Claire Cressman

My top strength identified in the StrengthsQuest report was learner. Going into the survey, it didn’t even cross my mind that it was one of my strengths, but in reflecting on my results I couldn’t agree more. To me, learning is being able to understand the world around me. I’ve been told I spend too much time studying, but I enjoy the challenge of applying new information into my life. I try to appreciate what professors are teaching me because I’m inspired by their dedication and love towards their subjects. I tell myself that if I work hard enough, I can accomplish whatever I desire to, and that stems off of learning to never give up. With the goal of becoming a teacher, I hope to never stop learning for my students. My students and the information I teach them will always be evolving, and by constantly learning I hope to grow as well.

In the second Buckeye Book Community reflection I was asked what I would sacrifice to pursue my dreams. I talked about how school was my top priority, however I would never sacrifice my happiness for it. I learned that I take my studies very seriously, and that I’m driven to do whatever it takes to become successful in a career I love. I also learned that I value my personal happiness the most. I enjoy being able to reflect on my life to make it better when necessary, but most importantly I value staying positive. This will help me grow when I hit low times in my life. Although I hope bad times never happen, if they do, I know that I will be able to step back and see the positives in my life to hopefully move past the situation and enjoy the world around me.

In the Curriculum Plan activities my class began the stressful aspect of planning our college futures. We learned about what classes we should take to prepare ourselves to apply for our majors, and how to manage our studies. At first I was really excited to plan, thinking I had it all figured out; but then I realized how many hours go into my major. I learned that I’m going to have to work extremely hard to accomplish all I hope to. I want to be able to minor in dance and history, but the hours my major requires might set me back. It will be interesting to see how I end up, but I’m hoping for the best!