Sophomore Reflection
Holy cow- two years down, and two more to go. I can’t believe I have survived another crazy year.
I have taken the most rigorous semesters of my college career this year, and can’t wait to continue to do so going forward. Here are some of my favorite highlights this year:
I learned the power of cinematography and film- by taking my first (and definitely not my last) film course, I have understood film through its art form and as a teaching tool. At the beginning of the semester, I explored film through storytelling (lighting, mise-en-scene, sound, dialogue). Later, I would explore it again to teach human rights and the world’s most pressing issues against the most marginalized and underrepresented through the newly rejuvenated Human Rights Film Festival hosted by Amnesty International.
I have figured out my academic interests- it wasn’t easy and of course, those interests will evolve. But it took one course to help things fall in place: Economic Growth and Development allowed me to put names and concepts behind what I saw in Rwanda and in China. I knew I loved understanding the world through an international/global lens (hence the International Studies Major), I just didn’t know why. Through exploring concepts of human rights, public policy, and the SDGs, I was able to create a conglomerate of values and ideas that really channel what I care about— and of course, what I could see myself doing career—wise!
I got a head-start on what undergraduate research could be like- by reading a book for my Human Rights and Int’l Politics class, I was inspired to write a real research paper that was a little more than what is expected of most second-year college students! I studied three different cities, which included physical traveling, a day of interviews, and lots of reading. I don’t know if the topic I chose is something I want to continue to build on for when I start UGR— but I am lucky I got a taste before the fun actually starts!
I found a political home.
Joined Student Government as a member of the executive board.
Met incredible people doing incredible things and have inspired me to continue the grind.
Read so many great books- fiction, nonfiction, and everything in between.
Fell in love with taro reading (random)
Have gotten more involved in the community of Asheville— not just the campus
Have gotten started on two new creative projects— including writing and a radio show.
Strengthened relationships with people who mean the world to me.
Started my semester strong with a march in D.C for indigenous voices and rights.
HELLO? This blog stayed up and updated through all the stress and papers and exams!!
On the Dean’s list again!!!!! This is so good!!! I took 17 credits this past semester and didn’t think I would make it so I am crying happy tears.
The real deal is seeing if I can keep this up. I went through a slight— more like BIG— crash of energy and motivation, and def don’t want to experience that again! I want to get in the habit of creating small morning and night rituals that will help me bring me in tune with my needs— I found myself always putting my basic care on the back burner in favor of showing up for others and current issues. But the real test is showing up for myself, so that will be my challenge going forward!
Excited for two more years of this incredible experience!