[ “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.

Academic Enrichment: I was able to email former Health Sciences Scholars student, Megan Massey, and ask about her experiences and journey in applying to dentistry school. We talked about grades, as that is obviously an important part in the application process, and Meg offered me some helpful advice in boosting my grades for next year and to reach out to my professors and TAs to get the help I need in more rigorous courses like Organic Chemistry and Biology 1114. However, she also assured me that grades aren’t everything and that extracurriculars are just as important. With that, I really want to try to join more clubs and organizations on campus during the next few years, such as pre-dental club, as well as other clubs that meet my personal passions and interests. Overall, I found that it’s important for me to be well-rounded and participate in other activities that can help me stand out as an applicant. Meg and I are continuing to talk through email, and possibly planning to meet up over the summer in Columbus to talk more about dentistry!

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.

Service Engagement: After participating in many service events throughout high school, I was eager to continue volunteering in college. During the beginning of the semester, I visited the Garden of Hope with other HSS members. We helped out there by pulling out weeds, harvesting vegetables, as well as removing the plastic linings to prepare the fields for the next harvests. Although I’m not really someone who likes to get their hands dirty, I found this experience to be enjoyable and rewarding. Overall, I loved being able to get some fresh air, meet new people, and work together to give back to cancer survivors and their caregivers. Back home in Cincinnati, I visited a nursing home called Brookdale Senior Living. There I spent time with residents by sharing stories and doing activities/crafts. Since many of the residents have dementia or their families aren’t able to visit them often, I truly enjoy talking with them and getting to know them on a more personal level.