Interest in evolution
One of my favorite STEM classes has been Dr. Herron's Honors Evolution and Human Behavior class. I had already taken an evolution-focused course from Dr. Herron, and I found this course to be just as exciting. I loved playing games about why specific mating systems work and learning about weird parasites. Actually, scratch that. I did NOT love the weird parasites. But this class was unique because it taught me, more than any class I can remember, the very specific terminology used in scientific papers and in biology courses. It seemed fussy to me at first, but looking back, I had a much better grasp in many of my courses because I knew EXACTLY what the null hypothesis was and EXACTLY what someone meant when they said that an organism had "evolved this trait."
Basically, I want to be Dr. Herron, teaching cool things, visiting cool places, generally being cool.
Basically, I want to be Dr. Herron, teaching cool things, visiting cool places, generally being cool.
An analysis essay for evolution and human behavior
Non-major Music
I also continued my connection with the UW Chorale. The music we learned was incredibly meaningful to me, and it got me through a lot this year. We spent a good chunk of our time preparing for the Estonian Song Festival over the summer; my friends soon grew sick of me humming Estonian and Latvian folk songs. Our choir learned about the history and background of the Baltic countries. I was unable to travel to Estonia for the festival, but I felt close to the countries in a way I couldn't explain. (Remember this-- it comes back later :) )
Being a member of Chorale also provided me with a unique opportunity in the form of a scholarship. I was selected to perform small-group music to various high schools in the region and share what college music looks like for non-music majors.
Being a member of Chorale also provided me with a unique opportunity in the form of a scholarship. I was selected to perform small-group music to various high schools in the region and share what college music looks like for non-music majors.
Non-Major Scholarship recipients performing and answering questions at a local high school
PICTURES FROM OUR PERFORMANCE WITH SEATTLE SYMPHONY FOR THEIR CHRISTMAS POPS CONCERT
Leadership Development
Through the year, I was able to grow in my leadership as an RA. This experience helped me grow as a student, as a leader, and as a human; I will always value the time I spent with my wonderful staff and with the intelligent, curious students of the Honors LLC.