Author Archive for Evan Sarkisian

More in mind

Published by
Evan Sarkisian
on October 15, 2007 | Solar Decathlon 2 Comments

Today the team was hit hard by the architecture contest. We arrived to the site and Alberto told us the bad news- 18th place, 60 points behind the leader. After all the hard work and the immense amount of positive public responses, we had started to think the jurors would love our house. But their scores didn’t reflect a deep appreciation.

There are plenty of reasons I could come up with to justify their decisions- many of which comfort me –but I don’t think comfort makes the situation any better. It certainly wouldn’t get any more points on the board.

How to make the situation better? LOOK AROUND!

-We’re on the National Mall making history.

-THOUSANDS of people love our house. LOVE our house. I wish we could compile all the positive things people have said to the team and to their friends. It would be a massive list with some statements our team really needs to hear right now.

-THOUSANDS of people have already learned from our house. We are shaping their lives as well as the lives of the people they touch. We have served as conduits for the spread of public awareness about solar power and sustainability in general.

 

Yeah, we didn’t get a group of architects to fall in love with our project, I have to accept that. But how much should we value marks on a piece of paper, when compared with the great effect we are having on the world? I am personally incredibly proud of the work my team has accomplished, and every day my admiration for my fellow team members is strengthened.

Today our spirits were tested against the threat of defeat, and I saw a team more than capable. I watched as long faces turned up with dedication to a cause. Not one person gave up or lost a step. We tackled our tours with the energy and excitement our house deserves, we strategized for our next moves, and we even played improvisation games late into the night.

This competition is revealing each and every day of the fact that our education has shaped all parts of our beings. And our goals of reaching out and touching the public are succeeding on a daily basis—on a massive scale.

These are points that- no matter how hard you try – will never fit on a leader board.

Busy/Fun/Busy

Published by
Evan Sarkisian
on October 11, 2007 | Solar Decathlon 4 Comments

The mall was buzzing today as we all excitedly put the finishing touches on our houses. The Santa Clara team was optimistic, and for good reason. We passed our final inspection, one of the first five teams to do so, and the culmination of all our hard work is approaching.

Meghan and I earned baller status today. We developed, planned and executed a great idea in the course of a day. Some of the other teams have these neat dislpays on the walkways up to their houses. We thought that would be a perfect addition to our house and we got them printed that day! We owe a great many thanks to Ken at Affordable Signs and Banners and his willingness to work with us.

We got the signs just in time for the Event Sponsors Tours. Meghan and I were clearly underdressed so we decided to check out the other houses. They were truly amazing. Some of the building integrated photovoltaic systems were cleverly designed, and made for some unique architectural features.

The BP hosted a large gala event for all the teams and event sponsors. We were wined and dined and told how awesome we are (which is pretty awesome). There was a live band and some of the best desserts I’ve had in a long time. The Comm. Team had to roll out early as we have a lot more work tonight before the public tours tomorrow.

Wish us luck

Amazement on Arrival

Published by
Evan Sarkisian
on October 11, 2007 | Solar Decathlon 0 Comments

After an extended visit (and by that I mean layover) in Dallas Fort Worth I finally arrived in DC, and I could smell the Solar Decathlon from the airport. When I stepped out of the metro BAM! there’s the Solar Decathlon fully pumping with energy (solar and young persons’). I can’t wait to meet all the other teams and hear their stories!

I got to our house and I was floored…bamboo floored! All puns aside, our team is amazing! You can see the hours of serious work they have all put into the ripple home. I walked inside and I thought “How can I trick them into letting me live here?” Now I have to try to earn my keep! I got long nights ahead of me, and I can’t wait.

I hugged and congratulated all the team members who made it all happen. Agustin told me how the house has been passing inspection after inspection with flying colors. All the hours of work and worrying have paid off! Tomorrow we face the fire inspection, and I think we’ve got it nailed.

We speak to representatives from Congress tomorrow…gotta get our game faces on.

-Evan Sarkisian