build IT (even) Better

Over the summer, the build IT makerspace in the San Diego State University Library got a significant overhaul, including new, upgraded 3D printers, new sewing and embroidery machines to to enhance build IT’s focus on the creative process and community building. 

Mariah Finley-Gardner, the build IT lab assistant, envisions the space as a 'third place' for students --- distinct from both home and school, an environment that inspires creativity. “A place where they can come, explore a wide variety of creative pursuits, find others who share their interests, and make friends,” she said.

To reflect this commitment she has suggested changing the name from “makerspace” to “creator space.”

“I came for the sewing machines and stayed for the community,” said mathematics and geography major Alex Prodan. 

The University Office of Well-being and Health Promotion tells students that staying engaged and maintaining good wellness habits, including taking time to relax, can improve a student’s well-being and help manage the stresses of college life. 

The build IT creator space is staffed by both student volunteers (called Master Builders) and student assistants, and Finley-Gardner and Sciences Librarian Jenny Wong-Welch. Master Builders volunteer three hours each week and get to shape the space, create new programs and enjoy special after-hours access. 

This year, build IT will host both regular and special events. The build IT website is the best place to get information about their events. The regular events currently scheduled include the following and everyone is welcome to attend:

• Restore and Create: Reclaim the joy of crafting in our everyday lives. Stop by and restore yourself through connection and creativity by making a craft. Happens every other week from 10 am - 5 pm.
• Find your Thing {craft}: Trying to find a new hobby? Want to learn something new or expand your knowledge of something you already enjoy? Each session will feature a new activity, allowing you to expand your creative horizons and meet like-minded creators with similar interests. Supplies are provided, take-home is expected, there is guided instruction, and no experience is required. 
• Game to Connect: Strategize your competitive nature by connecting with others through gameplay. Enjoy games in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where all levels of social energy are welcome. Games are provided, or you can bring your own. 

These new events are already proving popular. 

“With the Restore & Creates, I like how it gives a prompt that allows people to get creative with it - there is a structure that is not mandatory and allows for creative freedom.” said information systems major Max Benson Bonnell. “I like to work collaboratively, and the space encourages that. Seeing other people be creative makes me want to be creative.”

In addition to creative sessions, build IT continues to offer its 3D printing service, where users can send a 3D printing project that build IT staff will print for them. Recent projects include art projects and small figurines. Finley-Gardner notes that she keeps hoping someone sends in Dungeons and Dragons figures.  Finley-Gardner offers one-on-one “Idea to Project” consultation sessions for users who are unsure how to create their vision.

With all the new and upgraded equipment, all build IT general users (including previous users) must participate in orientation and training sessions on equipment they intend to use. These sessions teach how and why the equipment works, as well as how to safely use each piece. Wong-Welch notes that planning a creative project is an opportunity to expand students’ understanding of research and inquiry and that knowledge about both the creative process and equipment can be valuable in other areas of their lives. 

build IT is open to anyone with an active SDSU ID, including faculty and staff, as well as students at all levels. Current hours are 10 am - 5 pm, Monday - Friday. However, always check the website for changes in hours and new events.