Now that I think about it, I don't think I've been in a situation where I feel uncomfortable enough to feel the need to "speak for myself", but I know that self-advocacy is not only about that. Sure, I am sometimes assigned work that it's not always the most entertaining thing to do, but it is what it is. Every time I have a question I ask without hesitating, same thing when I need help with something. I know that if you really want to do quality work you are somehow going to need help, wether it's feedback or asking someone for a hand.
Self-advocacy is something that is immediately noticed in the working environment here at the Women's Museum. It's a really small team consisting mostly of volunteers and interns. We are all learning and we all have questions. But we also help run the museum so of course we have ideas and different ways to contribute to the museum, and everyone is open to hear our ideas. Everyone says what they have to say in a very casual way. There is no competing for who has the best idea, it's all about all coming together and collaborating to create something big.
At first I remember feeling awkward when asking for a break or to go to the restroom or questions in general, but then I realized that it's not that big of a deal. I know this all sounds silly, but if you are a High School student you would understand. We are used to ask for permission for everything but in a working space you can do whatever you want as long as 1) you respect others, 2) finish your work and 3) make yourself useful.
I definitely see myself working on this type of environment in the future. Something casual, where people have the confidence to speak their minds and the team is close enough to share their thoughts.
Self-advocacy is something that is immediately noticed in the working environment here at the Women's Museum. It's a really small team consisting mostly of volunteers and interns. We are all learning and we all have questions. But we also help run the museum so of course we have ideas and different ways to contribute to the museum, and everyone is open to hear our ideas. Everyone says what they have to say in a very casual way. There is no competing for who has the best idea, it's all about all coming together and collaborating to create something big.
At first I remember feeling awkward when asking for a break or to go to the restroom or questions in general, but then I realized that it's not that big of a deal. I know this all sounds silly, but if you are a High School student you would understand. We are used to ask for permission for everything but in a working space you can do whatever you want as long as 1) you respect others, 2) finish your work and 3) make yourself useful.
I definitely see myself working on this type of environment in the future. Something casual, where people have the confidence to speak their minds and the team is close enough to share their thoughts.