Global Awareness: Global awareness can be cultivated both inside and outside of the classroom. I can achieve the goal of global awareness by taking courses that provide information about other cultures. As a philosophy major, this would likely include courses focused on philosophy from other cultures. I have already taken Ancient Philosophy, as well as several history courses focused on ancient Christianity, which has provided me with a foundation in understanding cultures of different times and places. Next semester, I will be taking Asian Philosophies, which will further increase my global awareness since my study of philosophy up to this point has been predominately Western, so exposure to the East will increase the breadth of my global awareness.
Original Inquiry: Although philosophy is not considered a field conducive for “hands on” research, it is actually perfect for achieving the goal of original inquiry. Every question of philosophy provides an opportunity for original inquiry. Particularly in advanced course work, I will be able to develop my understanding of the research process and the importance of original inquiry. I have already begun to do this in coming up with my own paper topics and hunting for relevant sources in the stacks.
Academic Enrichment: I will use my Honors Contract to ensure that my academic experience at Ohio State is challenging and enriching. I have constructed my Honors Contract such that my course work in both the GE courses and my major courses is “honors quality” and academically challenging. For example, in my major, I have gone beyond the minimum requirements by selecting more 5000-level courses than required for graduation. Moreover, I have picked up a minor in History to provide additional enrichment in a field outside of my major. I also frequently attend academic events hosted by the Philosophy/History/Classics departments outside of class to provide myself with academic enrichment beyond the classroom.
Leadership Development: While I currently do not hold any leadership roles in student organizations, I have maintained several leadership roles in class during group projects by helping develop schedules for group work, helping the group stick to our schedules, and helping others locate resources necessary to complete the tasks at hand. Additionally, I am being inducted into the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society this month, and I may pursue a leadership role within that organization.
Service Engagement: I have placed emphasis on service for much of my life, and I continue to do so. I am particularly interested in service engagement through my church. I have found that service is exceptionally fulfilling when done alongside my religious community. I have participated in a variety of service endeavors, and I am looking to broaden my horizons even further by helping all who are in need.