Expanding my academic comfort zone has been both a challenge and an exciting opportunity for growth here at Wesleyan University. Over the past semesters, I have ventured into several new areas requiring a different skill set and approach. These experiences have pushed me beyond my usual academic boundaries, helping me develop new ways of thinking and learning.
Economic Research Paper
Writing an economics research paper was one of the most demanding tasks. Unlike reflective or opinion-based essays, economics papers require a more analytical approach grounded in data and empirical evidence. This process helped me refine my ability to think critically about real-world issues through a quantitative lens.
Coding Languages
I learned to use two different coding languages: Stata and R Studio. These statistical tools opened up new data analysis methods, particularly for economics and statistical research. Though the learning curve was steep, I now see the value of understanding these programs, as they provide powerful ways to visualize data and uncover trends.
Art History
Taking an art history class was another leap into unfamiliar territory. I was unsure how I would enjoy the material, given that art had just been a hobby I enjoyed, never taking it seriously. However, learning to interpret and contextualize visual works of art or architecture about historical events, societal changes, and different movements helped broaden my perspective. It taught me that art is not only about aesthetics but also about the powerful ways it communicates cultural and political narratives.
Philosophy
Philosophy class presented a new kind of intellectual challenge. Philosophical texts often demand close reading and reflection, requiring me to wrestle with abstract concepts and arguments often far removed from everyday experiences. Philosophy forced me to grapple with fundamental questions about existence, morality, and knowledge, which was both challenging and rewarding.
Memorandum
Writing a memorandum paper honed my professional writing skills, requiring me to present information clearly and concisely, often with policy implications. These diverse academic experiences have significantly expanded my comfort zone, equipping me with skills that will be useful across many different fields.
