I do not even know how to begin a reflection over this past year because so many eventful things have transpired, both good and bad. My third year of college has brought many firsts to my life: the first time one of my friends has had a baby, the first time I watched a live rocket launch on TV, the first global pandemic I have experienced, the first international civil rights movement I have participated in—just to name a few. Because of all the new things I have experienced, I have changed as a person in my thoughts, values, and beliefs. In the beginning, a significant amount of change can be intimidating, but especially in the last couple of weeks, I have learned to embrace the change and focus on the importance to continually strive for self-improvement. My definition of a global citizen scholar has changed in the past few months along with a lot of other changes in the world. Today, I would say that a global citizen scholar is someone who recognizes issues in the world, identifies a personal skillset, and works to constantly improve themselves for the benefit of society. Trying to fix world problems is a daunting challenge, especially on an individual level. This past year I have tried to not let the ominous worldwide issues deter me; instead, I have focused on finding ways that I, personally, can contribute to positive change. One specific way I do this is by challenging myself to be as educated on current events and issues as I possibly can be. I have learned that I cannot resolve injustices that I am not educated on. I have realized that fighting ignorance is the first step to fighting injustices. By branching out and following new informational social media accounts, tuning in to different news stations, and keeping an open mind to what others have to say, I have been able to recognize issues in the world that call me to action.
One main issue that has been focused on recently is racial inequality. Before, I may have thought, “What can I do to actually spark change?”. I may have been discouraged by the size of the issue and thought there was nothing I could do to really make an impact. However, now I choose to use my personal skills and abilities to contribute to change. I may not have the largest social media following, so posting on Instagram will not reach millions of people, but I can still start conversations about injustices and bring attention to the problem. A more specific and career-related way I can contribute to fighting these injustices is recognizing racial inequality in the healthcare world. Especially considering the COVID-19 outbreak, I have learned that there are significant disparities in healthcare due to race. As I continue my education on the way to becoming a practicing physician, I will remain aware of this problem. This is a change that I can actively contribute to as I become more involved in the healthcare world. I hope the progress I have made this year will set a framework for progress I can make throughout the rest of my life regarding world injustices. Throughout the next year, I will choose to use my personal abilities and opportunities to spark positive change. I realize that not one individual has the power to change the world, but rather many individuals working together while utilizing their personal abilities.