2010 Census Observations

After we both worked for the 2010 Census locally and in several remote areas in Alaska, we have the following observations:

-Alaska is more ethnically diverse than we thought. We really appreciate this fact after living in NY for 10 years and having friends from all over the world.

-A large house in an affluent neighborhood doesn't necessarily guarantee that the people inside are nice.

-Some of the kindest people we met lived in trailers and other modest dwellings.

-Flexibility in life is important. It was more common than not that our plans for a particular day changed. When you work in the field, change is the constant.

-Sometimes people live off-the-beaten-path for a reason... they don't want to be found!

-In general, people today have very little connection with their neighbors. Many people we encountered didn't even know their neighbors' names.

-Many people had strong reactions to the Census, either happy to be counted or threatened at the "invasion of their privacy."

-In a short period of time, we learned a lot about the people, geography and cultures of various communities by knocking on doors and interacting with local authorities.

-Many modes of transportation are essential to get where people live in Alaska. Brent used: vehicles (sometimes in 4WD with studded tires), planes, ferries, snow machines and some good winter boots.

-"JIT," (just in time) planning was common. It wasn't uncommon for Brent to hear 24 hours before that he needed to fly to some remote area. He often showed up at the airport without an e-ticket, confirmation number or even a flight number.

All-in-all, the 2010 Census was a great experience. We would do it again if we had the opportunity.