By Precious Peter
“My satisfaction comes from the commitment to advancing a better world.” – Faye Wattleton.
With that being said, I am back at Create for the second semester, on guard for all the challenges about to come my way. So far, this term has been a bit hectic for me, however, there were some very enjoyable and memorable moments. My Create life, paired with my school life, has been overwhelming especially with exams around the corner, but still, I try to give adequate attention to both and continue to show my 100% interest. Essentially, I intend to improve on my late submissions thus far. Reasons for such include; my failure to utilize time wisely sometimes, and struggling to get some sleep.
To be back at create is indeed a great feeling especially when assigned an interesting project. The first project I worked on was ‘The evolution of dress in Dominica’. This involved digging deeper into how our present creole wear became what it is today, and how both the men and women’s creole wear have blossomed over time. The research looked at how the creole dress has moved from something so formal to simple and creative modernized styles. Also, when I was younger I was told that each wrap on top the creole headpiece had a different meaning but was never told what they meant. Now, I am fully aware what each on
e means and this indeed saves me from wearing the headpiece irresponsibly.
Currently, the second project I have been assigned to for this semester appeals strongly to my creative and artistic side. I am to put together sketches and creative pieces for our Create Caribbean ‘Coloring Book’ which would mostly appeal to children but will be something that would capture the eye of anyone. I really look forward to this project as it helps me to put my creative eye to work and allows my imagination to be explored.
Interestingly, I was also introduced to a course called Digital Humanities (DH). Though I do not actually take this course as one of my subjects at school, Dr. Esprit has more than welcomed me into her class to learn and be involved just as much as her students. With such a busy schedule, I try to find time to follow up on what the DH students are doing, as this, is a tremendous help in making me a more internet savvy individual. I believe that any digital or research fanatic should take such a course. It opens you up to so much information and provides knowledge on how to go about doing things digitally correct. For instance, proper citation, learning about archives and so much more.
Admittedly, it has certainly been a challenge to stay fully committed to, and punctual at, Create Caribbean Research Institute, especially trying to balance school, my painting hobby, and my other internship at Dominica National Council of Women (DNCW), but I am aware of the endless opportunities opened to me. In addition to that, I didn’t try so hard to get into this institution to just give up so easily, therefore I will continue this journey with my create family and friends. This is me CREATing a future which emanates from CREATivity!