After completing my second year at the University of Cincinnati as an honors student, I feel that my outlook on what a global citizens school is has evolved as I've grown as an individual. When I first came into the program, I learned that a significant distinction of a global citizen scholar is that they value shedding light on the world's complex problems and social issues. Most difficult problems or social issues in the world aren't talked about openly because they can be uncomfortable at times. However, global citizen scholars can step out of their comfort zones and get involved in areas that may be foreign to them and find ways to make situations better. I also learned that global citizen scholars could use their knowledge from previous experiences, whether personal or educational and use it as a resource for others, which causes them to be very self-reflective individuals. As someone who grew up in a more structured and stern household, I recently learned that it had caused me to be less compassionate. After learning more about who I am and practicing self-reflection, I've figured out that I tend to assume that people are doing fine because I would be, so tunnel vision focused on my personal life. This has taught me that by being a global citizen scholar and having a goal to speak upon complex problems of social issues is that you need to be more compassionate to those around you.

         I've practiced this by being more conscious and aware of those around me by motivating them when I notice that they seem down. I've also found it essential to listen to those around me. I thoroughly enjoy doing weekly check-ins with my distant friends and seeing how life is going and where their headspace is. These aspects strongly connect to personal goals. I have recently been thinking that there isn't enough representation of people of color in the medical field. Growing up, I always struggled seeing myself pursue my dream career of dentistry because I've never witnessed someone look like me occupy that career. I've also worked with finding resources as a first-generation student, as I have no family that can guide me through my pathway. I've realized that I one day want to start a mentorship program for students of color to introduce them to the medical field, encourage them, and guide those that are interested. I've found that the characteristics of a mentor strongly align with the traits that depict of global citizen scholar. I am excited to continue my journey through the honors program and explore more about what it means to be an international citizen scholar.