I chose to critique Jahaikil’s catalyst presentation because it was something that I would want to use. I feel an app where students can sell/exchange art supplies that that they no longer need is something that could be greatly utilized by all the students of Parsons. It was mentioned in class that programs like this already exist for most students to exchange and resell text books being that students can spend upwards of 1000 dollars a semester on new textbooks. But what about art students who are purchasing art materials instead of textbooks? I know for myself that I spend over 500 dollars a semester on art supplies, most of which I will use for single project and never touch again. These art supplies, though still usable, cannot be returned and are usually thrown away or left in art bin to collect dust. At the start of this semester I purchased the Parsons starter kit, and when opened found that most of the items it contained I had already purchased separately, or were not the type or brand my professor required. I tired returning these items, which were unused and still in their original packaging, but the art store wouldn’t take anything back because I bought them as part of a kit. If Jahaikil’s app existed, would easily be able to find someone in need of my excess supplies eliminating waste, making some money, and helping out my college community.
One important aspect of this app would be that it is limited only to registered students. It should require a school identification number keeping it out of reach from some people who may wish to use it inappropriately. At first I could be specifically for Parsons or New School Students, but with the abundance of schools based in New York City, I could see it expanding to include NYU, SVA, Pratt, Hunter, Columbia etc. Like many apps that involve the exchange of money it could be connected to a secondary source like Pay Pal to handle all the financial transactions. Materials could be categorized not only by type, but also the required materials for certain classes. Similar to the Parsons kit, these categories would include all of the items students have needed for specific courses but allow them to buy the items individually. If the app gains popularity it could even expand to a place where students can connect to combine their skills and create more dynamic projects. It could connect photographers with assistants, or designers with models, or even writers with editors. There are many possibilities for this app and if Jahaikil ever wants to try and get it started, I want in!
