When I first arrived at the career workshop, I thought I would already know everything they had to present to us. I knew that I should update my resume with my achievements frequently, but also keep the descriptions short and succinct. However, at the workshop, I was surprised to learn that in addition to resumes, most employers also ask for a cover letter. I realized that a cover letter is meant to introduce yourself to the employer and present yourself to be the best possible candidate for the job; it is an integral part to a job application.

The career workshop also touched upon job interviews; a tip I found useful was that you should have a hidden resume. During a job interview, it’s best if you do not repeat what is already on your resume. Bring something new to the table. I strive to present myself as a well-rounded person in interviews. I think it is important to show academia, such as my interest in mathematics and finance, but also show my versatility in other areas, such as dancing and singing.

This workshop showed the many aspects in which employers consider potential employees, and highlighted the things that I would need to work on for future job applications and interviews. It was a helpful experience, and hopefully, I will use my newfound knowledge soon.

Anthropology class is a class where we learn about the importance of the chimpanzee and bonobo and how their life in the tree was critical to our development as humans. In an interesting way at least. When the man from the writing center came to teach us about topic sentences, I felt like a mindless chimp. When given the proper cue, I’d raise my hand and read a text. The difference between me and a regular chimp, was that I knew the material already, I was a smart chimp. That was the atmosphere of the entire class. It wasn’t fair for the teacher since we were used to our anthropology teacher’s booming voice and teaching style who could go the whole class without us speaking once. The man from the writing center should have tried some group discussions to keep us on our toes. Instead, most of the class piggy-backed off the same five students participating, who were actually saving the class from long awkward silences, something our anthropology teacher wouldn’t allow.

I arrived at the FUSION GIM just in time for the explanation of the things they’ve done and the values they possess as a club. FUSION is a club dedicated to Filipino cultures and traditions. However, what had really intrigued me in the club was Confusion, the Filipino dance team. They showed us a video of play that showcased Filipino culture using different genres of dancing, including hip hop. I was at the interest meeting with a couple of my high school friends. At our school, we experienced SING!, which is a student produced musical that also features different modes of dancing that emphasize a theme. The video reminded us of our passion of hip hop dancing, and using dance as a form of communication to convey a message to the audience.

When I dance, I am brimming with energy and feel at home with fast tempo songs. So when they showcased a choreography to the upbeat song of Runaway Baby by Bruno Mars, my jaw dropped as I watched with awe that this was exactly what I had come for. My enthusiasm was welcomed dearly by one of the choreographers who allowed my friends and I to attend a rehearsal later that very day!

One of the many highlights of my day was stumbling upon the choreographer who was to teach that night, Rica (shown above). She introduced me to other club members, and encouraged me to reach out to her for more opportunities for hip-hop. At rehearsal, her unique and wavy style reminded me of the rush of pushing my boundaries and stepping outside of my comfort zone. My passion for hip-hop led me to those who shared the same interest and I was rewarded with the simple joy of dancing.