Thursday, September 4, 2008

What I Expect from Paideia

I first heard about Paideia from Dr. Hunt, who was my FYS professor. The prospect of being with one group of students and one professor for three years really appealed to me as it was still the beginning of my first year and I was missing the close knit group of friends I'd always had. My interest was solidified when I discovered the study abroad and civic engagement requirements, two things that I desperately need to do but may or may not have followed through with on my own. The Understanding Human Behavior theme intrigiued me because I feel like regardless of the field in which I end up, I'll have to interact with humans, so I might as well attempt to understand them.
I really hope to broaden my perspectives with Paideia, both through the diversity of our cohort and as a result of the different requirements. I also want to strive to have a well-rounded college experience, which I believe will be made easier through Paideia.
As of now, my plan is to study abroad in Argentina this summer. I'm attempting a Spanish minor, so this would be practical as well as really really enjoyable. Honestly, the prospect of spending a semester abroad is a bit intimidating to me, not to mention the fact that I'm not sure my schedule would allow it.
I would really like to do a project centering around the world of education. There are numerous teachers in my family and I've grown up being taught the value of an education. Also, with my FYS (The Quest for Educational Equality in America) my eyes were opened to the devastating gaps in the quality of educations children are receiving today.
My only worries are just of time management and commitment; I'm not positive that I'll be able to devote the amount of time I should to Paideia, though I'm going to try.

1 comment:

Dr. G said...

You have a great attitude...I like it. Don't worry about study abroad not fitting into your schedule; Sue Mennicke can help reassure you about that! :-) Dr. G