Over the past two years as a Dunn Scholar, the largest improvement I have seen in myself is in my social skills. As a result of being in scholars I have made several lifelong friendships that have forever changed my experience at Ohio State for the better. Being thrown head-first into such a social setting virtually forced us to build relationships and lean on one another.
Life lessons I have learned from being in DSWS is that anyone has the potential to surprise me. For example, there are so many people in scholars who prior to being in this group together I most likely would not have gotten to know, much less become friends with.
Before being in DSWS I was a relatively shy individual who was very used to having everything a certain way and being able to control most aspects of my life. Following my experience in DSWS, I have become much more willing to go out of my comfort zone and try as much as I possibly can while I have virtually anything in the world at my finger tips, courtesy of Ohio State.
An aspect of DSWS I have been very grateful for is the connection I have received for STEP. Being put into contact with Susie Whittington because of scholars has had such a positive impact on my year. Her charisma is so infectious and her positive attitude was always brightened my day. Also, she is always so happy to see all of us and it reminded me that there will always be someone at Ohio State that I can go to for anything. The way she ran our STEP program was extremely effective in making the experience something I value and appreciate most at Ohio State.
Finally, Buckeyethon was such an incredible experience and being able to participate with a group of individuals I have a personal connection with made it that much better. Being able to see all of the children receive so much honor and recognition for their impossible battle was such a rewarding moment of my life and something I would never trade for anything.