Exploration of Radford and Self

I decided to explore health disparities through my Honors research course during my first year of college. Despite not liking research, I was proud of the research that I conducted and gained knowledge about the field that I am interested in pursuing after graduation. The Honors College provided me the opportunity to submit my work to the Virginias Collegiate Honors Council conference hosted in Radford University. I was accepted into the conference and drove to Radford Virginia to present my research. This research conference allowed me to explore new experiences and engage in self reflection.

I had never traveled by myself to a research conference and visited Northern Virginia. With my knowledge of the campus and VCU operations through my involvement in PSA, I juxtaposed my experience with other students from universities across Virginia. It was refreshing to hear how their university operated and how it impacted their academic life. I was able to converse with different students in different settings outside of the conference; primarily during volunteering at the Selu Conservancy and post-conference activities. Through our conversations, I learned more outside of academic life. I gained a deep appreciation for the opportunities that my university provides to apply my academic knowledge outside of the classroom and learn through the interaction with different people. Furthermore, I gained an understanding of how different operating systems are unique and functional depending on the environment. When exploring Radford, I became excited for the opportunity to bring back my knowledge to my university. I knew that the knowledge that I gained can be applied in the roles that I occupy.

Reflecting on my experience at Radford, I hope to continue to utilize the resources and opportunities offered to me. I hope to be intentional within each experience in order to challenge myself and expand my perspective on things. I hope to entertain the idea of being open to all experiences despite the hesitancies. My experience at Radford provided me with courage to take opportunities that I did not believe will fit me. One of these opportunities is to travel abroad with the Honors College to Italy and serve as a mentor for first year students.

Tobi Ojo