It is hard to believe that it is already Day 18 of Shad Valley. The past few weeks have been flying by faster than anyone would ever want them to. House projects are in full swing, reality is starting to hit us, and life-long friendships have been forged. Shad Valley has indescribable effects that no words can do justice. My only description is that, to feel the Shad Valley feeling, it is necessary to experience it.
Today our bright and early morning, with the gorgeous Halifax sun, started with a lecture by Shelley Hessian and Nick Ksiezopolski on business pitches. This was extremely helpful considering that many of us, myself included, have never given a business pitch before, and now we know what to expect. The tips and preparation advice calmed down our tingling nerves because, after all, in less than a week, we are presenting our products to judges.
In order to give us more preparation, there was another morning lecture from Tukan Das who has firsthand experience giving business pitches, and innovating. He created a company, Lead Sift, to utilize social media for targeted advertising. Both of these lectures were completely enthralling and captivating.
As the day wore on to our afternoon activities, we switched our science brains on with a chemistry lecture on "The Role of Material Research in Your Life" by Mary Ann White. This was an eye-opening lecture about the periodic elements and the different ways that they are integrated into our life. We learned about the advances in televisions, footwear, clothing, metals and more. In the end, and many Shads would say a highlight, Mary Ann made us frozen strawberry yogurt using liquid nitrogen. It was delicious!
Overall Shad Valley Dalhousie has been an amazing experience so far, and I know that the memories and the learning will continue until the end.
Lauren Wilson, Shad Valley Dalhousie 2012
