Career Reflection Paper

Olivia McCarthy Foundations for Learning September 9, 2010 Reflection Paper #1 Upon being asked about my future, I have always been met with anxiety and fear of such unknown. Growing up, as more and more of my peers developed their specific interests and even revealed desired career choices, I only felt lost in terms of what I wished to purse. I found that I was easily overwhelmed if I allowed myself to read too deeply into the dreaded “what am I going to do with my life” question. I have come to realize that it is much less anxiety provoking, however, if I view this matter on a smaller scale.

After all, I do have aspirations and goals that I strive to achieve on a short-term basis. With regard to college, a top priority of mine is to achieve high grades in order to make the dean’s list here at Bryant University. In order to do so, I know that I must alter my High School studying stills into productive habits. For example, instead of procrastinating finishing my calculus homework because it isn’t due until the end of the week, I will strive to discipline myself in order to complete my school work ahead of time, decreasing stress and being a more efficient student overall.

In addition to work ethic, I also see myself developing “active learner” skills, as discussed in Foundations for Learning. Getting the most out of my college education is very important to me, which is why I see myself engaging in specific activities in order to go “above and beyond” the standard student. As described in the textbook, instead of briskly highlighting text for required reading, I see myself analyzing the information, taking notes in the margins, as well as looking up any information that I am unfamiliar with.

This will not only benefit my academic grades, but will also enforce self-discipline and a positive work ethic. In order to support this theory of being an “active learner” I also see myself being assertive with my professors and developing positive relationships with them. Being comfortable with asking questions and speaking up when I do not understand a certain topic is essential in developing this relationship. As well as focusing on academics, I also believe that in the future I will expand my social experiences.

Familiarizing myself with diversity and broadening my horizons is in my opinion important to act upon. For example, as I embark on the Study Abroad program here at Bryant during my “Sophomore Year Experience” or as I travel after college, I see myself meeting new and exciting people (whether from Spain, Europe, Australia, etc) who can educate me in how their government is run, school systems are set up and overall what it’s like to live in a place that is so much different from my home.

In turn, I will be able to do the same for them. Around the end of my sophomore year, I see myself narrowing down a career choice. After taking many different courses during previous years here at Bryant, I see that I finally figure out my purpose and I am confident with my specific decision. As this realization hits, I see myself getting into and working hard in graduate school in order to further my studies before entering the work force.

Upon choosing a career I see myself with a comfortable income, independent, in a very positive disposition. After I am able to be financially stable and independent, I see myself meeting my future life partner and settling down. I see this person as being not only my romantic partner, but also my best friend and most reliable support system. Starting a healthy, comfortable family would follow shortly. I see myself living in a beautiful home close to the beach, with my partner and a few children.

I see myself maintaining physical health and attractive appearance by remaining active and taking care of my body. With my family I also see opportunities to travel around the world and experience vastly different things in their company. Continuing my passion at work and developing new friendships, opportunities for adventure and self satisfaction would be merely a few more accomplishments I see myself achieving throughout the rest of my healthy, long-lasting life.

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