What attracted you to the WGS minor?
What first attracted me to this minor was Professor Novell’s class Study of Fiction. I always loved the way the course was taught and decided to check out the minor that was advertised in the class. I was involved with another minor at the university but was never drawn to it. With the WGS minor, I felt like I was truly learning more about myself as a person. The WGS minor not only challenges you, it makes you reflect on current issues and helps you empathize different perspectives in life.
What has been most interesting about your experience with the Program so far?
I think the most interesting thing about my experience with the program so far is how much it relates to the real world. With many things going on, I have found that the courses and material is relatable. Many of the course material ranges from the Black Lives Matter movement to acknowledging what other minorities like the Muslim and Asian community have experienced.
Have you found any aspect of your WGS studies surprising?
The thing I found most surprising is how flexible the courses have been. Many of the courses I have taken had different perspective throughout the semester by reflecting on what was happening in the world. Another thing I found surprising was how as students we were also able to control most of the discussions in the course which was very different to my major which is biology.
Has your work as a WGS minor impacted your other course work?
I think my minor has impacted my other course work with my major because of my passion for service learning. I love giving back to the community and this minor allows for me to be more understanding with the issues that are presented in the world nowadays. I’ve been able to be more aware of my surroundings keeping in mind that many people could be going through things.
Have you seen any intersections between your work as a WGS minor and your experiences outside the classroom?
The WGS minor made me even more empathetic to others and definitely gave me a new lens. There were definitely some things I would not have thought to research about but the courses in this minor made me want to learn more. I feel like I am able to analyze cultural practices and understand differences in peoples social and economic lives in not only the United States, but globally. I am very appreciative of the diverse perspectives I am able to apply my new skills to.
