Reflections on Organizing a Seasonal School: A Postdoc's Journey
The Idea Takes Flight: Starting the Adventure
Embarking on the journey of organizing a seasonal school for doctoral candidates in environmental and sustainability education was an adventure filled with highs, lows, and invaluable lessons. It all began in the fall of 2022 when I reached out to Dr. Elsa Lee, the network convenor of the ▶ EERA's NW 30 (Environmental and Sustainability Education Research), with the idea of collaboration. After several online meetings and securing funding through Module 1 of the Connecting Young Scientists (ConYS) funding scheme for short-term journeys of postdocs, I found myself in Cambridge in the spring of 2023, laying the groundwork for what would become a memorable experience – the planning and hosting of a ▶ 4-day seasonal school on transformative learning in sustainability for 25 doctoral students from across the globe.
"I found the opening exercise really powerful, being asked to physically select something relating to your project and then write through it."
Participant of the Seasonal School
Hurdles and Growth: Learning the Ropes
Upon returning from Cambridge, I applied for and received approval for funding via Module 3 of ConYS, as well as additional network funding from EERA with Elsa. The subsequent planning phase was a whirlwind of logistical challenges and personal growth. With the support of my co-host Elsa and my participation in a professional learning option from KHYS on project management in the academic system, we navigated the complexities of crafting an engaging and impactful program.
"This process taught me a great deal about my own work process, cultural sensitivity, and the importance of patience."
Olivia Wohlfart
Connecting the Dots: Finding Experts and Students
The planning became even more challenging as we began searching for and contacting potential expert speakers and tutors to join us for the seasonal school. Elsa's previous experience in organizing such an event was invaluable, and her expertise and network helped secure esteemed speakers like Prof. Dr. Alan Reid from Monash University in Australia and Dr. Jonas Lysgaard from Aarhus University in Denmark. The addition of Sarah Strachan, a transdisciplinary artist, added a unique dimension to our program. I was also fortunate to have a student assistant who helped with numerous tasks in the preparation.
Once the program was finalized and applications opened, a new challenge arose: selecting the participants. With 47 applicants for a planned cohort of 20, the task was daunting. After careful consideration and rearrangement of our budget, we were able to accept 25 participants from 13 countries, each bringing diverse perspectives and focus points to the table. To foster a sense of community and prepare participants for the event, we organized virtual Meet & Greet sessions, and from that day on, I was certain that we would spend a vibrant and positive time together in Karlsruhe.
In addition to the academic content, I really wanted the participants to experience the charm of Karlsruhe. Thus, I allocated some energy to planning and organizing a social evening in the Kulturküche as well as a sustainability stroll through Karlsruhe's eastern part, capped off with a delightful pizza evening at Fettschmelze. After months of hard work and over 700 emails, May arrived and with it, the speakers and participants.
The Big Day: Bringing It All Together
As the seasonal school unfolded, I witnessed everything falling into place seamlessly. Participants arrived punctually, and the atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and positivity. I was especially honored that Prof. Dr. Wanner – Vice-President Higher Education and Academic Affairs of the KIT – officially welcomed the participants and speakers to our university and city. The days were packed and full of discussions, feedback and reflection (▶ program). After four long days and nights, I was rewarded with expressions of deep gratitude and tearful goodbyes, and a strong sense of fulfillment. Looking back today, the organization of the seasonal school was more than a successfully managed project; it was a transformative experience that will come to be an important landmark on the journey along the pathway of my career. It underscored the importance of collaboration and meticulous planning, and it reaffirmed my passion for fostering meaningful learning experiences and encounters, which has changed how I work in the future. I am looking forward to reflecting on some of these experiences in Manchester this September at the ▶ BERA Conference 2024 and WERA Focal Meeting where I will present findings from the accompanying research study on “Transforming Transformation in Environmental Sustainability Education - Insights from a Global Seasonal School for Early-Career Academics” together with Elsa.
"Literally the best, most beneficial thing for someone like me who just entered the field of academia."
Participant of the Seasonal School