Reflecting on my experience within the Honors Program, I am realizing just how important it has been not only to my intellectual development, but also my personal growth. I was initially unsure about joining the program after being accepted to the University of South Dakota. Stemming from the overwhelming prospects of college in combination with a lurking fear that I may not be fit for the additional rigors of an advanced collegiate curriculum, my reluctance became a moot point after I was selected for the Sanford School of Medicine Alumni Student Scholars Program (ASSP). The ASSP requires enrollment in the Honors Program, so despite any apprehension I possessed, the decision was made. Nevertheless, I can now say with confidence that, as a result of my participation in the Honors Program, I have flourished at USD. Living among other driven individuals on the Honors Floor, being exposed to an interdisciplinary background, and having access to additional resources have been crucial to my intellectual development. When I initially contemplated an Honors Program, the aspects that came to mind were stuffy classrooms …show more content…
One of my proudest life accomplishments was being selected as a participant in the 2015 Fulbright Summer Institute to Wales. Applying for this nationally competitive program, I needed to submit an application that would dazzle a selection committee. Thankfully, I received invaluable critiques and suggestions from my Honors advisor, Susan Hackemer. The Summer Institute was one of the most incredible experiences in my life where immersed myself into a completely new culture with seven other outstanding students. To this day, I am astounded at the impact it has had by encouraging both academic and personal growth and I am thankful that my Honors Program connections helped me attain