2020: Note 44 - A Grown Up School Friend

For the past couple of months, I've been taking virtual classes in Diversity & Inclusion via eCornell. I registered for the program because I expected to learn a lot about the field that would help me in my current and future work. I also anticipated learning from the other students, via the online discussion board. Happily, the program met these expectations.

What I hoped for but didn't count on was being able to make a connection that would continue beyond our temporary, virtual classroom.

When each class starts, everyone introduces themselves. One woman had a video from a regional TedX Talk about implicit bias. I was so impressed by her talk. For me, this wasn't new subject matter, but the way she covered it was compelling. I knew she was someone I wanted to get to know better.

During one of the call-in sessions, the two of us exchanged messages on the side and agreed to meet up separately. We recently had a video meeting and had an easy connection. And, what a bonus -- she has a PR background and gave me some advice about being more active in my professional social media.

I was recently talking with a young person about what it's like to make friends at school when it's virtual and you're pretty far along in your career. My answer: it's the same. You gravitate toward people who make insightful observations, share common interests and seem nice.

Lucky me, eCornell has given me more than I expected! I'm grateful for my new friend and what she has already taught me!