[ “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.
I developed a new understanding and appreciation for diversity through completion of the AWARES program, program at Ohio State for women engineering students to equip them with necessary social skills for a smooth transition to work place and a successful career in the engineering professions. I was assigned a mentor, a successful female engineer who graduated from Ohio State, to discuss topics such as diversity in the workplace, the importance of building confidence, successful interview management, evaluating job offers, conflict management and resolution, finding a mentor and a network, and building professional image. As a minority in the engineering field, it is important to instill a strong sense of confidence in future female engineers. It was incredibly helpful to have meaningful conversation with a role model that has had experience and grown from my current similar position. The completion of this program allowed me to feel more prepared for my upcoming engineering internship this summer with the Supply Chain team at FirstEnergy in Akron, Ohio. I feel that I am able to communicate with individuals of different backgrounds, and the most important concept that I learned from this program was how beneficial it is to have diversity of thought in the workplace.
Academic Enrichment: Honors & Scholars students pursue academic excellence through rigorous curricular experiences beyond the university norm both in and out of the classroom.
My involvement in the HSS Leadership Council this year has provided me with excellent opportunities to speak with upperclassmen in HSS, and I am very grateful for their guidance and support throughout my freshman year. I have really valued my conversation with Molly Cogan, as she has answered many of my questions regarding academics at Ohio State, preparing for the MCAT, and other options that are possible if I eventually decide against applying to medical school. Through my discussion with Molly about extracurricular activities at Ohio State, I learned about several possible ways to become involved with the Red Cross. She also sent me information regarding the contact information for joining the Red Cross First Aid Services Team. This is something that I would definitely like to become involved in next year. I really enjoy speaking with upperclassmen about their experiences at Ohio State, and believe that this is a key part of being successful at a large university.
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.
I believe that I have experienced significant growth in my leadership skills during my sophomore year by participating in a variety of extra curricular activities that I am truly passionate about. During my second year on the Leadership Council for the Health Sciences Scholarship program, I believe that I became more confident in my ability to develop new ideas for the service committee as well as guide members who were new to the council. I also joined a sorority this year, which allowed me to expand my leadership skills by working with other strong women to strengthen the chapter. Lastly, I believe that my increased involvement on the Ohio State tennis club continuously reminded me of the importance of teamwork, hard work, and developing a united mindset to reach goals.
Service Engagement: Honors & Scholars students commit to service to the community.]
For spring break during my second semester at Ohio State, I participated in a Buck-I-Serv trip to Brujo, Costa Rica where I participated in a variety of community service projects through a local community center. Some of these projects include building a fence to protect the community center from theft and cleaning up the beach and hiking trails in the surrounding area while promoting environmental awareness. While in Costa Rica, I was also able to stay with a Spanish-speaking family, which provided me with a ideal opportunity to practice my Spanish-speaking skills as I have taken Spanish both semesters during my freshman year at Ohio State. I am extremely grateful for both the community that I built with the Costa Rican people as well as my group members. I have also volunteered at Wexner Medical Center on Monday morning this semester where I serve as a Hospital Ambassador and guide patients to the appropriate locations for their appointments. This has been a rewarding experience because the patients are often very grateful for my help, and it is enjoyable to make their visit to the hospital slightly less stressful.