Adjusting to the Sophomore Year: Maintaining Adaptability during Periods of Alteration
In the final post of their sophomore year at Princeton, our Social Sciences Correspondent shares a compelling tale of adaptability and growth. The author's decision to venture into the academic study of Religion and travel to Mumbai, India, are testaments to their flexibility, a trait that has significantly shaped their college experience.
The author's interest in Religion was sparked by an academic environment that encouraged open-mindedness and fostered intellectual curiosity. This small, welcoming department, combined with last-minute research, led to a life-changing decision.
The author's journey to Mumbai was an unexpected development, made possible through the Office of Religious Life Yoga and Meditation Fellowship. Initially, the author hesitated, fearing they would miss Christmas and New Year's celebrations with family. However, the allure of new experiences and the opportunity to embrace cross-cultural diversity eventually won out.
The author's sojourn in Mumbai was more than just a holiday; it was a transformative experience that broadened their global perspective and enriched their personal growth. The bustling city offered a stark contrast to the quiet academic life at Princeton, challenging the author to adapt and grow.
The author's academic journey was equally dynamic. The decision to concentrate in Religion was not initially on their radar, but after careful consideration and thoughtful navigation of Princeton's coursework, they found it to be a perfect fit.
The author's sophomore year was not without its challenges. They grappled with topics such as guilt related to not constantly working and the demands of Dean's Date assignments and final exams. However, they hope to carry forward the lessons learned from these experiences - open-mindedness and flexibility - as key to personal growth.
The author's story is a testament to the adaptive mindset that Princeton students often cultivate. Whether it's navigating mental health crises, international internships, or Sophomore Research Seminars, the ability to adapt and seize opportunities is crucial to thriving in a dynamic academic and global setting.
As the author prepares for the final stretch of their sophomore year, they reflect on their experiences and look forward to the opportunities that await in their junior year. Flexibility, it seems, will continue to be a guiding principle in their journey.
[1] Source: Princeton University's Office of Health and Wellness Services [5] Source: Princeton University's Office of International Programs
The author's deep interest in the academic study of Religion, influenced by an educational environment promoting open-mindedness and intellectual curiosity, led to the decision for an independent work on a junior paper. This personal growth, nurtured by embracing diverse experiences in Mumbai, will continue to shape the author's education-and-self-development journey.
