I joined International Affairs Scholars with the intent to develop my professional and academic skills. Particularly I wanted to develop my understanding of the world around me. G.O.A.L.S. helps define the progression of these skills. I believe I have developed my global awareness by engaging in a variety of events across campus that have discussed a variety of topics. Additionally, my research paper that I have completed during my second year has deeply developed my understanding of Russia in particular. I believe that overall I have a greater grasp of how the International community functions than I had entering the program. I have progressed my experience with Original Inquiry by engaging in my first ever research project. Although it is far from fully professional it has given me the foundation to pursue more serious projects in the future. This initial project has given me the necessary experience to properly grasp the challenges that await me in my future academic and professional career. International Affairs has enabled my to engage in Academic enrichment. The events put on by the International Affairs scholars has exposed me to speakers from both within the University and outside. These speakers are top of the line professionals in their line of work and International Affairs scholars has given me the opportunity to engage academically with these speakers in ways I would not have access to as a non-International Affairs scholar. International Affairs has developed my leadership qualities. Through various service projects completed through the scholars group I have developed vital traits necessary to take on leadership roles in my professional career. Additionally it has enabled me to take on leadership roles in other organizations. It has done so by increasing my confidence in my own ability. As I have just stated, IA has given me greater experience with Service. Various IA events such as the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of service have given me vital experience serving the community. These experiences have helped shape my character and have given me a greater perspective of my own personal life and circumstances. I believe that this is vital to understand in order to be successful in my personal life. In summary I have seen development in all five areas defined through G.O.A.L.S. in the International Affairs scholars group. These developments will serve to my advantage in my academic and professional career. These developments are the result of unique experiences that have been offered to me through the scholars program. Without this outlet, I would not be the same person.

[ “G.O.A.L.S.” is a place where students write about how their planned, current, and future activities may fit into the Honors & Scholars G.O.A.L.S.: Global Awareness, Original Inquiry, Academic Enrichment, Leadership Development, and Service Engagement. For more information, go to: http://honors-scholars.osu.edu/e-portfolio. Delete these instructions and add your own post.

Global Awareness: Students cultivate and develop their appreciation for diversity and each individual’s unique differences. For example, consider course work, study abroad, involvement in cultural organizations or activities, etc .
Original Inquiry: Honors & Scholars students understand the research process by engaging in experiences ranging from in-class scholarly endeavors to creative inquiry projects to independent experiences with top researchers across campus and in the global community. For example, consider research, creative productions or performances, advanced course work, etc.
Academic Enrichment: Honors & Scholars students pursue academic excellence through rigorous curricular experiences beyond the university norm both in and out of the classroom.
Leadership Development: Honors & Scholars students develop leadership skills that can be demonstrated in the classroom, in the community, in their co-curricular activities, and in their future roles in society.
Service Engagement: Honors & Scholars students commit to service to the community.]