Name: Katie Konrath
Age: 23
Right now, I'm a graduate student studying at the University of Malta's Institute of Thinking for a Master's degree in Creativity and Innovation.
I started my involvement in creativity as a 12 year old competing in first the Odyssey of the Mind and later the Destination Imagination creative problem-solving competitions. In the 8 years I participated in these programs, I fell in love with using my mind to solve problems and think of creative solutions. I also enjoyed the emphasis on teamwork (some of my best friends now are from DI) and the intense time-pressure we worked under. Finishing my competition years with a couple successful appearances at the World Finals competition didn't hurt either!
As a undergraduate student at Luther College, I continued learning about creativity under Professor Tim Schweizer. He exposed me to both TRIZ and Edward de Bono's methodologies, and successfully urged me to consider post-graduate studies in Malta.
My focus for my studies here, how the world is changing and the effect on young people just about to enter the workforce, was inspired by my own struggles to find a major that would keep me engaged in college AND provide a solid foundation for my later life.
Wow Katie, that's quite a major you have there. You are destined to change the world, so don't EVER give up! If I can ever be of any assistance, please let me know!
Posted by: Phil Gerbyshak | August 30, 2006 at 09:36 PM
Hi Katie!
Your story on perseverance was very inspiring. I will remember your examples the next time I run into obstacles.
Raul
Posted by: Raul De la Vega | August 18, 2006 at 07:02 AM
Katie,
Thanks for sharing your project with the world! I lived the same life of major change and find your quest/research intriguing.
I am forwarding this to Ruth Kath who is in charge of the vocation program. since this might be of interest to her as well.
Good luck and hope to see you around the island. Uwe
Posted by: Uwe Rudolf | February 28, 2006 at 12:22 PM