On Thursday, the Makerspace was bustling at Cal State Monterey Bay (CSUMB) during a Paper Otter Lantern Workshop, designed to bring Otters together for creativity and fun.
Last semester, the Makerspace faced significant challenges due to receiving only half of its requested funding, resulting in reduced hours and limited access for students. Despite these setbacks, the space remained a resource for hundreds of visitors each week.
While there has been little to no progress in securing additional funding for this semester, the space continues to prove itself as one of the busiest spots on campus. “We hope to increase visits from students across all departments to offer opportunities for creative expression,” said Alissa Lund, the Makerspace coordinator. “Whether or not that aligns with their academic focus, the Makerspace is here to provide a creative outlet for everyone.”
With around 103 registered attendees, the Otter Lantern Workshop, which ran from 2 to 5 p.m., sold out the week it was announced. The event appeared to be a hit among students who participated in crafting their own paper otter lanterns. The workshop was designed to offer a creative outlet and a break from the routine, with attendees learning to create charming and functional lanterns using basic crafting materials.
The workshop was put on by the Alumni Association and hosted by the Makerspace in celebration of Welcome Week.
“It’s Otter Days and we want students to feel welcome in their new home,” said Director of Alumni and Donor Relations Vincent LoForti. “Our main goal is just engaging students. Keeping them engaged and letting them know that they are future alumni and they can give back to campus after they go. It’s to inform future Otters on Admitted Otter Day.”
The Makerspace is designed to serve as a cross-campus hub where students, staff and faculty have free access to a variety of tools, materials and educational opportunities. From laser printers and 3D printers to simple circuits and heat presses, the Makerspace offers a range of resources designed to support diverse projects and learning experiences.
“I’m really looking forward to pushing the manufacturing side of things.” Fourth-year student assistant Edward Leon urges students to take advantage of the opportunities presented at the Makerspace. “Such as encouraging students to make little meeples of their OCs (original characters), or to check out making little keychains using the laser cutter!” Leon says, “So, I will be here on Thursdays helping with things like laser cutting.”
The workshop was a testament to the Makerspace’s ongoing commitment to providing valuable resources and experiences for students, even amidst financial constraints.
The Makerspace will officially reopen on Sept. 9 with a new, more limited, schedule for the semester. It will be open from 2-5 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Additionally, First Year Experience and Second Year Experience (FYE/SYE) workshops will be held every other Thursday from 2-4 p.m., starting Sept. 7. These workshops are an opportunity for first-year and second-year students to engage with the Makerspace and develop new skills. This series of workshops and collaborative sessions throughout the semester is open to all members of CSUMB.
Coordinator Alissa Lund emphasized, “And if someone has an idea for a workshop for a skill or craft they would like to offer, let’s chat!”— highlighting the Makerspace’s values of collaboration and its commitment to providing resources and support for creative initiatives across campus.
Any who wish to support the Makerspace are encouraged by members to come by whenever they can, continue showing up to events and workshops and advocate for the Makerspace to administer when they can. The Makerspace also accepts supply donations from any clubs or organizations.
“Please be vocal on social media and spread the word! Take pictures of your crafts and tag us! The more we can get together to show interest in the Makerspace, the higher the chance we can get more funding in the future!” Leon encourages students.
For those interested in taking advantage of these resources and events, be sure to visit the Makerspace following Sep. 9 or check them out online here.