While I know that pure praise is not very good constructive criticism, I’m hard-pressed to think of anything that could be done better than this year’s distanced summer institute! The information sessions were incredibly helpful, and doubly so since they can be recorded and saved for later. The ePortfolio presentation by Dr. DiScala in particular did a lot to demystify an intimidating process. I had not yet seen the standards spreadsheet that we would have to fill in to show which standards our artifacts displayed mastery of. Having the concrete data and goals goes a long way towards soothing anxiety. The example ePortfolio shown was also a good choice–sometimes when you choose the ‘above and beyond’ kind of example, it can really create a false impression of what standards need to be met. The chosen ePortfolio was exactly what it needed to be, and greatly clarified my vision of what needed to be done.

Out of the asynchronous exhibits, my favorite was the History of Books Flipsnack. Not only am I extremely intrigued by the class, I was over the moon to see a fellow cross-stitcher with a cross-stitch book! Brava, Katie Luehrs, I am in awe of your adorable creation. My only sadness is that I probably can’t take this elective due to time constraints, even if it is offered again. It’s always the fun ones you have to give up.

The meet and greet sessions were a fun way to get to know the students in the program who entered at different times than I did. All I can say is that I applaud those who can take classes, work, take care of family, AND found an ALA chapter all at the same time. Their powers are awesome and mysterious.

Overall, I found the Summer Institute extremely fun and informative. I will definitely be attending next summer, whether at a distance or (hopefully) finally in person again!