Karlee Orvik

Honors 100
12 November 2015
Experiential Learning Interview
Through our discussion, Shannon and I learned that we shared the
same basic academic interests. We both want to major in subsets of biology,
with her interest lying specifically in physiology. Shannon is on a pre
medicine track, and shows a specific interest in pathology. We discussed her
passion for science and her desire to take care of her family as the
underlying foundation for the path she is on.
Though her main interest is biology, I also asked Shannon if there were
any other subjects in which she would like to take classes. We both agreed
that a psychology class would be valuable, and Shannon also expressed
interest in exploring philosophy or art. The breadth of her interest convinces
me that she will be successful in her chosen academic path, or any other
path she may decide to take, for she is focused, but open minded.
As Shannon told me about her healthcare interests, I immediately
thought she would greatly benefit from taking advantage of the research
opportunities at UW. Perhaps it should have been unsurprising to me then,
that she already has a research opportunity lined up in a radiology lab. So,
with research checked off the list, my first experiential learning suggestion
for Shannon is in the field of service. She showed interest specifically in
tutoring peers in biology, and for this reason she could be a very successful
CLUE tutor. She also wants to take the Honors Chemistry series, which could
make her a valuable chemistry tutor; with both honors and AP chemistry
under her belt, she will have a deep understanding of the material. I also
noticed, on a personal note, that Shannon is very good at articulating her
thoughts. This could be an asset as a tutor as well. On a side note, as a pre
med student, Shannon should consider volunteering in a medical setting as
well.
My second suggestion for Shannon is to pursue a position as a resident
advisor. Shannon expressed an interest in the position, and I believe that
taking advantage of this leadership opportunity could strengthen her abilities
as a future medical professional, as it will enhance not only her decision
making abilities, but also her ability to interact with patients on a deeper
level during medical school; being an RA is a social, service based job, with a
priority on keeping everyone safe, happy, and healthy. The same principles
should be expected of a successful medical professional.
My last suggestion is that Shannon tries to study abroad. I know that
the pre medicine track can be time consuming, so the best study abroad
opportunities for her may be over the summer. For example, I think Shannon
might enjoy the Health track of the Honors South Africa trip coming up in
Summer 2016. By doing this over the summer, Shannon could accumulate a
lot of honors credit at once, consequently opening up room in her schedule
to try a couple of the other classes she is interested in, such as psychology

or philosophy. Furthermore, the program serves as an introduction to rural

healthcare, which can be a very rewarding experience for any student
interested in medicine. The interdisciplinary nature of honors would allow her
experience with rural healthcare to be unique and thought provoking.
Getting to know Shannon through this interview was truly a pleasure;
she is a wealth of knowledge, and I look forward to entering the field of
healthcare together, if that is the track we both end up on.