My New Knowledge

     When I began my journey here at Iowa State this past August, I thought I knew a lot. In reality, I was just as lost as every other freshman. I never thought that I would struggle with school. I had graduated high school among a very competitive class, and I had succeeded in being in the top five. I came to Iowa State University being confident only in my study skills.
     That said, it was a very large pill for me to swallow when I had to admit to myself that I needed help in order to be successful in some of my classes. Accepting help from a tutor was extremely hard for me. I was also extremely homesick, and I refused to admit that for a long time. I missed my family, my pets, and my boyfriend back home more than anything in the world. I was off to a very rough start here at ISU.
     Now that I've almost completed my first semester, I've found that it really does get a little bit easier with time. I still miss everyone, but it doesn't control my day anymore. I know that asking for a little help goes a long way, and I'm happy to say that I'm doing extremely well in all of my classes now. I've learned how to study, how to ask for help, and how to live on my own (that one is still in progress every day though). My experience here at ISU is looking up, and I think it is true that struggles make you stronger.

Understanding Diversity

     Earlier in this semester, we were required to go to a "Diversity Event". I chose to attend one about understanding the media's portrayal of women in todays' society. I have always been interested in this topic, and I even wrote a research paper about it in the past. However, I still found this event very interesting. The speaker was a writer for a newspaper, and she frequently writes and talks about controversial issues.
     I learned a lot about various ads, and why they are used the way they are. It was very interesting to hear her opinions on the ads, and she wasn't afraid to speak her mind. When I look at ads, I never really think about why they look the way they do, but after attending this event I really did pay more attention to them in everyday life.
     I'm glad I attended this event because it really opened my eyes to the tactics companies use to market their products, and how some of them are very unfair and sexist while doing it. Like I said, I never really noticed these ads before, but now that I'm aware of them, I can see her examples everywhere.

An Amazing Opportunity

     I have worried about the costs of college since around my freshman year. My family doesn't have a whole lot of disposable income, and even though I hold a part time job at Target, it sure didn't pay enough for Iowa State University tuition. I knew I would have to apply for scholarships, but when the time came to do that, I had no idea where to start. There were so many available, and it was a bit overwhelming.
     I had been applying for various scholarships for months when a recent graduate came back to talk to the senior classes about her first year experience at Iowa State. I was very interested in what she had to say because I knew that I would be attending Iowa State that coming fall. My interest spiked even more when she mentioned a scholarship that Iowa State had to offer. She had been a recipient of the Christina Hixson Award, and as soon as she explained it, I knew that I needed to apply for it. I talked to my guidance counselor, and submitted the application as soon as possible.
     Without this award, I would have struggled to attend Iowa State. This award has meant so much to my family and myself. I will be the first one in my immediate family to graduate with a four year degree, and I know that without Christina Hixson's generosity, that would not have been possible. This scholarship has opened so many doors of opportunity for me, and I am forever grateful.