Wow, looking back on 5315 with Dr. Meeuswe and 5317 with Dr. Harrison, I can honestly say these two classes pushed me way out of my comfort zone, but in the best way possible. Both were challenging in their own ways, but they taught me so much about what I’m capable of and I couldn’t have made it through without my amazing group.
5317 was all about writing an article for submission. At first, I felt intimidated, like, “Do people actually write things this published?” I had to dig into the literature, refine my arguments, and accept feedback that wasn’t always easy to hear. It was uncomfortable, no doubt about it, but pushing through it taught me confidence in my academic voice and showed me that I could take on more than I thought.
Then came 5315, where the challenge was planning a study: research design, data collection, logistics, the whole shebang. Turning theory into a real plan felt overwhelming at first. I spent hours thinking through methods, anticipating problems, and making sure it all made sense. I had moments of “can I actually do this?” But each step reminded me that growth happens when you step into the uncomfortable zone.
Honestly, the real MVPs through all of this were my group, Wendy, Miranda, and Tamia. I don’t think any of us would have survived without each other. Case in point: one Sunday night at 11:45 PM, my phone buzzed with a text from them reminding me to submit my discussion board. I laughed, panicked a little, and then submitted it, thanks to them. Those little nudges, late-night brainstorming sessions, and honest feedback moments turned into something bigger than just surviving classes, they turned into friendship and trust that I know will last long past graduation.
But school wasn’t the only thing happening during this time, apparently my rabbit also decided it was the perfect semester to start a family. So, while I was juggling research articles, study designs, and group messages about assignments, I was also checking on a very pregnant bunny who is due any day now. Because clearly what every student needs is pending bunny labor.
Naturally, we’ve already picked out names. If all goes according to plan, the upcoming litter will be known as The Bourbon Babies: Jack Daniels, Johnnie Walker, and Buffalo Trace just to name a few!
Between late-night assignments, group texts, academic writing, and preparing for tiny bunny arrivals, this semester has been a wild ride. But it also reminded me that growth doesn’t just happen in perfect, quiet moments, it happens in the middle of chaos, laughter, and supportive people who have your back.
Both classes made me see that I’m capable of more than I give myself credit for. Writing an article, I was proud to submit, designing a study from scratch, asking for help when I needed it, these weren’t just tasks. They were opportunities to grow, to see that stepping out of my comfort zone isn’t scary, it’s empowering.
I also learned that collaboration makes challenges manageable, and even fun. Our group dynamic was a safe space to take risks, test ideas, and push ourselves in ways we couldn’t have alone. I’ve come away with new skills, yes, but also a deeper appreciation for the power of teamwork and community.
So, here’s my takeaway: growth happens when you push yourself, and it’s even better when you do it with people who have your back. 5315 and 5317 didn’t just challenge me academically, they sparked a recollection that there’s more to me than I thought, and that the right people make all the difference.
To Wendy, Miranda, and Tamia: I couldn’t have done it without you. And to anyone reading this: don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. It’s hard, sometimes messy, but always worth it.
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