Thursday, March 21, 2013

Senior Project New Ideas

I've decided, barring an inability to execute any other idea; that my original plan of building and RC helicopter with a camera mount just isn't the best fit for the guidelines of Senior Project. I realize its' late in the process, but I'm hopeful I can catch up with some extra work. I've got two new ideas I want to discuss with my adviser tomorrow. 

Idea A: I'm a huge mountain biker. For a long time I've been on the mailing list of all these organizations that work to keep mountain biking trails open, from both a basic logistical and political perspective. Many mountain biking areas around the bay area come into constant conflict with local residents and hikers over the effects bikers have on the soil and ambiance. I know many of these organizations are under-funded and under-staffed, so I'm hopeful I could get a position with one of them. I could study the actual effects of mountain biking on natural habitats, and incorporate my interests in film by shooting a short promotional video for the organization at the end of my time. (I was inspired by this: https://vimeo.com/32192929, a film produced when there was proposed California legislation to close a number of state parks)

Idea B: I'm passionate about sports, especially college basketball. I've always said one of my dream jobs would be to work in the front office of a professional sports team. Last year I know Chris Banh got a position at USF, (not entirely sure what it was) and of course now Mr. Whitmore works for the athletic department. I'd love to try and get a similar internship in the athletic department. I could explore the relationship between athletics and academics at the highest level, or the allocation of athletic funds at a major university. 

Friday, March 8, 2013

Senior Project Developments

I'm at the research stage in my project. I've got a multiple page long list of accumulated links and general resources that I really need to start digging into. I'll probably spend the next few weeks on that, and just more general research. One exciting revelation so far is a relatively simple guide to DIY training wheels for my helicopter. A potential future obstacle in my project is crashing or breaking my helicopter in my early attempts to fly it. This should help. I also want to meet again with Meghan and Tom to discuss details and future plans.