Exceeding Expectations - Shocker Snapshots

A common theme I’ve noticed after running this intergenerational project for six semesters is the sense of trepidation that comes with the first session. It isn’t exactly fear, but more the uncertainty of stepping into the unknown - meeting a stranger, and not just any stranger, but someone who is decades older. While I grew up surrounded by grandparents and was witness to many positive aging experiences, I recognize that isn't everyone's story. It's very likely that some of the freshmen in the room have had very little interaction with generations beyond their own parents. It's a common admission; they don't know how to engage with someone that much older. But here they are, stepping outside of their comfort zone, learning how to capture a complete stranger's legacy. And don't assume it's just the students who feel this way. Some of the storytellers admit to their own nervousness coming into the first day as well. But you know what is beautiful? That all melts away - the trepidation, the uncertainty -

even after just one hour. Students and storytellers alike report feelings of unease and awkwardness give way to comfort after the first session. Those communication barriers and stereotypes that we believe of different generations - they disappear. What is left are new connections that we never saw coming. And that is the beauty behind Connecting Generations.

"When I first met my storyteller, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I felt a little nervous and didn’t know if the conversation would flow easily but once we started talking, I felt more comfortable, and I was surprised by how easy it was to connect."

"I was afraid – since I haven’t had much contact with older adults – that she wouldn’t be welcoming or would judge me immediately. However, she was kind and asked questions about me. Communicating with the older adults was an experience that I didn’t expect. For my storyteller, I found it was more like speaking to a peer than someone who could very possibly be a mentor to me."

"My initial reaction to meeting my storyteller was intimidated. I felt this way because at first, he seemed hard to read but that feeling quickly went away."

"Going into this I wasn't sure what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised. I loved interaction and communicating with the older adults, and overall, I found everything very enjoyable."