G.O.A.L.S.

Global Awareness:  Being globally aware means to recognize that there is a world full of new ideas, people, and opportunities for learning in which you can get involved in and contribute to society.  In order to develop this skill, study or research abroad trips are a great way to get different perspectives or gain new knowledge from people unlike yourself.  I would love to learn Mandarin Chinese in addition to continuing learning Spanish so that I can better connect to a larger segment of the population as a future physician.

Original Inquiry: Original inquiry encompasses the ability to be an individual and put forth new and unique ideas that relate to your interests.  Participating in self-led research initiatives or even pursuing your own interests demonstrates this facet of the goals of honors and scholars.  I am currently applying to research labs that focus on cancer research or neurodegenerative diseases as I hope to translate my knowledge from my courses into experiences and active learning in a lab setting.

Academic Enrichment: Challenging yourself to take courses that deepen your understanding and task you with applying your knowledge is an important part of being a dedicated learner.  Taking honors or upper level courses, seeking out labs, or pursuing other opportunities for learning that relate to your area of interest are ways in which you can make the most of your time as a student.  I am determined and willing to put forth effort in all of my classes and am committed to taking courses that will provide a foundation for my future career in the medical field.

Leadership Development: While not everyone is a leader, developing certain qualities associated with leadership roles such as grit, creativity, and compassion can strengthen your interpersonal skills and allow for efficiency and cooperation in the workplace.  Being a leader can apply differently to different people, whether you hold a leadership title at your job, in an extracurricular, in an organization, or you demonstrate these traits in your everyday life.  I hope to be a Neuroscience Ambassador my sophomore year so that I can pass along my experiences and advice to incoming freshmen entering my major.

Service Engagement: Taking the initiative to selflessly serve others and use your individual strengths to benefit your community not only feels good, but is a testament to your character.  I plan on continuing my volunteering at Riverside Methodist Hospital where I discharge patients and help patient’s family members find their way around the hospital.  I also enjoy tutoring and hope to begin volunteering at Nationwide Children’s Hospital where I can help teach high schoolers that are not able to attend school due to illness.