This semester marked the beginning of my journey in the SAHE program, where I built a strong foundation in student affairs through coursework in EDL 676. Through opportunities to reflect on my experiences, explore functional areas, and engage in research, I developed a deeper understanding of student development, equity, and institutional support systems. These experiences strengthened my ability to connect theory to practice, communicate ideas effectively, and critically examine how higher education can better support diverse student populations. Together, they reflect my early growth and my transition into the field as an emerging student affairs professional.
This semester deepened my understanding of student development theory by encouraging me to explore identity, authenticity, and the ways systems shape student experiences. Through a combination of personal reflection, collaborative presentation, and critical theory analysis, I engaged with concepts such as intersectionality, critical race theory, and identity development in higher education. These experiences challenged me to examine both my own identity and the experiences of marginalized student populations, while strengthening my ability to apply theory to practice. Together, they reflect my growth in understanding how student affairs professionals can create more inclusive, affirming, and empowering environments for all students.
675 Critical Student Development Theories Presentation
This course deepened my understanding of how race and systemic inequities shape student experiences in higher education. Through both personal reflection and critical analysis, these artifacts reflect my growth in examining institutional racism and understanding how racial identity influences lived experiences and decision-making.