Semester Reflections

Semester 1

I did not really envision much of what university life would be like. The only thing I truly envisioned for university life was that it would be more outgoing, fun, and lively. I expected myself to be more involved in the school community by attending more clubs and organizations and participating in more activities. The biggest adjustment has been trying to procrastinate less and get assignments done as soon as possible. I think another adjustment would be the culture shock that the university provides. The university is diverse and I have been able to meet not only people from other states and counties but from other countries. 

In high school, I was used to a lot of coursework. Therefore, I expected there to be a lot but I was hoping for less busy work. Depending on the class, I have definitely experienced busy work but a lot of the weight in college depends on exam grades. Therefore, there is not much cushion from other assignments like I am used to from high school. I can start making a more effective schedule for all my classes and coursework to help me better manage my time and workload. I plan to spend more time during work in between classes instead of pushing it off to the weekend or last minute. I also plan to learn how to take more effective notes and study early instead of cramming. 

I expected Arts Scholars to be a bunch of field trips with only short reflections every once in a while because that is what was advertised during orientation and through word of mouth. A happy surprise has been participating in the Next Now Fest and being able to receive credit for it. I wanted to go to this event but did not think I would have time. I am grateful to Arts Scholars for giving me the opportunity to attend. I also enjoyed my field trip that I went on, which was Monet x Change. It was a hilarious and entertaining stand up comedy show. The vogue workshop with Markell was a thought-provoking and enjoyable experience. Although I have experience dancing, I am not accustomed to Vogue. This workshop gave me a chance to come out of my comfort zone a little bit more, explore, and encompass the goals of Vogue. I learned how to embrace new ideas, styles, and works. I also learned that Vogue can build a place of strength and resilience. 

Time management and communication have been some of my challenges faced during my first semester in college. When tasks started blurring together, I learned how to make a to do list to hold myself accountable. When communicating, I have tried talking to and listening to people more but also making sure to try and address my concerns when they come up. I will let go of not expressing my concerns sooner rather than later and procrastinating. I will continue to make a schedule for my classes and work to balance my activities. These experiences have taught me that although it might be uncomfortable at first, venturing out of your comfort zone and entering a brave space can help reveal things about yourself that you might not have known without branching out. It has also taught me to embrace change and keep a positive attitude throughout it. It never hurts to try new things because it only teaches you what you may or may not like. I learned that I am a lot more creative, adventurous, and confident than I first thought.

 I hold myself to high standards and expect the best from myself. This has helped me to focus on my grades and continue to maintain them. However, my expectations were to receive all As or above in my classes but the reality is that I might have to be okay with an A- or B+. I am grateful for Belle, the absolute best TA and the friends I have made through Arts Scholars. I will try to reevaluate my expectations to make them more realistic without putting myself through more stress.