Matthew Tran

Matthew Tran

My top five qualities found in the StrengthsQuest activity is Futuristic, Strategic, Maximizer, Arranger, and Responsibility. The first one, Futuristic, is what fits me the most. To me, this means that I am able to envision my own future, and work hard in order to make my vision a reality. Even though this is my number 1 strength, I only acquired this way of thinking last year. I was overwhelmed last year when I several hard classes, was editor of the school newspaper, volunteered to shadow other teachers, run on the cross-country team, and work at Wendy's. I struggled that year, and I had a bleak outlook on life and my future. However, after playing one of my favorite games of all time, Xenoblade Chronicles, over winter break, it helped me learn that I am in control of my own destiny. This message helped me get through my rough times, and let me pave my path to get here at Ohio State. This value gives me the determination to do well in classes, for succeeding in them is another step closer to achieving my dream.

My first assignment for this class was to write a letter to myself. In my letter, I wrote about how Ohio State is a great place to be and that I should do everything in my power to stay there. I found that actually writing down your thoughts helps them stick out rather than keeping them in your head. I am and will continue to use my letter to remind myself why I am here and to motivate myself to work hard.

In the Dream Job activity, I looked at the qualifications of my ideal job, and decided if I was fit for the job based on my strengths. However, I chose my previous dream job, a columnist, to help show me that it wasn't for me. While I enjoyed writing for the school newspaper in high school, this job would make me do things on the fly, while I would rather plan out what I'm going to do.