Journal Post 2

The Highland Park Ford Plant, in my opinion, was a building with one of the greatest impacts on our built environment today. Built in 1910 by famous architect Albert Kahn, it soon became a National Historic Landmark based on its early American production facility for the Model T automobile. The Plant was constructed with spacious design, setting precedent for many factories and production plants built in coming years. It was the first facility to utilize the moving assembly line, drastically improving production time of the Model T. Not only did the plant set forth new processes for manufacturing, but it created well-paid jobs as well as developed inexpensive products for Americans. Buildings all around the country still exist today as models of Albert Kahn’s project, such as the McCracken Power Plant in Columbus. Similar to Highland Park Ford Plant, the McCracken Power Plant is constructed with reinforced concrete with multiple floors. Both were constructed as complexes to include offices and factories in a spacious way with numerous windows to allow in natural light. Of the many great architects listed in this documentary, Ieoh Ming Pei was one worth noting as well. This Chinese born architect incorporated unique geometric forms and Chinese inspirations into his projects. His National Center for Atmospheric Research in Colorado is one of his most impressive works, as well as other prestigious government and acclaimed sites throughout the world.

Welcome Week Post

The Ohio State University has always caught my eye. As a well-known university, it has a lot to offer. Within the first week, I met numerous people all of which contained large amounts of buckeye pride. The campus became home in a matter of days. Welcome week encompassed many large events, all of which excelled at connecting me with opportunities outside of the classroom. Whether it be the involvement fair or buckeye frenzy, I was able to explore the many options the university offers. A tour of Columbus gave a fantastic initial view of the campus and city I’ll hopefully be spending the next four years in.

Within the first week of classes I was introduced to the courses I’d be taking and the schedule I’d be functioning on. Classes were as expected, conducted in large lecture halls with a number of other people. Paying attention to the professor is key in staying on top of homework, labs, and classwork. Much of the work is done online, which is difficult to maneuver at first. A lot different than high school, it took some getting used to. At home, most days were similar in relation to my schedule but here every day is different. Adjustment from my house to my dorm hasn’t been that problematic. With support from your friends and family, converging into the college lifestyle was surprisingly simple.

Overall, my expectations were lived up to within my first couple weeks as a student. I have several opportunities to get involved around campus and have gotten connected with many resources. In a matter of weeks, I’ve gained new friendships left and right. I look forward to the future here as an Ohio State Buckeye!