“There are two fatal errors that keep great projects from coming to life:
1) Not finishing
2) Not starting”– Buddha Gautama
As I sit typing this last reflection, my certificate that I completed the program sits beside me. This opportunity to be part of such a group of intelligent youth, and being able to contribute to my passionate peers works has been an amazing chapter. However, this is just the fourth and final week’s reflection.
This week was the most stressful, but fulfilling. My group mates had to plan in great detail to make sure our final project met all the requirements. I think I was the most stressed because I wanted to edit our micro-documentary. Editing was not one of my strong suits, so I really challenged myself for the greater good of my group mate’s vision. I found that editing was enjoyable, even with the troubleshooting of the editing software. I also gained some confidence as our final project was chosen to be displayed for our graduation. I was really proud of it, and I am happy others got to see it.
Other than stress, I found that I was really intrigued with the guest speakers. Most of them had a connection to USC, whether they were admissions officers, financial aid advisors, or students who will hopefully be me one day. All of them were helpful through their presentations, and with the answers they gave to my peers questions. Something I will take away from most of the younger speakers is their high school activities. They were all really unique, and it showed how resilient the students were during their youth. I hope to imitate their resilient attitude towards finding programs or internships that truly interest you.
Lastly, a highlight of this week was certainly getting to hold Professor Allan’s Emmy. Not only was it shinier than the Sun, it wasn’t as heavy as I expected it to be. As I held it, I thought about how I could use this moment to be one of my truths, to the game, two truths and a lie. Other than this, I thought about how long Allan had to work to get such an achievement, and how he simply didn’t attend the party for it. I can’t help but applaud his dedication to his work.
Finishing my reflection off, I would like to talk about the graduation. Although the Sun wasn’t out for most of it, it was a really enjoyable moment that I will always remember. I remember how my nervousness went away once the professors started talking, as it felt natural for them to be up there with the mic in hand. These four-weeks have been amazing, not only for growing my skills, but also for allowing me to get to know the people in the room. I would have never gotten the opportunity to know such passionate, and intelligent people who are worried for their community. I can’t wait to see how we change and solve the issues we care for.
Communicating Change 