The Process

Let's dive right in! This page is dedicated to verbalizing my sometimes confusing and extensive thought process throughout these experiments. I think that to understand the end product thoroughly, it's essential to understand the process, so here we are!

The Details

When introduced to what would eventually lead to three distinct and dynamic experiments, we were asked to select an "origin piece." This "origin piece" was supposed to be a sample of writing that we maybe had not touched or thought about in some time yet still felt quite passionate about or interested in learning more.

After taking some time, as I am rather indecisive, I finally landed on a mini-essay I wrote called "An Abundance of Katherines." This mini-essay was part of my various essays for college admissions. I wrote about a topic near and dear to my heart, my name, and all of its wonderful and not-so-wonderful implications. Even though I wouldn't think of changing my name now, I was definitely over its simplicity and lack of uniqueness during high school. I felt a common name automatically meant a common individual, and I wasn't ready to accept my fate immediately.

As I read over and re-analyzed my "origin piece, I picked out the essential details and feelings that I thought were appropriate to incorporate into my new experiments.

Experiment #1

A First Attempt At Poetry

For experiment #1, I decided to tackle the genre of poetry. As I am not well-versed in this genre, experiment #1 definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone. I decided to start this daunting task by doing some research and, of course, reading some poetry. After a couple of days, I felt familiar enough to decide that I wanted my poem to be long-form and not follow any real rhyme scheme. I felt that in order to truly showcase the story I wanted to tell, I should avoid following any potential restrictions that are involved with other forms of poetry.

All in all, with experiment #1, I was able to have a unique experience and push myself as a writer to try something new. I really enjoyed researching and learning about a new genre, especially since I have always been interested in the world of Poetry.

Experiment #2

Getting Chatty On The Internet

For experiment #2, I decided to flip the switch and try podcasting. I thought this new podcasting genre would allow me to be a bit more informal and express myself more creatively. As for this genre, I was more familiar with it from the beginning as I occasionally listen to various pop culture or story-time podcasts. Still, I thought doing some extra research couldn't hurt, and I asked some of my friends what kinds of podcasts they enjoyed and why. After gathering a few fan favorites like Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain, Call Her Daddy with Alex Cooper, The Broski Report with Brittany Broski, Normal Gossip, and Miss Congeniality with Eli Rallo. All of these podcasts do an exemplary job of keeping their audiences entertained and involved in the discussion.

After familiarizing myself with some of the top charting podcasts in the country, I got a sense of how I wanted my podcast to be set up. I wanted to do a co-hosted podcast with my best friend and roommate (also named Katherine) and let the oversharing begin. I think staying true to our personalities and aesthetics was essential for this podcast, as it allowed it to be unique and genuine.