Why Honors?

Ehm! Today, we will begin learning about the Theoretical Study of Latent
Variables, my teacher announces. My brain initially suffers a slight meltdown simply
from the onslaught of incomprehensible words, but I soon recover. Much to the dismay
of my classmates, I raise my hand, asking a myriad of questions. Their shoulders sag
slightly, and I sense several hostile glares piercing through my back. The ability to
participate in this intimate atmosphere ultimately provided me the ability to understand
and enjoy particularly difficult concepts.
This small group discussion format was the most appealing aspect of the Honors
Program. It is engaging and thought provoking as well as enjoyable. Although a large
group atmosphere is suitable for most students, the ability to share ideas and ask
questions is the backbone of my education. Even when I finally understand concepts,
the thrill of confidently discussing it afterwards is what truly provides intellectual
growth. Not only is there a change intellectually, but there is a newfound desire to put
my abilities to practical use, whether in tutoring others or, in the future, breaking new
medical boundaries.
There are certainly some learning tasks that require a textbook and a pencil;
however, I applied to the Honors program because of its ability to provide a unique
learning environment, one that only requires an open mind and a willingness to
contribute to the discussion. This crucial mindset will similarly aid me as I determine if
a pre-med major is suitable for me. These pre-med classes will not feel like necessary
burdens; they will truly be a source of enjoyment and genuine excitement because I
know that the Honors Program will always be at my side, providing everything that I
could desire to foster my academic drive to ask, discuss, and understand.
Now that my first week has passed at the UW, I have set several specific
expectations of myself. One of the most important goals that I will achieve is the
intricate balance between academics, social life, and health. I cannot succeed without all
three of these factors. Without being emotionally and physically stable, I cannot
challenge myself to the utmost. I want to break any fears that I have, such as hesitating
to raise my hand in my Psych 101 class of two hundred plus people. Although I was

comfortable in raising my hand in high school, I need to train myself to place my

curiosity above any minor fears of public speaking or being judged by my peers. After
all, the Honors Program is merely a resource that I need to go forth and immerse myself
in. Only through this will I come out of the Honors Program a better scholar and
person.