Semester in Review

Although I feel that my first semester at college was a success, it was not a straight path to get there.  I faced many challenges and encountered many new and unfamiliar experiences.  I struggled significantly with my mental health and family issues.  However, my ability to remain fcused on my academics despite the difficulties in front of me lead me finish the semester with a strong gpa.

I took Biology, English Writing Composition, Intro to Communication Disorders, Spanish, Mount Scholars Seminar and Freshman Survey.  In addition to my academics, I have also become very involved on campus.  I am a member of the Mount Leadership Society Scholars program which promotes service, scholarship, diversity, and inclusion.  I am also a member of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA) and a co-chair of the Literacy Committee which aims to tackle the low literacy rates in Columbus City Schools.  Additionally, I am a puppy sitter for Service Dogs in Training through 4 Paws for Ability. I am also a fundraiser for BuckeyeThon, which raises money for pediatric cancer research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.  So far, I have raised $2,001.  

Personally, my key to success was to get so involved and engaged that I had no other option but to make the best use of free time, i.e. for homework and studying.  Building a busy schedule forces time management and responsibility.  In high school I did the same thing and also found it to be a helpful strategy back then.  This semester, I plan to get even more involved on campus.  In fact, I am also volunteering at the Aphasia Initiative for the OSU Speech and Hearing Clinic and will be a mentor for an elementary school student through College Mentors for Kids.