Semester Reflections

Semester 4

My final semester with the Scholars community has been a very challenging one. There have been many obstacles faced while also a great amount of opportunities given. I have learned a lot from the assignments done to the actions that I have taken. The assignments that I have completed demonstrated my growth in presenting my ideas through written forms of communication. For instance, being able to express how I have felt throughout the semesters and throughout TRYathalons have helped me develop my writing skills. I’ve been able to find better ways to articulate my thoughts and be able to formally write them down. 

My perception of art has been redefined as a result of my experiences in the program. Based on the different activities I’ve done and participated in, such as the silent disco, the way I view art has been broadened rather than super specific. Additionally, the coursework I’ve encountered has greatly improved my perception of art. Especially during Arts Fest, seeing the different pieces of art continued to redefine my perception as a whole. My capstone project drew upon many strategies I’ve learned throughout my two years in the program. Specifically through supporting courses, I have learned many skills in regards to concept development. These skills have helped me with my capstone project when it came to initial development. I was able to brainstorm and come up with many ideas and concepts for my overall design. Due to the introduced techniques, I’ve been able to strengthen my design thinking skills drastically. 

In regards, I have deepened my existing artistic talents and interests through my participation in Arts Scholars. For instance, I have been able to learn different techniques in regards to mediums that I am very familiar with. This is from painting to model making. Additionally, I’ve been considering social issues in regards to my career choice. From the workshop I participated in last year, Urban Design, to my personal capstone, I’ve found more interest in tackling the social issues in regards to architecture and the built environment further expanding my overall interest. One way that I have been able to collaborate with individuals holding diverse artistic perspectives, interests, and abilities was through my capstone project itself. I have had the honor to work with my fellow classmates throughout the entire process. As we came from completely different perspectives and pathways, we were able to combine our backgrounds and have a strong concept developed for our project. 

I believe that the lessons learned from the Arts program will definitely be encountered in the future. Specifically research development and time management will continue to be a prominent factor that I will continue to draw upon throughout my education and I plan on using what I’ve learned and further develop the learned skills. Additionally, the methods that I have been able to learn will inform my future career. I have used many techniques learned throughout colloquiums and workshops that I have done. I have started to use these skills and also plan on strengthening them throughout my future. Overall, I have had a great experience throughout the program. Though it has come to an end, I have hopes that I will continue to keep art in my life and continue to inspire future generations through it.