Throughout the last three semesters as a Science & Global Change (SGC) Scholar, my academic journey has been shaped by an exploration of the Science of Nature and the Nature of Science. Delving into the foundations of scientific practice, investigating global change, and understanding the implications for the future, the program aimed to equip students to plan for resilience in a changing world. This reflection will highlight how my experience as an SGC Scholar has enriched my understanding of scientific research, influenced my choice of major, and contributed to personal and academic growth.
My SGC experience has been instrumental in deepening my comprehension of the scientific research process. One significant aspect has been the application of the hypothetico-deductive method beyond the SGC colloquium. In various major-based classes, coding courses, research labs, and even psychology research, I employed this method to analyze data, draw conclusions, and conduct experiments. SGC not only introduced me to the hypothetico-deductive method but also prepared me to efficiently apply it in both academic and real-world problem-solving situations.
Taking the hypothetical-deductive method into my major-based classes, particularly in social data science and psychology research, proved invaluable. It allowed me to approach problems systematically, find relevant data, and make informed conclusions. SGC supporting courses, such as the Anatomy of a Scientific Paper and the Human History and Climate Change lecture, further enhanced my understanding of scientific writing and connected human history to global warming, providing a broader perspective on the interplay between science and society.
The SGC colloquium's emphasis on scientific research topics has significantly influenced my choice of major. Topics related to data development and presentation have provided a solid foundation for my social data science major, fostering a sense of security and understanding. Additionally, exploring the connections between human history and climate change in the colloquium has deepened my engagement with my psychology major.
Two specific items from CPSG SGC classes have significantly contributed to my growth. The "Anatomy of a Scientific Paper" lecture clarified scientific writing, making it applicable to other classes. The "Human History and Climate Change" lecture broadened my perspective on the impact of human actions not only on climate change, but across the course of history.
Interacting with fellow SGC Scholars, both in and out of class, has been a valuable aspect of my learning experience. Living with Scholars in my freshman year facilitated quick resource sharing and provided a supportive community. In class, I actively contributed through discussion posts and activities, engaging with peers and offering feedback.
Being part of the Scholars community also challenged my preconceived beliefs about global warming and climate change. SGC encouraged me to move beyond sensational news stories, focus on proven science, and analyze and decipher information critically. This shift in perspective has influenced my personal commitment to understanding and addressing global issues.
Looking ahead, I anticipate that my Scholars experience will inform my future endeavors. The lessons learned understanding the full picture, approaching situations with an open mind, voicing ideas and opinions, and embracing volunteerism will undoubtedly shape my approach as a junior, senior, and beyond, impacting my professional career and life. As I navigate the future, the Science & Global Change Scholars Program will continue to serve as a formative and influential part of my academic journey.