Reflection on the G.O.A.L.S.

Global Awareness: Honors students will examine what it means to be global citizens and will cultivate and develop their appreciation for diversity and everyone’s unique differences. Students will examine the world’s complex, interdependent systems, as well as their own cultural backgrounds.

What have you done so far to develop your Global Awareness? How do you plan to continue to work toward this goal? (For example, consider course work, study abroad, involvement in cultural organizations or activities, etc.)

First, one of my majors is French; hence, I am constantly learning about not only the French, but also about the cultures around the world that make up the Francophone world. Second, I will be studying abroad this summer at Paul Valéry University in Montpellier, France. Lastly, I also plan to join the French Club at Ohio State next year.

Original Inquiry: Honors students will 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.

What experiences have you had so far that have helped you to understand the research or creative process? How do you plan to continue to work toward this goal? (For example, consider research, creative productions or performances, advanced course work, etc.)

During my Freshman year, I took an British Literature class in which we had to write at 12-15-page research paper at the end of the term. I had never done something like this before, but going through the research process step-by-step showed me how exciting and rewarding original inquiry can be. I have also been able to and will continue to take advanced and varied advanced coursework. Finally, I am currently considering writing a thesis in the behavioral economics discipline. I will be sure to consult my advisor for more information about how one should start this process.

Academic Enrichment: Honors students will pursue academic excellence both in and out of the classroom. Students will use the Honors Contract to construct purposeful and intellectually stimulating programs of study.

How does your Honors Contract demonstrate a commitment to the goal of Academic Enrichment? How does your planned curriculum relate to your future aspirations? (Consider, for example, the following questions: Why did you choose the major(s) (and minor(s), if any) you chose? Why did you select the GE courses you have chosen? How do your selections demonstrate a commitment to excellence?)

As for my majors and minors, I chose French because it is something about which I am truly passionate, I chose economics because it is a subject that I find both interesting and viable as a future career, and I chose to complete a math minor as most of the courses in the minor are required by graduate programs in economics. As for my GE courses, I selected them based on interest and whether they would widen my academic knowledge base. I think these decisions serve as evidence to my commitment to having a well-rounded, challenging education. None of these choices have been made because they are the easy way out.

Leadership Development: Honors students will build on their educational experiences to become leaders in society and the world. Students will pursue co-curricular activities that allow the students to cultivate leadership skills and competencies.

With which activities are you involved? How does your involvement contribute to your development as a leader? How does your involvement relate to your personal and/or career goals?

I am very involved on campus. I am the Director of Finance for the Residence Halls Advisory Council, a Logistics Subcommittee Member of TEDxOhioStateUniversity, a Presidential Host, and a member of the Honors Collegium. In each of these organizations, I am always trying to take on more responsibility, especially when it pertains to taking ownership for a project. Most of these involvements are career-development/career-exploration based in nature. As someone who is not sure what they are going to do after undergrad, I have found my extracurricular activities to be a good source of experience.

Service Engagement: Honors students will build on their educational experiences to serve society and the world. Students will pursue service-oriented activities that are socially beneficial to the community and that contribute to the students’ own learning and development.

List the service-oriented activities with which you have been involved (both ongoing and short-term commitments). How do you plan to continue to engage with the community?

I recently participated in a Buck-I-SERV trip to the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center in Charleston, SC. I am also a member of Romophos Sophomore Honorary, an organization that is grounded in service. In the future, I plan on going on another Buck-I-SERV trip and possibly leading one should I feel so inclined to do so.