Day of "Service"

On Saturday I joined Yale alumni for the Yale Day of Service. The plan was for Yale alumni to gather in groups with local entrepreneurs and to give them some advice. I was very skeptical. Simply because these people went to Yale and graduated in who-knows-what, they have something to offer the entrepreneurs? In three hours? I wanted to go meet people, but I really didn't think it would make such a difference...I also think I didn't understand it properly.

Ultimately about 50 or so people gathered at Brewerkz (great burgers and beer, owned by a Yalie alum) - people who were affiliated with this market that sells local artists' goods, with Yale, or with the Social Innovation Park. There were about 15 or 20 people associated with Yale. The groups were pre-arranged, and after introducing ourselves, we did a case study together. We all talked about the issues related to bringing a specific new product to market in Singapore. We talked about it in a marketing framework, and it was a pretty good discussion.

This discussion introduced all of the people to each other, and people became more comfortable. Afterwards, each of the artists brought over a good that they have made. We had a matching necklace and earrings set, a key chain, a cell phone bag (they have those here) and charm, a car made out of recycled coke cans, and maybe one more thing. Each artist told a bit about their product - including where they sell it, how they promote it, and what the price is. They then asked the group a question they wanted help with - for example where else to sell it, or if another price would be more appropriate. The group all counseled each other, and it was outstanding. I feel like people gave really good advice, and the artists were so receptive.

One example of a productive conversation was this woman who said that her jewelry isn't selling. She was selling the necklace and earrings set for S$38. Other people in the group said that was a bit expensive...until she explained that the stones came from all of these neat places, and each has a special value - like bringing calmness, or health. The final suggestion was to market that aspect of the product so that people know that they're buying more than a necklace. They're buying luck and health, and precious stones from India and China. She was really happy.

We also learned the Yale fight song in sign language. It was super neat. The weird part is that their fight song starts of as "Bulldogs bulldogs bow wow wow." Really? Bow wow wow?

Ultimately - it was a really great experience, and I think all of us got a lot out of it. I really enjoyed it, and I'm very lucky I was included (since I really have nothing to do with Yale...other than a friend or two).

In other weekend news...Matt and I had a stunning victory in euchre over Jeff and Tenley. It was a close competition (10 to 9), and the first time we had taught them to play (and the last time we played) they beat us. This was important for our egos. Jeff had an intense win in Ticket to Ride, and Tenley ran away with Settlers. Fun night (but I was sad I didn't win more, obviously).

I got to see Departures on Saturday night. If you haven't seen it yet - do. It's a beautiful story and beautiful movie.