My time this year as a DHA has truly opened my eyes to the world of Digital Humanities. Before becoming a DHA, I had only a blurry understanding of what Digital Humanities was as a field of study and practice. Through this experience, however, I have gained a much deeper recognition towards the ways technology, data, and communication interplay to create engaging works that integrate new styles from traditional humanities. Working and collaborating with such an amazing group of staff has transformed my perspective of digital humanities and digital scholarship – and has strengthened my understanding
Throughout the year, I had the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects that helped me develop both technical and collaborative skills. I contributed to Omeka metadata work, and I spent a significant amount of time creating and editing WordPress websites – such as some of Carleton’s official blogs as well as blogs for different history classes. This has given me a greater understanding of web design, user experience, and how digital platforms shape the way information is presented and understood.
In addition, I was able to continue fine-tuning my skills in ArcGIS and digital mapping – such as the Migration and Mobility mapping project. I have become more confident in using spatial data and visualization tools to communicate information in engaging ways.
One of the most exciting outcomes of my time as a DHA is that I was selected to develop my own Digital Humanities project this summer at Vassar College’s Ctrl-Alt-Delete Retreat. This opportunity would not have been possible without the mentorship and encouragement, I gained throughout this year. Being a DHA has given me the confidence to pursue larger independent projects and has shown me how Digital Humanities can be used as a powerful tool for research, communication, and creativity.
Overall, this year has been incredibly rewarding both academically and personally. I am grateful for everything I have learned, the people I have worked with, and the opportunities this position has opened for me. My experience as a DHA has not only introduced me to new technical skills, but has also fundamentally changed the way I think about scholarship, collaboration, and the role of digital communication in the humanities.
I would like to express my gratitude for all of my Digital Humanities staff including Austin Mason, Sarah Calhoun, Em Palencia, Wiebke Kuhn, and Ariel Kay. As well as my awesome DHA coworkers Nina and Zhoukai.
I am excited for what the future has in place for me this next coming year!
