My Erasmus Exchange Journey to Spain: Navigating Collaborative Waters

Life in Granada continues to be a whirlwind of engaging projects, cultural discoveries, and personal growth. Our team at Biomimicry Granada has taken up the cause of advocating for seahorse preservation, especially in the Mar Menor area of the Spanish coast, where seahorse sightings have dwindled to alarming numbers. Collaborating with a sister organization in Madrid and the Association Hippocampus, our collective mission is clear: to raise awareness about seahorse endangerment, advocate for their protection, and introduce the fascinating biology of seahorses. We aim to show people how truly unique these creatures are.

 

As the project gained momentum, so did our team. Working collaboratively, I found myself partnered with a colleague from Madrid to bring the visual content to life. This marked a shift from my usual solo work and introduced me to the dynamic world of group projects, with each member contributing their unique skills and perspectives.

The multi-team dynamics brought an unexpected richness to the creative process. Interacting with people who have diverse working styles, schedules, and communication methods opened my eyes to the art of collaboration. Adapting to this new environment, where ideas flowed and directions changed, became a valuable learning experience.

 

I have plenty of supervision while working, especially at home. 

 

In this collaborative project, I also found myself facing the intriguing interplay of Spanish working styles versus the familiar Finnish work culture. The Spanish approach, characterized by a more relaxed pace and emphasis on interpersonal connections, contrasted with the efficiency-focused, structured nature of Finnish work. Navigating this cultural difference became an interesting part of the project.

As the visual content took shape and our project moved forward, I delved into the art of self-evaluation. Learning when to assert my ideas and when to yield to the collaborative process has been a transformative learning curve. For someone accustomed to working independently, this experience has expanded my skills and deepened my understanding of group dynamics in a professional setting.

After staying in the office the Alhambra area serves beautiful views during a evening walk.