YEAR ONE Diving into Honors
Stories of Knowledge, Knowledge of StoriesJeanette Bushnell's Honors class was an amazing way to start my college path. On the first day, she had this image on the screen. It is about showing that within a group of people working towards a common goal, we are connected by our thoughts, our feelings, and to our place. As transitioning to adulthood brings its own struggles and frustrations, I have tried to carry this sentiment with me, reminding myself to notice the beautiful connections all around me.
Honors 100
Honors 396 Near the end of year one, group connection was again a high point. Here, at a retreat for the 2017 Honors 100 Peer Educators (in training), I finally found a team. On this crazy pre-midterm weekend, I was reminded that I love escaping from the city, giving myself time to reflect, and making new friends in unexpected places. I was also reminded of the importance of self care through allowing myself to follow and question what I truly care about, although this can be surprisingly hard to define and accomplish. |
One of the biggest lessons from Honors 396, which I am still working to make meaning from, is that sometimes progress feels like regression. Specifically, a major part of the retreat was the "good experiences" activity. By reflecting on things we did well, enjoyed, and were proud of we were able to find trends, and thereby identify our dependable strength which can be used in directing a personal and career path. Somewhat surprisingly, nearly all of my good experiences involved some sort of leadership or teaching role. Teaching in certain areas (math, chemistry, soccer) has always seemed like something I could do well and enjoy because I was good at those things. However, it never crossed my mind that the very act of teaching (or learning about learning), could be a legitimate calling for me.
Coupled with a well-timed check in from my dad (urging me to make sure I truly want to pursue Materials Engineering, and reminding me that whatever I do, I can do well and find success), I began to panic. None of my strengths involved or related to engineering, so am I on the right track? To what extent should I "follow the money"? If I change my track, will I forever regret not following through with a hard science?
Through reflection, I have come to find meaning from my good experience discrepancy. I remind myself that I am on this MSE track because I truly have a talent and enjoyment for learning math and science. And honestly, I do find value in a degree that will secure me financial wellness. However, this is not mutually exclusive with pursuing my strength and desire to teach and lead. These skills will always come in handy as I explore the bounds of my degree and work in teams.
Through the craziness of questioning my college path and my "life plan", I must appreciate that I am learning so much about myself at this time in my life. More important than my major choice is my attitude towards learning and my embrace of healthy and diverse relationships. I am thankful for my peace in knowing this.
Coupled with a well-timed check in from my dad (urging me to make sure I truly want to pursue Materials Engineering, and reminding me that whatever I do, I can do well and find success), I began to panic. None of my strengths involved or related to engineering, so am I on the right track? To what extent should I "follow the money"? If I change my track, will I forever regret not following through with a hard science?
Through reflection, I have come to find meaning from my good experience discrepancy. I remind myself that I am on this MSE track because I truly have a talent and enjoyment for learning math and science. And honestly, I do find value in a degree that will secure me financial wellness. However, this is not mutually exclusive with pursuing my strength and desire to teach and lead. These skills will always come in handy as I explore the bounds of my degree and work in teams.
Through the craziness of questioning my college path and my "life plan", I must appreciate that I am learning so much about myself at this time in my life. More important than my major choice is my attitude towards learning and my embrace of healthy and diverse relationships. I am thankful for my peace in knowing this.