Global awareness is important not only for gaining a better respect for the diversity of modern society, but for broadening the horizons in which we think, opening our minds to the possibilities. Studying Arabic under ustaada Atanassova taught me much more than a new language. I learned a new way of thinking in the syntax and a new way of understanding in the culture. It’s unfortunate that I won’t have time to minor in the language, it’s really an amazing opportunity. Outside of Arabic classes, a couple of my major courses have also helped me better understand what’s happening beyond our borders. Professors Robinson and Watson in the political science department both taught really informative courses on the institutions of other countries, and the changes they are undergoing. After just two years, I have a much better understanding of the world, but there’s always more to learn.
Professor Harril’s course on the history of the new testament has taught me a lot about the research process. Arguably, I’d say he’s taught me the most about research than anyone else on campus. From him, I’ve learned about the methods historians use when determining the validity of documents, and the processes they use to prove them. Outside the classroom, I’ve been getting some first-hand experience as well. The Office of Government Affairs has a fantastic internship program with the state of Ohio, and through them I was fortunate enough to get an internship in the House of Representatives. It was a great experience this semester, and I learned so much more than I thought I would. It also had practical application, I ended up getting a paid position in a state senator’s office, and I’m very much looking forward to starting that. There have been plenty of opportunities to pick up new ways to learn, both in and out of the classroom.
I have always been interested in politics, and have wanted to go into the field professionally since my internship with a state representative in my senior year of high school. I made the decision to double major in political science and public policy during my first semester at OSU. Political science is a more theoretical take whereas public policy focuses specifically on legislation and the impact it has on the communities it governs. With only four short years at Ohio State, I plan to delve deep into the subject material by taking honors courses in areas I have strong interest in, particularly American politics. I am particularly excited for the courses on nationalism and policy analysis. I have no doubt that the rigor and tenacity required for this workload will be trying, but I have the utmost faith it will all pay off in the end.
As I mentioned earlier, I was fortunate enough to get an internship with a state representative during the spring term of 2018. The internship itself was a great and informative experience, though it was through the coursework the corresponding class that I actually began to plan out my career. All of our assignments deal in some degree to career outlining, and that was actually really helpful in figuring out how I can get to the position I’d like to be in. The internship had strong practical applications, I put enough effort into networking that I’m able to get a paid position in the legislature and I’m very excited to start that this summer.
It is important to remember that there are always others less fortunate than ourselves. Community service is the best way to remember this fact, and do some good for the benefit of society as a whole. To make good on this belief, I joined the OSU chapter of Humanity First, a group that organizes food assistance, education services, and other humanitarian aid to those in need in the Columbus area. Most importantly, it takes small steps to reduce the serious issues of poverty and education inequality, while fulfilling a sense of purpose. Service to humanity in general is the ultimate goal of our existence, and helping one another is the simplest form of that goal.