Here is a set of photographs I took what feels like a million years ago.  While visiting New Orleans for photography field studies I was able to capture these shots of a street performance. The crew of interesting and unique individuals was so engaging for me.  I kinda wish I had captured who they were and what drew them out that day but at the time I was a shy Iowa girl who was kinda terrified I would upset people by taking their photo. 

Now I look back and I love seeing what my younger eyes saw in people and the connection between the lights and darks...my ability to compose a shot.  I may begin practicing with these methods again.  I need to go on more adventures though.  Maybe I will bring a buddy though cause adventures usually end up with a story where I wish I had adventured with protection. hahaha 

As part of knocking down my first year as a Assistant Professor, I was presented with a fantastic chance to engage in a wonderful volunteer opportunity.  I was asked to attend a meeting at the Shreveport Memorial Library downtown with a few of my co-workers to see if we would be interested in teaching Girls who Code.  

Girls Who Code's mission is to close the gender gap in technology.  It started out small in New York and has traveled the nation to have roughly 40,000 girls registered for the program across all 50 states. 

At first I was a little anxious about the program because I personally am not as knowledgeable when it comes to coding. I decided though that most of my learning experiences happened by jumping with both feet into something.  You can't be expected to make a difference by staying home.  There were times where I didn't want to go, but it was because I didn't see my impact on the group.  It was later when the girls began to be so excited to see me. Some of the girls a few weeks ago asked me to return next year.  They said they liked having me as a teacher.  This meant so much to me.  I may not have been able to help with the coding aspect as much as I wanted to but I had made them want to return.  

One of the mothers told me last week that one of the girls loves coming this year because we have made the program so much more fun and engaging.  

I learned so much from these girls. They come to class ready to learn even though they have just spent the entire day in class learning and dealing with life in high school.  Some days the giggling may get a little out of hand but they have had nothing but respect for each other and the instructors.  I was proud to be a part of this program.  Who knows? I may return next year.