Pearly Kim

Pearly Kim

Compared to the actual map, the relative positions of the buildings and sites I labeled on the map are close to being accurate, but the scales and relative sizes are quite off. The most notable differences are the relative sizes of different blocks, roads, and buildings. Other key differences are the shapes of buildings and the curvature and presence of roads. These inaccuracies were expected because I am usually a destination oriented person—I only pay attention to WHERE I’m going, and thus do not put much effort to remembering either the pathway or the shape and size of the destination. In addition, I am not a driver, and this makes my memory of Harvard very pedestrian-centered. I am not as aware of where the roads end, at what angle they intersect, or how they curve. During this assignment, I recalled the roads by remembering where I had to cross them. Another interesting discovery I made is that it was harder to recall the academic side of campus compared to Harvard Square. Hurrying in between classes seems to be more detrimental in establishing a mental map than leisurely walking to my favorite restaurant. From these observations, it can be concluded that how we use and relate to a city determines how we interpret and remember the city. I, as a student and pedestrian, have a focus on pedestrian paths, academic buildings, public transportations and food. These are the parts of the city that I expose myself to, and as a result, is what consists of my personalized experience of Harvard.