December 8, 2024
Finding My Path: Reflections on Growth and Self-Discovery in SGC As my first semester at the University of Maryland comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the experiences that have shaped this chapter of my life. Being part of the Science and Global Change (SGC) program offered me opportunities to learn, grow, and explore new perspectives. However, it also made me realize that while the program has its strengths, it may not align with my personal goals and aspirations. This reflection explores the lessons I’ve learned from my classes, CPSG100, and college life, as well as the advice I would offer to future SGC students.
College classes have been a significant adjustment from what I experienced in high school. They are structured and delivered in ways that demanded more from me as a student and revealed aspects of my learning style I hadn’t fully understood before.I discovered that I thrive in smaller, interactive settings where I can engage more directly with the material and instructors. Large lecture halls, on the other hand, often felt impersonal, and staying focused during long lectures was a challenge. Courses like BSCI160 (Principles of Ecology and Evolution) required me to adapt quickly to a faster-paced environment. The topics we covered, such as Disease Ecology and Hardy-Weinberg Genetics, required not just memorization but a deeper understanding and the ability to apply concepts in new ways. These experiences highlighted the importance of time management and effective study strategies, which I had to develop on the fly. The grading system also posed a new challenge. Exams often held significant weight in determining my final grades, which added pressure to perform well. Group projects and other assignments were equally demanding, requiring collaboration and communication with classmates. While these challenges were difficult at times, they also provided valuable insights into how I learn best and how I can improve.
CPSG100 was a unique part of my semester, offering perspectives on global issues through the lens of science. The topics we explored—such as climate change modeling, sustainability, and the intersection of science and policy—were both relevant and thought-provoking. These discussions helped me see the real-world implications of scientific concepts, which I found exciting and inspiring. That said, there were aspects of the course that didn’t fully meet my expectations. I had hoped for deeper exploration of current global crises and more action-oriented discussions on how to address them. While CPSG100 provided a strong foundation, I found myself yearning for more in-depth and solution-driven content. One of the highlights of CPSG100 was the outside-the-classroom activities. The field trips, in particular, brought the material to life and allowed me to engage with my peers in a hands-on environment. These experiences were enjoyable and educational, even though I realized that my interests might lie in different academic directions.
Life as a university student has been a mix of surprises, challenges, and personal growth. Living on campus, I initially expected to form instant connections and immerse myself in a vibrant social life. The reality, however, was different. While UMD offers countless opportunities to meet people, I found it challenging to build meaningful connections and often felt like just another number in a large student body. Despite this, joining organizations such as the Black Student Union and the Pre-Genetic Counseling Club gave me a sense of community and belonging. These groups allowed me to connect with others who shared my interests and values, even if I still struggled to make close friends. Adjusting to the independence of college life was another significant challenge. Unlike high school, where my days were structured and predictable, college demanded that I take full responsibility for managing my time and balancing academics with personal commitments. This independence was both liberating and daunting, but it ultimately taught me resilience and the importance of self-discipline.
For incoming SGC students, my biggest piece of advice is to know yourself. Take the time to reflect on your interests, learning preferences, and goals. If SGC aligns with your passions, you’ll find it rewarding and enriching. If it doesn’t, don’t be afraid to explore other paths. Engage fully with the program and its activities, even if you’re unsure about whether it’s the right fit. Participation will help you learn and grow, and it will make the experience more meaningful. Also, don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it—whether from professors, advisors, or peers. College can be overwhelming, but support is always available if you seek it out. Lastly, make time for yourself. College life can be hectic, so prioritize self-care, explore hobbies, and invest in relationships outside of academics. This balance is crucial for both your mental health and overall success.
Outside of academics, this semester has been a period of growth and self-discovery. Adjusting to the independence of college life and balancing my workload with personal goals wasn’t easy. At times, I struggled with feelings of loneliness and uncertainty. However, these challenges also taught me resilience and helped me focus on what truly matters to me. One of the highlights of this semester was my decision to change my major to Criminology and Criminal Justice. This change felt like a step toward aligning my education with my passion for justice and advocacy. I’m also proud of the professional connections I’ve made and the leadership opportunities I’ve pursued outside of SGC. My first semester in SGC has been a valuable learning experience, even if it wasn’t the perfect fit for me. It taught me important lessons about my learning styles, preferences, and goals while giving me opportunities to engage with important global issues. For future students, my advice is to embrace the experience fully, even if you eventually choose a different path. While SGC may not align with my future plans, I’m grateful for the insights and growth it has offered me. This semester has been a stepping stone in discovering who I am and what I want from my college journey. I’m excited to continue shaping my path at UMD and beyond.