Month: November 2020

Semester 1

Throughout my first semester at Ohio State, I have learned a tremendous amount of knowledge in my classes, but more importantly, I have learned about myself. Although a lot of opportunities and events were not available to first-years this semester due to Covid, I have tried to make the best out of my situation. My first semester has included a few notable developments:

Social Development: I have made a few friendships in my first semester, which I was worried about due to the lack of social events. I have been able to form relationships with my peers through study sessions, eating, and more eating. Although it is hard to meet people outside of my close circle, Biological Scholars has helped me be close to people of similar interest and drive. I have also learned how important it is to put others’ health above my own. During this semester of Covid, I have made sure to be smart about where I go so I can keep the people around me safe. I put aside most social interactions and possibilities to protect my friends and family from the virus, which has proven to be a very educational experience.

Academic Development: I have learned more in my classes in my first semester at OSU than I have during the entirety of high school. I have grown to love learning and am gaining an even bigger desire to study the field of biology. Although the system of online learning is still being developed and a bit unfair at times, I have loved my classes and definitely feel as if I am growing in the academic field. This semester I took Stats 2480, Spanish, and GenChem, as well as two survey classes. My favorite class was Spanish, I had an amazing instructor and I love learning about other cultures, as well as speaking Spanish. My stats class was extremely difficult, but it was a learning experience in terms of study habits and asynchronous classes.

Personal Development: During this semester, I have developed as a person in every aspect. In just four months, I have learned so much about myself. I have developed different study habits, found different passions and goals, and made realizations about my future. In the past, I have always seen my future as pre-med and have not looked into other career options. Throughout this semester, I have talked with advisors, attended informational meetings, and researched other possible career options. This semester has been an eye-opener in terms of my future plans and the paths I need to take.

G. O. A. L. S.

The GOALS of the Honors and Scholars Programs:

 

G is for Global Awareness, which is meant to help students gain global perspective in terms of appreciation for diversity and uniqueness amongst cultures and individuals. Currently, I am accomplishing global awareness through my course work. I am taking a Spanish intensive class, through which I learn about other cultures and how each country not only has a unique culture, but may have a multitude of cultures within a single country, much like the United States. I plan on expanding my global awareness through more Spanish coursework and through a Study Abroad in Spain.

O is for Original Inquiry, which pertains to research both individually and with other researchers. Although I currently have no research experience, I am hoping to obtain a research position by my sophomore year in which I can work with and help faculty, which will hopefully lead to a personal goal and idea for research. Currently, I am constantly reading and looking into research done by OSU faculty so I can consistently improve my knowledge of the research process and opportunities at Ohio State.

A is for Academic Enrichment, which is obtained through rigorous curriculum both in and out of the classroom. Because I am on a pre-professional track, my curriculum is nothing short of rigorous. Both with labs and STEM classes, I am challenged every day through my curriculum. I have finished almost all of my Gen-Eds, so my curriculum is almost all intensive STEM classes. Outside of the classroom, I am also being challenged through clubs and thought-provoking events. Through the Biological Sciences Scholars program, I have an abundance of opportunities to enrich my learning, which I have done through attending zoom panels with acclaimed researchers, professionals, and leaders in academia both at OSU and the world. These sessions oftentimes relate to my coursework and give me an outlet to advance thoughts and concepts I have gone over in class to a real-world setting.

L is for Leadership Development, pertaining to leadership in the classroom, clubs, community, and much more. In past years, I have been the President of multiple clubs, organized service and events, and have been a peer leader/tutor. These experiences have helped shape who I am by providing me with much needed skills, such as cooperation, effective communication, and an understanding and sympathetic attitude to others. My leadership style is very participative. I value communication, helping my team through problems, and being a very accessible leader. I have watched my leaders and their styles, which helped me shape my style of leadership, which I feel is very team-oriented and understanding.

S is for Service Engagement, which is meant to encourage student to commit to service both with individuals and community. Currently, I am involved in PenPals and Biological Sciences Scholars, as well as the food pantry where I live. Through PenPals, I talk with a mentor elementary school kids in Columbus. This gets me involved with the community though trying to develop and be a friend to kids in our community. Through Biological Sciences, there are many opportunities for service and engagement in the community, such as volunteering at the Food Pantry, donating items to those less fortunate, and spending time with other volunteering organizations. I plan on taking advantage of the opportunities for service Biological Scholars gives me, as well as donating more time at food pantries when they allow more volunteers. Service, especially in my home town, has shown me just how many people can be struggling financially is a small community that you may not be aware of. Service has taught me just how grateful people are for the tiniest bit of help, as well as encouraging me to create my own ways to help the community.