Julie Keyser

Who was your community partner, and can you describe the project objectives?

Our community partner was the Edmonton Institution for Women. In this class we set out to create a newsletter that was representative of each student in the classroom and the classroom community as a whole.

What was the biggest takeaway from your CSL project?

It was beautiful to see the individual contributions of my fellow students take shape. Through this project, we had multiple ways to express ourselves — through both group and individual contributions. We also had the opportunity to submit not just one, but several pieces that were meaningful to us. The finished newsletter is a symbolic depiction of what a community is, how it comes together, and the immense value each of our stories, perspectives, and interpretations has in the world.

This class reinforced the importance of fundamental human expression and connection in the ways of laughing together, playing games, making small talk, creating art, and sharing a meal together. These elements of expression and connection are core to who we are as people. A world absent of these would lack what makes life rich and worth living.

How can you apply any newly gained knowledge and skills to your future endeavors?

The course learnings were a reminder of the importance of human connection and expression — that regardless of our differences there are core ways to connect that are so intrinsic to who we are as people. It's easy to be overwhelmed or distracted in a technologically-driven world abounding with social media. This class stripped away those complexities and distractions to remind students of the critical components of human connection. The unique learning environment and course materials imparted such a special memory that I am honoured to be a part of.

Why should students consider being involved with CSL?

CSL is an experience like no other. It is an opportunity to take yourself out of the classroom and embed yourself in the community to learn alongside students who are passionate and curious learners. Not only are students challenged by the course materials, they are challenged by the novelty of the environment. The course takes you on a journey of self reflection where you contemplate what the definition of community and connection are in your life and how they manifest in your everyday.