Semester in Review

My first semester of college has been a great challenge. Not only have I been challenged academically, but I have been challenged with adapting to a new lifestyle and forming new relationships as well. Towards the beginning of the year, I found it extremely difficult to study for a quiz or a midterm. The way that I had studied in high school wasn’t very applicable to my college life. So I retaught myself how to study, and how to get the most out of my classes. There is no shame in going to tutoring and office hours. In fact, I have come to view it as a feat to be admired.

Up until this semester, I have never had a point in my life where there are so many opportunities to take advantage of. TheĀ  wide array of research opportunities, internships, study abroad, volunteer experiences, organizations, etc. all seemed very overwhelming at first, and at times it still is. But I am learning that one student is not capable of taking part in everything, and that focusing on what is important to you makes the college experience much more manageable. This semester, I have been volunteering at the Veterinary Medical Center in the Oncology and ICU units twice a week, and I have also been preparing to study abroad in Nicaragua over winter break. These two experiences are the opportunities that I decided to take hold of this semester, and next semester, I plan to become involved in research.

My demanding schedule has required me to work on improving my time management skills. I have also been able to improve my leadership skills as well, by participating in various events such as being an Ohio State Welcome Leader in the beginning of the year, as well as volunteering with the Zero Waste initiative at Ohio State before a home football game. I’ve learned to open my mind to paths that I had never previously imagined myself traveling on. I came in to Ohio State with my heart set on being a Veterinarian, but now after having heard about many other career options available in my field of interest, I am now continuing my studies with a focus on wildlife science rather than the pre-veterinary track. I am very excited to see how I continue to grow as a person, as well as with my studies, as I continue my education at The Ohio State University.