The official statement of this goal as one of the "six tools" is the development of independence and creativity in thought and action, with skills and aspirations such as leadership, teamwork, and entrepreneurism.
My Interpretation
This tool is what makes people stand out. Those who dare to strike out on their own or relentlessly pursue their own ideas show strong convictions and character. This is a tool that I think anyone should strive to have, and certainly also chemical engineers.
My Evidence
E-Portfolio Implementation Team
My own personal history with the e-portfolio project begins with the kindness of my research advisor and the original head of this project, who allowed me to participate as a graduate student in the first place! I have since "inherited" this project and plan to present findings related to it at upcoming conferences in chemical engineering and engineering education.
Kaneb Center for Teaching and Learning
My work with the Kaneb Center is a testament to my ability to function on a team - a group of graduate students and faculty conduct the workshops put on every year - and also my ability to lead such a team, as I was the senior graduate associate in 2009-2010. I created a new pamphlet to aid in the orientation of new Kaneb employees, in addition to revamping their workshops on "professional development." More discussion is given in my "welcome" page.
National Novel Writing Month
For two years, I was the municipal liaison (effectively, the local leader) of the Notre Dame region for NaNoWriMo, a 30-day novel-writing frenzy held worldwide every November. I took the initiative to contact NaNo headquarters back in 2008 to become this liaison, since our region had never had one before. As all other participants, I also wrote a novel in the span of 30 days, which is further proof of my creativity!
Assessment of Strengths and Weaknesses
I believe that I am an effective leader and able to complete solid work independently, so my strengths in this area are moderately high. However, I lack the "entrepreneurial spirit" necessary to strike out completely on my own, as far as my ideas go. It's my hope that I attract the right people to get to work in a team with them on projects related to teaching and education research.
Goals and Plans
Medium-term goal: Finish research proposal related to serious games.
Long-term goal: Launch a successful teaching/research program at another university or college.
Notes for CBE 20255 students:
Notice that some artifacts may simply be "external links." If you're involved in a club, link to their website or post a picture of you in that club!
You may not have significant leadership or teamwork experience at this point, and whether you have or not, you should discuss future plans to improve your abilities in the upcoming years.
Obviously, your contributions to date may be lacking in this or other areas. Do not be discouraged! If you believe you have little to no evidence of your proficiency at this or any other of the six tools, take more time to reflect on your current abilities and plans to improve in the future!