\nMy perception of my co-workers hasn\u2019t wavered. To me they are as awe-inspiring as ever. They\u2019ve got so much going on outside of work, but put in extra time before and after our business hours. I can tell they\u2019re excited about what they\u2019re doing and truly committed. They\u2019ve confirmed my desire to work in such a strong team, but I found myself more interested in other issues (often unrelated to energy sources \u2013 the water shutoffs in Detroit were particularly horrifying and fascinating).<\/p>\n
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<\/a>Fortunately, I have learned my way around both Ferndale and Detroit a little more. I also have a better understanding of southeast Michigan as a place. I drove to 17 different stations and departments yesterday and it gave me a much better sense of where I live. Our state is truly beautiful and the CBRP deepened my appreciation of it. While conducting outreach I was surprised to find so many people promoting renewable energy and interested in green alternatives. I was skeptical that such a community existed in Michigan, but I\u2019m glad I was mistaken. Finally, I\u2019ve gotten a better sense of my desired career path. I don\u2019t mind the sometimes gradual pace of non-profit work (there\u2019s definitely no instant gratification), but I would love a job where I\u2019m walking around interacting with the community a little more, rather than just speaking with businessmen.<\/p>\n As I predicted ten weeks ago, my expectations for myself fell short. I don\u2019t think I transformed myself into a totally efficient, focused employee, but now I know what I have to do to be that person. I\u2019m fortunate to have several different role-models to help \u2013 it\u2019s not that my co-workers aren\u2019t stressed out by work – they\u2019re just able to manage it well and persevere. I will strive to apply that philosophy and ethic to my schoolwork this year.<\/p>\n My expectations for the project were a little different too. We had to change course and hold an outreach event rather than approach people individually. I hope this approach helps the REO get the data they need! I\u2019m still wondering whether I\u2019m to blame for a lack of data or if people are sometimes just unresponsive.<\/p>\n Overall, I had high hopes for the program and they were absolutely met and even exceeded. The seminars were engaging and have helped me reflect on possible career paths. I\u2019m looking into more non-profit work or urban planning. The CBRP reignited my love of the environment and has encouraged me to take more environmental and sustainability classes this year. This program and working with Metro Matters \/ the REO helped me grow as an individual and learn more about myself, Michigan and (perhaps most importantly) Detroit.<\/p>\n<\/a>