Capstone Essay

When I first enrolled at the University of Washington Bothell in 2020, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. The world was grappling with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and like many others, I was unsure about what my college experience would look like. Online classes, social isolation, and the uncertainty of what the future held added to my anxiety. But beneath those external challenges, I was also wrestling with internal doubts, most notably, imposter syndrome. I worried whether I belonged in college, whether I could succeed academically, and whether I had what it took to make a difference in the world. These doubts lingered as I navigated my early coursework, but what I didn’t realize at the time was that these very experiences, combined with the classes I enrolled in and the lessons I learned, would ultimately help me confront and overcome those feelings.

Throughout my time in the Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences program, I have grown in ways I could not have imagined. By challenging myself intellectually and personally, I have gained skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the world around me. I pursued a degree in Law, Economics, and Public Policy because I wanted to contribute to dismantling systemic inequalities and addressing issues of race, equity, and justice in the real world. Through my coursework and personal experiences, I have learned to think critically, approach problems creatively, and reflect deeply on the role that policy, law, and economics play in shaping society. This essay will outline how the knowledge and abilities I have developed throughout my undergraduate education will serve me in the future, using key artifacts from my portfolio to illustrate my growth and accomplishments.

One of the most significant turning points in my academic journey came when I completed my Policy Memo on the opioid crisis in Washington State. This assignment, which I submitted for my BIS 302 class with Professor Denise Vaughan, challenged me to apply theoretical knowledge to a real-world problem. The memo required me to conduct research, analyze data, and propose actionable solutions to address the opioid epidemic, a public health crisis with far-reaching social and economic implications. Initially, I felt intimidated by the complexity of the issue and the analytical rigor the assignment demanded. But as I dug deeper into the research and applied frameworks like the Stakeholder Model and Cost-Benefit Analysis, I began to realize that I was capable of tackling complex policy problems. This assignment not only strengthened my research and analytical skills but also boosted my confidence in my ability to contribute meaningfully to public policy discussions. It reinforced my belief that thoughtful, evidence-based policy can create real change, a lesson I will carry with me as I pursue my career.

Another key artifact that reflects my growth is my “Final Reflection for Giant Group Project ” from my BISCLA 380B class with Professor Anida Yoeu Ali. This project was particularly meaningful to me because it combined creativity, teamwork, and social justice advocacy, three areas that have become central to my academic and personal identity. The project focused on raising awareness about the Uyghur crisis through an artistic installation, and my team used circus-themed visuals to critique systemic oppression and highlight human rights violations. My contributions included designing components of the display and collaborating with my teammates to execute the project’s vision. Working on this project during a challenging time in my life, when I was also navigating personal mental health struggles, taught me the importance of resilience, collaboration, and using art as a tool for social change. It also deepened my understanding of how creativity and activism can intersect to raise awareness and inspire action.

Throughout my undergraduate education, I have also gained a deeper understanding of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, both in theory and in practice. As an Asian-Hispanic male, I have experienced firsthand some of the challenges that come with navigating a multicultural identity in a society that often marginalizes people of color. My personal experiences have informed my academic work, particularly in courses that examine issues of race, identity, and systemic inequality. One artifact that reflects this intersection is my “Framing Narrative: Crossroads of Culture” from my BIS 355 class with Professor Christian Anderson. This essay explores the complexities of my multicultural identity and reflects on how my Asian and Hispanic heritage has shaped my perspective on issues like cultural hybridity, societal expectations, and belonging. Drawing on theoretical insights from scholars like Homi Bhabha and Jerome Bruner, the essay allowed me to critically reflect on my personal experiences while connecting them to broader questions of identity and equity. Writing this piece helped me embrace the complexity of my identity and recognize the value of bringing diverse perspectives to the table.

Another course that had a profound impact on me was BIS 282 A with Professor Ben Gardner, where I completed the “Mid-Quarter Knowledge Test” on issues like capitalism, resource privatization, and sustainability. This test challenged me to think critically about the ethical tensions between short-term economic gain and long-term environmental sustainability. By analyzing real-world examples like bottled water and global labor practices, I developed a more nuanced understanding of how economic systems impact communities, resources, and the environment. This assignment reinforced the importance of balancing economic growth with ethical considerations, a principle that I hope to apply in my future work in public policy.

One of the overarching themes of my academic journey has been learning to approach problems not from the perspective of aligning with any particular political affiliation but from the perspective of doing what is right. This principle has guided my work on assignments like my “Post-Class Reflection on Sen’s Entitlements and Capabilities” from my BIS 324 class with Professor Dr. S. Charusheela. In this reflection, I critically evaluated Amartya Sen’s capabilities framework and contrasted it with John Locke’s principles of individual liberty and property rights. The assignment challenged me to think deeply about how policies can expand or restrict opportunities for marginalized communities and helped me develop a more critical perspective on issues of equity, justice, and freedom. It also reinforced my belief in the importance of creating policies that empower individuals while addressing systemic barriers to equity.

As I reflect on my academic journey, I am proud of how far I have come. When I first started college, I struggled with imposter syndrome and a lack of confidence, unsure of whether I had what it took to succeed. But through my coursework, my personal experiences, and the support of my professors and peers, I have learned that I am capable of more than I once believed. The artifacts in my portfolio reflect not only my academic achievements but also my personal growth, my journey from self-doubt to self-confidence, from uncertainty to purpose. Looking ahead, I am excited to apply the knowledge and skills I have gained at UW Bothell to make a positive impact in the world. Whether I am working on public policy, engaging in social justice advocacy, or contributing to community-based initiatives, I will carry with me the lessons I have learned about critical thinking, creativity, resilience, and the importance of diversity and equity. I have learned that making a difference starts with believing in yourself and having the courage to take action, even when the path ahead is uncertain. And that is perhaps the most valuable lesson of all.

As I prepare to graduate, I am also thinking about how best to convey my abilities and accomplishments to future employers, graduate schools, and other audiences. I want to highlight not only the skills I have developed, such as research, analysis, communication, and teamwork, but also the values that guide my work, including a commitment to equity, justice, and ethical decision-making. By framing my portfolio in a way that reflects these principles, I hope to demonstrate not only what I can do but also who I am and what I stand for. My time at UW Bothell has been transformative. I have grown academically, professionally, and personally, and I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to learn, reflect, and grow. The knowledge and abilities I have developed will serve me well as I move forward, and I am excited to see where this next chapter will take me. Thank you for taking the time to explore my portfolio and learn more about my journey.

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