Spring

To be honest, I have no idea what to expect from Paideia this semester. So far I have not been disappointed, so I have no worries wondering the unexpected. I am hoping and anticipating the continuation of my self improvement that I have gained thus far from the program. I have enjoyed our discussions about the many issues that are important in each of our respected fields. This semester, finally, I am taking a manageable number of hours. Hopefully, this means I will be less stressed and more focused on learning. Last semester I really started looking forward to going to Paideia and learning about new topics. I am sure this tread will continue through out the Spring semester.

As for study abroad, I am still planning on going to Australia this summer. My application has been submitted. I have a few things left to be completed but all systems are a go for now. I am really excited for the trip…and again have no idea what to expect. The program I have applied for is based on the East Coast of Australia, out of Queensland aka the home of the Great Barrier Reef. We are going to learn about marine environment, biodiversity, ecosystems, biogeography, and human impacts on the environment through hands on research on one of the natural wonders of the world!!! Sacrificing repetition I would like to say again, I am really excited.

Currently, I am doing research which will be used for my capstone with Dr. Purdy. We have not yet decided what exactly we will be doing this semester, (the organization from which we received our cuttlefish has diminished, so we need to find something to study) however, we are meeting this week to discuss possible options. I am sure we will find something that will blow away the scientific community!

I really hope we continue with shared readings for our group discussion sessions. I would prefer if we got to choose our own readings to lead. Last semester I was leaning more towards a group book (like the 50 facts book) because having a busy schedule lead to a lot of pressure finding the right material to present to the group. However, looking back I feel like we were able to discuss a greater variety of topics by having each individual find something they found interesting. I also was thinking that having a book would let me have enough time to read the material before the discussion (I know everyone was busy but sometimes, a nights notice just wasn’t enough time for me to read the article much less analysis and present a viable argument about my opinions of the article.) Hopefully if we do choose to continue the shared readings, we can all agree to give each other enough time to read it, perhaps by the Friday before (so we have the weekend).

In conclusion, I am very optimistic about this coming semester/ year. Can’t wait to get it started…that’s all for now!