Being a Science & Global Change Scholar has definitely helped me understand global change in a deeper way, especially compared to what I would have gotten without the program. Through the SGC colloquium and supporting courses, I’ve learned to not only explore the scientific evidence behind global change but also to understand the complexities of communicating that science effectively. For example, we didn’t just learn information, but we actively applied it, which is something I really appreciated as someone who learns more by “doing” rather than just listening to a lecture. Additionally, we both learned the causes of climate change and the ways to help solve it, which is something I appreciated, since oftentimes people will either refuse to admit it’s assistance or essentially just say there’s nothing we can do about it and that we’re doomed either way. This program has really made me more aware of how global change is interconnected with a lot of different factors, and how we need both scientific understanding and strategic planning to build a resilient future.
In my BIOE121 lab, I employed the hypothetico-deductive method of science during the albumin protein lab. Our group designed an experiment to test which source—chicken eggs, duck eggs, or egg white concentrate—contained the highest concentration of albumin. We began by formulating a hypothesis based on background research: that egg white concentrate would have the most albumin due to its processed and concentrated nature. We then tested it using a variety of experimental techniques, and we ended up being surprised: the duck egg contained the most albumin protein. My SGC experience helped prepare me to employ this method, since it taught how to think critically and create a testable hypothesis, and then actually carry the experiment out without any biases due to expectations.
In my CHEM135 class, we discussed renewable energy and the efficiency of solar panels, and I noticed some failures in critical thinking during group discussions. Some people argued that solar panels are useless because they don’t work at night, completely ignoring how batteries store energy for later use. Others dismissed renewable energy entirely, saying it would never replace fossil fuels because “it’s not realistic,” without actually looking at data or understanding the advancements in the field. SGC helped me catch these errors in reasoning. It’s made me more aware of how important it is to think critically and use data instead of just relying on assumptions or misinformation. It’s also shown me how to approach these conversations by bringing evidence to the table instead of getting stuck in opinions.
Working with my friends on the future visions project was a huge learning experience for me, since we were able to apply what we learned in a creative and fun way. It was a lot of fun because we got to be really creative and think outside the box. We were able to bring in ideas from different classes, like bioengineering and geology, and figure out how to apply them in a practical way. We worked together to design systems that were both sustainable and feasible, which pushed me to think more about how small-scale solutions could be scaled up. Having them as part of the SGC community made it easier to bounce ideas off each other and get different perspectives on the project. We could meet up outside of class (girl dinner!), collaborate more freely, and just enjoy the process. It made the learning feel more connected and gave me a better understanding of how to apply the concepts I was learning in real-world situations.
I’ve contributed to SGC by actively participating in both class activities and group projects. One example is the climate solutions simulation, where we role-played as different countries negotiating and trading over climate change solutions. My group’s country wanted to take over the world, and while we didn’t quite succeed in this endeavor like we had hoped, we still managed to make some pretty solid deals that worked out in our favor. I helped play a role in negotiating with other groups, trying to make sure our country got the best outcomes while still being strategic about the long-term impacts. Beyond that, I’ve tried to stay engaged in all the group projects and discussions, always offering ideas and being active in brainstorming sessions. In the larger Scholars community, I’ve also interacted with my peers, helping out with study sessions and making sure we’re all on track for assignments. I’d say my contributions have helped both my learning and the group's success in the program
Being in Scholars has definitely brought me in contact with ideas and people that have challenged some of my previous beliefs, especially when it comes to how we approach global change and climate action. Being in Scholars really helped me interact with people of all sorts of backgrounds and majors, and it was really interesting to hear everyone’s different perspectives. One of the biggest challenges for me was the realization that solutions to global problems like climate change aren’t as straightforward as I initially thought. I also previously was pretty sure we were doomed as a society, and while things may not be going as everyone would hope, there definitely are some ways we can combat climate change. This experience has definitely made me more open-minded about how complex real-world problems are. Additionally, interacting with my peers who have all come from different backgrounds and have different views, has challenged me to question some of my assumptions and approach problems with more flexibility and consideration for diverse perspectives.
I think my Scholars experience will definitely inform my future, both academically and professionally. First off, in Scholars I was able to practice my problem solving skills as well as my collaboration, which are both skills I will need to utilize for the rest of my life. Additionally, as an aspiring bioengineer, I definitely will be utilizing the course content; while bioengineering may not typically be considered a climate-related field, the concepts I’ve learned in Scholars about sustainability and global change are highly relevant. Bioengineering plays a crucial role in creating solutions for environmental challenges, whether it’s through sustainable technologies or developing systems that address health and environmental impacts. Ultimately, the SGC program has helped me become more adaptable and aware of the larger context in which science operates, and I’m sure these lessons will shape how I approach my future career.