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This retrospective reflection highlights the experiences and classes that have most shaped my growth during my time in the Honors College—through research, study abroad, and mentorship.
Introduction
Introduction
My time in the Honors College at IUPUI has been a transformative experience that has not only shaped my academic path but also my future career aspirations in mental health counseling. From researching in labs to mentoring students, studying abroad, and engaging in critical coursework, each experience has contributed significantly to my personal and professional growth. Through this reflection, I will explore how my experiences in the Honors College have prepared me for my next steps by connecting specific experiences to the Honors College Learning Goals.
How have you been an active participant in your intellectual experiences?
How have you been an active participant in your intellectual experiences?
Throughout my undergraduate career, I’ve engaged in various research projects that deepened my understanding of psychological concepts and contributed to meaningful scientific work. In the RISC Lab, I assisted in a literature review and analyzed data for my Senior Honors Research Capstone on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and substance use disorders (SUD). In the IUI Pain Research Lab, I presented research on social determinants of health and pain management, identifying gaps in interventions. Additionally, my work in the CLASP Lab helped develop my transcription and data analysis skills. These experiences have enhanced my research abilities and prepared me for my future career as a mental health counselor.
In addition to my undergraduate research experience, my engaged learning has expanded my skill set in various meaningful ways. My study abroad experience allowed me to immerse myself in a new cultural context, enhancing my understanding of global perspectives and enriching my approach to counseling. As an H200 mentor, I developed leadership and mentoring skills, helping new honors students navigate their academic journey and fostering a supportive learning environment. These experiences have deepened my understanding of diverse perspectives and prepared me for the challenges and opportunities I’ll face in my future career as a mental health counselor.
How have your engaged learning experiences contributed to your development as a student and prepared you for your future career?
How have your engaged learning experiences contributed to your development as a student and prepared you for your future career?
How have you developed strong communication, problem-solving, and civic-minded skills?
How have you developed strong communication, problem-solving, and civic-minded skills?
My role as an H200 mentor allowed me to hone my communication skills, as I guided students through their academic challenges. This experience also strengthened my problem-solving abilities, as I had to quickly develop solutions tailored to each student's needs. Additionally, my study abroad experience in the Dominican Republic helped me develop a broader perspective on civic-mindedness, as I witnessed firsthand how healthcare and social services can differ across cultures. This global perspective will be invaluable in my future work with diverse clients.
Throughout my Honors coursework, I have learned to be more reflective about my learning style and approach to challenges. In research settings, for instance, I became more detail-oriented and organized, skills I now apply to both my academic work and personal life. The hands-on experiences in the Dominican Republic helped me realize the importance of adaptability, as I navigated cultural differences and learned to work within new healthcare systems. These reflections on my experiences have made me more adaptable, patient, and attuned to the complexities of human behavior, all of which will help me as a mental health counselor.
How have you reflected on your growth as a learner through classes and engaged experiences inside and outside the classroom?
How have you reflected on your growth as a learner through classes and engaged experiences inside and outside the classroom?
How have you developed a connection to the Honors College and your Honors community?
How have you developed a connection to the Honors College and your Honors community?
My connection to the Honors College has been a vital part of my academic journey. Through mentorship roles and collaborative research projects, I have developed relationships with faculty, peers, and staff that have encouraged my personal and intellectual growth. I participated in various Honors events, such as guest lectures and networking opportunities, that allowed me to connect with others who share similar academic and professional interests. These connections have made me feel like an integral part of a community that values academic excellence, service, and personal development.
Reflecting on my time in the Honors College, I can confidently say that I have grown both academically and personally. The diverse experiences—research, study abroad, mentoring, and more—have prepared me to become a compassionate, skilled mental health counselor. I have developed critical thinking skills, cultural competence, and the ability to communicate effectively, all of which will be essential as I embark on the next phase of my career. My Honors experiences have not only shaped who I am but have also provided me with the tools I need to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Conclusion
Conclusion
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