Class 22

Turning Problems into Possibilities: A Team Brainstorming Experience

The exercise we did in class today was wonderful. I enjoy a creative challenge and it made it even more fun to be put together with a group to solve a problem. This time, I did not volunteer to be the group leader and it was a nice change to not be leading every conversation. At first, I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure what direction we’d go in. It’s easy to notice problems, but coming up with realistic, thoughtful solutions in a group setting (with people you may or may not know well) was a whole new experience. But surprisingly, once we sat down and started talking, the ideas started to flow.

In the first group I was put into, something clicked almost immediately. There was this shared feeling among us that the campus, while beautiful and functional, didn’t always feel like the best place to get schoolwork done. Yes, we have classrooms and a library, but what about those in-between spaces? The areas where you’re waiting between classes or just need a change of scenery to boost your productivity? That’s when the idea came to life—and it turned out to be my favorite one from the entire class.

Our proposal was simple but powerful: use the fictional funding to make the campus more comfortable and welcoming for academic work. We envisioned cozy corners with armchairs and small tables, outdoor seating with shade and Wi-Fi, study pods scattered around campus, and even hammocks or beanbags in quiet green spaces. The goal wasn’t just about adding furniture—it was about creating an atmosphere where students actually wanted to stay and study.

We talked about how physical comfort and environment have such a huge impact on mental clarity and motivation. Imagine walking across campus and instead of seeing just concrete benches or empty lawns, you see thoughtfully designed areas that invite you to take a break, open your laptop, or collaborate with classmates. It’s those small touches—soft lighting, comfy chairs, accessible outlets—that can turn a basic campus into a space that truly supports student success.

What made this brainstorming session even better was the way everyone brought something to the table. One teammate suggested looking into sustainable furniture to align with our campus’s green initiatives. Another brought up the idea of working with student artists to design murals or creative touches in these study spaces, making each one feel unique and reflective of our school culture. We even considered the logistics—where the furniture would go, how it would be maintained, and how to make sure the spaces were inclusive and accessible to all students.

What I loved most about this activity was how it shifted our perspective. Instead of passively accepting the way things are, we were encouraged to imagine how they could be. We weren't just students in a classroom—we were problem-solvers, change-makers, and collaborators. Even though the money wasn’t real and the changes won’t happen tomorrow, the exercise made me realize how much power we have when we come together to tackle a problem with purpose and creativity.

By the end of class, we had heard several other group ideas and it was inspiring to see how diverse and thoughtful the solutions were. But my favorite idea still remains the one my first group came up with. Maybe it's because I can vividly picture it. Maybe it’s because I’ve personally longed for more cozy spots to read or study between classes. Or maybe it’s just the fact that it was born out of such a collaborative, honest discussion. This session reminded me how valuable it is to listen, to share, and to imagine. And maybe, just maybe, some of these "fake scenario" ideas could become real one day.