Reflection Essay!

When I came to PSU in the fall, my major (Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies) was my

only interest. It was my plan to pursue a career as a professional jazz musician, however, I am
now in a very different frame of mind. In attending PSU this year, my inquiry into all aspects of
life has led me to great discoveries about myself and the world around me. The things I have
learned have shaped me and my future in more ways than I can imagine.!
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One of the first things I discovered was that I have a knack for leading groups and

discussions. I have always known that I have a certain amount of charisma, but I used to think it
was limited to musical performance. This year however, I have realized that I have that power in
all situations. Leadership is of course a responsibility, and I have learned that great leaders
excel at allowing others to shine. The best ideas usually come from encouraging everyone to
fully express themselves during discussions. In the words of Lao-Tse The reason why rivers
and seas receive the homage of a hundred mountain streams is that they keep below them!
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As I became more extroverted and personable, I got to know many students here. They

came from very different backgrounds than I, and opened my eyes to the lives that others lead. I
learned not only about the challenges that other people face, but also the joys of different
cultures and customs. Im glad my inquiry class emphasized understanding, rather than judging,
other peoples point of view. All this has caused me to inquire as to why I hold certain beliefs
and how my experiences have shaped that.!
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My studies in FRINQ have inspired me look deeper into subjects covered in other

classes so I can understand them more fully. It has also caused me to question more of the
information I encounter on a daily basis. Some of these questions might be: What is the source
of this information and is it valid? Does it account for the diverse experiences of other people?
and perhaps most importantly, What is the motivation behind this information? ! !

When the first term drew to a close, I was greeted with a wonderful surprise. For the first

time in my life, I earned a 4.0 GPA. Previously, school had not been of much importance to me. I
had always assumed that I was too distracted to achieve high grades, but when I made the
Presidents list, my confidence in my academic abilities took a huge leap. This caused me to
realize that I am in control of my future. If I set my mind on something, I can achieve it.
Furthermore, nothing will be handed to me. If I am to get what I desire, I must work and make it
happen.!
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In the fall, we learned about what defines art. However, upon my return to PSU in winter

2016, my FRINQ class began to cover the social implications of art. We studied how art is
related to culture and artifacts with Chauvet Cave in France. We also conducted a study on the
relationship between political ideology and taste in art. One of the more eye opening
experiences was learning about the Riot Grrrl movement. Riot Grrrl was a feminist movement in
punk music and culture, lead by Kathleen Hannah. It is widely agreed upon to be the start of 3rd
wave feminism. This was especially interesting to me, being involved in music. Learning about
the social responsibilities and pressures artists face has not only changed my views on what
counts as art, but also my personal tastes.!
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Throughout this year, I have become interested in many things besides music. My next

steps may not involve pursuing a music performance degree. I have realized through academic
and self inquiry that I am fulfilled by creating a valuable product. This has been the case
throughout my entire life, which is why I was attracted to the recording and composition of
music. I now know that music is secondary to that, and it doesnt have to be my profession. I am
free to pursue other interests that will allow me to achieve my personal and financial goals. That
is perhaps the most important thing this year has taught me. My future plans now center around
entrepreneurialism and I am even considering changing my major. Freshman Inquiry has proven

to be indispensable to my higher education and has provided me with tools I will use for the rest
of my life. !
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