Freshman Seminar Spring 2011: F6A

Thoughts to Consider for Reflective Writing

Great art and architecture can trigger new and exciting emotions and ideas. While exploring the museum, allow your senses to lead you on a journey of discovery through the art of multiple world cultures and the museum’s peaceful environment. As you immerse yourself in the ambiance of the museum, think about the reflective writing that you’ve been engaged in throughout the semester.  How can these self-discovery exercises assist you in reflecting upon your experience at the museum?  How have you been progressing along on your journey of identity exploration? What new qualities have you been discovering about yourself? Here are some fresh perspectives that will help you strengthen the focus of your reflective writing piece:

• Look up at the roof in the giant spiral staircase, smell the intoxicating aromas from the café, challenge yourself with staring at a work of art for 30 seconds, etc.
  • How does this space make you feel?
  • Does it trigger any new ideas or thoughts?
  • Is this a space where you feel comfortable and belong, or do you feel uncomfortable and stressed out?
• What did you learn about yourself from being at the museum?

The museum has wonderful resources at www.rmanyc.org, a page on iTunes U. ‘Beyond Campus,’ and guides who are on the gallery floors to help you explore and answer questions.