Hello Cornerstone Students:
We would like to introduce ourselves to you since we will be working together over the next several weeks posting on our blog site. We have eight members in our Capstone group: Victoria Kania, Heather Wilson, Susanne Force, Rachel Findlay, Rikesh Patel, Nikki Swanson, Edison Quizhpi, and Kristin William. Our first posting to our blog will be each one of us introducing ourselves to you. Each week a different Cornerstone student will be posting questions to our blog and you will be responding. Our first blog consists of the following questions to get to know you a little better. Please answer in complete sentences and post to the blog. The deadline for your responses will be Thursday, February 9th by midnight.
Who are you? A brief bio about yourself. Majors/minor you are studying.
What do you like to do for fun? What are your hobbies
Name one unusual fact about yourself.
What don’t you understand about your major?
How do you explain IDS to others?
What do you feel are the advantages/disadvantages of an interdisciplinary education ?
Why did you choose the IDS program and what are your majors/minor?
We have a few suggestions that will hopefully help this to be a great experience for all.
Ø Please do not procrastinate and answer the blogs as quickly as possible. This will give the greatest opportunity for others to be able to respond to your blog. Each assignment has specific deadlines.
Ø Try to check our blog as often as possible, once a day would be a great idea.
Ø Please be patient and accepting of others culture’s, ideals, and opinions. We have a great opportunity here to learn so very much from each other.
Ø We will be happy to answer any questions that may arise from the blog assignments.
Ø Respect each other's ideas, feelings and experiences and be courteous when considering your peers' views and when responding.
We look forward to sharing ideas, career goals, information, and building an understanding of what the IDS program will be for you over the next couple of years.
Good luck in all of your endeavors!
Victoria, Heather, Susanne, Rachel, Rikesh, Nikki, Edison, and Kristin
Hello, my name is Kristen Williams. I am very excited to be mentoring you guys this semester, and look forward to this great experience. For fun, I love going to the beach or watching football and baseball and hanging out with my family. (P.S. GO PATS!) I am originally from New England, but moved to Florida because my dad was stationed here in the Air Force and have been here since. My majors are life and biomedical sciences and behavioral and social sciences. I plan on attending nursing school after I graduate and eventually becoming a nurse anesthetist.
ReplyDeleteThe IDS degree is a very unique but a great opportunity to become a well-rounded student. Most people only study one subject in college, but we get to study 2! Most people aren’t aware of what the IDS degree is, and I just tell them that it is an opportunity to study more than one subject, so as to be well rounded in the career path we ultimately choose.
I chose to become an IDS major because I was having trouble deciding what I wanted to do for a career and finding the right major that fit my interests. Then my friend told me about the IDS major, and how I could study more than one subject and I was immediately intrigued and went to visit an advisor soon after that. The rest, is history!
P.S. On another note, dont forget to COMMENT on the post, do not post another blog post as your comment. Thanks! :)
Kristy,
DeleteI like your definition for IDS. I have trouble explaining that to people so I will adopt your version if you don't mind. I fell into the major the same way, a referral from a friend who is currently in Capstone. I agree that this makes us well-rounded employable students. Nice to meet you!
-Cristina Albert
I also like your definition, it's a great way to describe IDS! I also had trouble in deciding what path I wanted to take and my athletic advisor introduced me to IDS and after researching and hearing about it, I was so interested and jumped right into it. I think it was one of the best choices I've made!
DeleteSpayne
Hi guys! My name is Nikki; I’m looking forward to working with and getting to know everyone. I’m originally from St. Petersburg but moved to Seattle in April due to a job transfer for my husband. My areas of study are Behavioral Sciences and Public Affairs with a minor in Writing. I hope to eventually work with domestic violence victims in either a counseling or court advocate capacity.
ReplyDeleteWhen not studying I love to travel, watch football, go to hockey games (although now if I want to go to a game we need have to go to Canada!) and spend as much time exploring the area we live in. Seattle and Washington in general is such an interesting and diverse place there is always a concert, festival, exhibit to check out.
Having a go-to description for IDS has been essential. The response that I give is that the program allows me to combine complimentary studies to create a more diverse and well-rounded degree.
I personally stumbled across the IDS program when researching different bachelor programs. I have always wanted to study Criminal Justice and Psychology and was at the point where a choice between the two needed to be made. When I learned of UCF’s IDS program everything fell into place. There was finally something that would allow me to combine both facets.
Best wishes!
Nikki
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DeleteHello Nikki,
DeleteI like your response to the purpose of an IDS program. I can not personally take credit for shifting into the program alone, the suggestion was prompted by a trusted mentor. At the time of the suggestion I had absolutely no idea what an Interdisciplinary major entail, but I did rationalize the idea of an interdisciplinary team as it pertain to different working environments. Thinking back to my clinical rotation days, interdisciplinary teams were often involved in cases concerning falls, discharge from long term care, and failure to thrive. As I rationalize the concept of this new field, it made more sense to me to define interdisciplinarity as the ability to draw knowledge from many different subjects or majors. Now, I can honestly provide an in-depth explanation of an interdisciplinary major.
Hello, my name is Susanne Force and I am looking forward to working will all of you and sharing about the IDS program. I am majoring in Physical Sciences, Behavioral/Social Sciences, with a minor in Public Administration. I would like to me a middle school science teacher; however, over the past couple of years I have taken a great interest in government relations and lobbying.
ReplyDeleteMy hobbies include creative writing, making floral arrangements, and taking walks by myself. I know that sounds funny, but with full time work, family, and school; that is a real treat. I am married and have three children. My oldest son is graduating from UCF this semester. Oh yeah, mom is graduating from UCF this semester. It has been a long five years, but I have learned and enjoyed so much along the way.
An IDS major is sometimes hard to explain to individuals when asked. The biggest question has been, "What kind of career or job can you get with a degree that has so many areas of study and not focused on just one?" I explain to them how I have been able to design my degree by having the opportunity to take other disciplinary fields and take that information to support what I feel is my career direction. For example, my career choice is being a middle school science teacher. Of course the area of Physical Sciences makes sense. I then tell them that from the Behavioral/Social Science area I have gained a greater understanding of personality types, behavioral/social disorders, and an awareness of cultural/ethnic differences. This can be used to understand my students better in helping me finds ways to respond to teaching styles and methods that will compliment their learning styles and help make them as academically successful as possible. The minor in Public Administration has given me a greater understanding and awareness of the public policies, human resources needed, fiscal management, etc. that public entities have to deal with to meet the social, educational, and economical needs of the public.
The advantages of an interdisciplinary degree is that it does afford you the opportunity to extrapolate knowledge from different disciplines to support you career goal. The disadvantage is that you will have to sell the degree to some potential employers. Traditional college education with a degree in one disciplinary is still the accepted "norm". You may have to continue with a Master's of Degree depending on the field you want to go into. I chose this major because the College of Education was too structured for me to be able to complete my degree. I work full time and the junior and senior internships required blocks of time that I could not do because I have to work. The IDS degree have given me more flexibility and choices in courses to make this possible.
Good luck in all of your endeavors this semester!
Hi Susanne!
DeleteI am interested in your path as an IDS student. Do you know what other qualifications or examinations it will take to allow you to teach? I thought about doing something like that, but wasn't sure I could with an IDS degree... Thanks for a great post!
Here's to a great semester,
Bethany Moore
Susanne,
DeleteI think it's very cool that you and your son are going to school together at the same time. It sets an example for your kids that you can never stop learning and can always improve your quality of life. I couldn't agree more with your choices of study to become a science teacher. Especially with the middle school age, behavioral science will completely benefit you and make you a better teacher AND mom. I have three teachers in my family and I think they can all agree it would have been in their best interest if they had some behavioral/social science training besides education. Best of luck!
-Cristina Albert
Hello Bethany:
DeleteYou can take the Florida Teacher's Certification exam in a specific subject area. For example, my major is in Physical Science. I can take the FTCE exam for grade school, middle school,or any science field for high school. Once you receive this certificate you would apply to the school district you are interested in working. However, you will still have to eventually take a few more courses actually in the College of Education. You have up to three years to complete a few core courses they will want.
Thanks,
Susanne
Hello Cristina:
DeleteI can't help but feel that teachers are more than transmitters of knowledge. They are needed as counselors, confidants, and at times they have to bring reality to a student and his or her family. Knowing how to identify learning styles and how to reach students with so many different type of personalities is essential and so very needed. This is why my education in Interdisciplinary Studies has been so helpful and rewarding.
Hi my name is Edison Tenezaca i am a first generation college student for my family. My two areas of concentrations are Health & Social Sciences and a minor in Business. I will be graduating this May of 2012 with my bachelors in Interdisciplinary Studies. After graduation i have 5 remaining pre-med sciences and MCAT to take. My goal is to start medical school next August. In the long run my ultimate goal is to be a Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon.
ReplyDeleteMy hobbies include fishing for cat fish by the Clermont area. I enjoy playing soccer with my friends and going to the gym. I have been working for Orlando Harley Davidson through out my college education. I have moved up from a sales associate to Assistant Manager for over two years now. I have the pleasure of meeting international customers and provide them with exceptional customer service and business. I have volunteered at Health Central Hospital for more than a year at Orthopedic Spine Unit as well. My volunteer experience gave me more of a push to enter the medical field.
When i mention Interdisciplinary Studies people are like what is that. I explain to them it is a major that is tailored to your specific areas of interest and long term goals. It provides the opportunity to acquire from different branches of knowledge and be well prepared. People after that mentioned that this was unique major and should have been offered during their education years. In my personal education i did not start off as an IDS major i was a Business Administration major before. As i stated above my volunteer time at Health Central gave me awakening that the medical field was my interest. I was pushed to the Business major by my parents so i did just to obey and please them. College is a time where you decide what you want to don’t get influenced by others or get pressured to do a major you do not like. In the long run you will be dissatisfied and want to just give up in your education. Also, i had the opportunity to be a medical intern at the NeuroSpine Institute led by Dr.Masson. I enjoyed spending the hours in the Operating Room and seeing how the staff members come together during time of surgery. As a result i changed to IDS i was able to take some medical courses that will prepare me for the MCAT exam. In addition, my Business minor will come to play later on when decide to open my own private practice.
Your IDS major will help you acquire your long term goals. It will provide you with different skills and assets you can contribute to a company. The hiring staff are looking for individuals that contribute to the expansion and growth of the company. IDS major will show that you have multiple skills and is well rounded. If by chance i do not get into medical school i can use my minor to acquire a management position in health care field. But this will not happen because i am determined to become a surgeon . A perfect example, the sky is the limit never give up on your goals stick through it. With my IDS major i was able to get a Business minor to satisfy my parents in one hand while in the other hand it is preparing me for medical school. I am sure you all have your reasons why you chose IDS as a major and best of luck in your career goals. We capstone students are here to help and will provide an answer with our full capability.
Hello Edison,
DeleteBest of luck to you! Determination is the essential element needed to successfully achieve your goals in life. Without such determination my desire to complete my Bachelor degree this year would have been a dream, instead of a reality. My concentrated fields of studies are Health and Life Biomedical Science with a Minor in Gerontology.
The questions and expressions I receive from relatives, associates, and friends are similar to what you experience when explaining Interdisciplinary Studies. I have to admit, the term was foreign to me as well. But prior to the Cornerstone class I surfed the net to get a better understanding of this new field I recently declared. I don't regret the switch, only a few weeks into the Cornerstone course and already I've gain a clearer understanding of the major. One area of focus was insufficient to represent my multifaceted background, primary reason why I don't regret the change.The IDS program identifies exactly who I am in terms of disciplines.
Are you a member or know of a professional organization/association for Interdiscipline majors?
Kerline Leonard
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHello! My name is Rachael Findlay and I am an Interdisciplinary Studies major with a minor in Health Sciences Pre-Clinical with two areas of study in Physical Sciences and Life/Biomedical Science. I am from Los Angeles, California and my number one hobby is traveling the world. My career goal is to become a Veterinarian specializing in small animal surgery.
ReplyDeleteAt first I became an IDS major in order to fulfill my plans in graduating on time but then I also began to research it more and it really gives you an array of freedom and opportunity to be multifaceted in your work studies and am extremely happy with my decision. I hope you take the time in your cornerstone course to really explore what it is you want to do with your future and learn how to implement actions now in order for these goals to surface by the time you are ready to graduate!
Hi Rachael, I also want to become a veterinarian. I want to specialize in equine sports medicine and if for some reason that does not work out, I am also interested in working with marine animals. I just started taking science classes this semester and I am actually so excited to finally be starting them. I realized that I enjoy my science classes so much more than my classes in communications and business. I decided to become an interdisciplinary studies major for a similar reason as yours. I realized I wanted to major in the sciences, but I had already taken so many classes that did not pertain to my major at all. How do you feel that graduate schools feel about this major? Also can you offer any advice about getting into vet school?
Delete-Randi Owen
Hello Rachel,
DeleteLike you, I change my major to Interdisciplinary Studies in order to graduate this year. Because of an unexpected interruption in my career goal I was forced to forestall graduating from the nursing program in 2011. Repeating the demanding requirements of the nursing program was not an option I wanted to entertain. So, the suggestion to become an IDS major came from a trusted mentor at UCF. My fields of concentration are in Health Science and Life Biomedical Science, with a minor in Gerontology. I decided to supplement my Sociology background with a minor in Medical Sociology. Cornerstone is really helping me in many different avenues, particularly in preparation for graduate studies.
Kerline Leonard
Kerline,
DeleteI was also advised by my mentor to switch to Interdisciplinary Studies ironically the last year before I actually graduate. Much hadn't really changed since I completed most of my courses already and everything just seemed to fall into place but it definitely still is keeping me on track to graduate in May. I am happy that you got advised to do so earlier than I had been. Cornerstone should help you prepare for graduate studies as you said, as you will be preparing documents that may be useful in future interviews and opportunities!
Rachael Findlay
Randi,
DeleteI am so happy to hear that you want to become a Veterinarian! There are not many of us here at UCF that do. I wish I could tell you how graduate schools feel about Interdisciplinary Studies as a major because I myself have been asking the same question especially since I just changed it to IDS less than a year ago. However, I see it as a bonus especially because they see that we are educated in many different areas that still have majority to do with health. You should check out the Pre-Veterinary Society, meetings are held on Wednesdays usually around 7 pm. Veterinarians come in to share stories, you get easier access to shadowing and job opportunities as well as volunteer opportunities, trips to UF, Animal Kingdom,SeaWorld, etc. I would start to get as much experience as you possibly can, one by joining the club, and secondly by starting to volunteer at SPCA etc. so that when it comes time to applying to graduate school and applying for jobs and animal hospitals your resume will be amazing and you will be more than qualified and ahead of the game!
Rachael Findlay
Hey everyone! My name is Rikesh and I am originally from Port St Lucie, FL. My two areas of study are Behavioral and Social Studies, Biomedical Sciences and my minor is in Health Science. Our degree plan allows a wide array of options for either jobs or post bachelor degrees. The cornerstone class really opened my eyes to just how great this degree plan actually is. I look forwards to working with you all this semester and good luck!
ReplyDeleteHello Rikesh,
DeleteMy minor is also Health Science! Your cornerstone class should really prepare you for what you want to do with your degree. I hope you take the time to really thoroughly do what is required because many of these assignments will be useful to you in the future!
Rachael Findlay
I agree, the Cornerstone class is making me so much for interested in IDS than I was before. It's already taught me so much and we're not even halfway through the semester. This class will definitely be helpful in the long run!
DeleteSpayne
Hello to all. I am excited to get to know all of you this semester. My name is Victoria Kania and I am a senior this year and expect to graduate this Spring. Currently, I live in Clermont, Florida with my husband and our little dog, Boo. I have been working in the financial industry for several years and fianlly decided it was not my passion in life. I decided to return to school and study Theater in hope of becoming a teacher or professor. Unfortunately half way through my husband broke his back and I had to return to work full time. This accident interfered with my studies and driving to East Orlando. I spoke with my counselor and she suggested IDS. This was the greatest decision and has become a stronger degree than what I planned. My major is Psychology and Education with a minor in Theater. I have gained so much experience with teaching and understanding how people think. My IDS degree has offered more than I expected and the outlook seems to be fantastic. I look forward to getting to know everyone this semster and hearing your stories.
ReplyDeleteVictoria,
DeleteI was also advised to change my major to IDS when I encountered some troubles, and at first I thought of it as any way to finish on time and graduate. However, like you said, I have also realized that my IDS degree has offered more than I expected. Take the time in your cornerstone course to really start preparing for your future endeavors whether it be graduate school, work, etc. Start planning and executing now!
Rachael Findlay
Hi, I am Bethany. I am completing a Bachelor in Sciences with my Major in Biology and Chemistry, and my Minor in Health Sciences. I am pursuing a career in dentistry, with applications currently in for dental schools. I am also recently engaged! I work as a server, outside of school, and cannot wait to take the next steps in my life, and career. When not at work and school, I like to spend my time with my dog, Rob, or doing yoga. The only thing “unusual” about myself is that I am a vegetarian, but even that is pretty normal now-a-days.
ReplyDeleteIn terms of Interdisciplinary Studies, I think it’s a great way to be well-rounded, and explore areas outside of a particular major. I thought it was the best way to prepare me for professional school and a career, while still completing required coursework for admittance into a professional school. I was a Biology Major majority of my college career to complete necessary prerequisites for admission into dental school, but found little correlation with my career aspirations, and IDS filled that void. One of the best advantages of IDS is that it brings many more opportunities and options to a graduate, as opposed to a major with one specific focus. The only possible disadvantage could be with interviews or admissions as an IDS major may not appear as competitive in terms of coursework versus other applicants with more specific majors. In my case, I have all the coursework of a Biology major along with my Interdisciplinary track and Health Sciences minor. I think this makes me a more competitive, and well-rounded applicant.
Hi Bethany, Congratulations on getting engaged! I am trying to get into graduate school as well, but I want to become a veterinarian. I am very interested in classes in the sciences, and much more so than classes in my two other areas of focus (communications and business). I think communication and business skills will look good for future employers, but what is your opinion on being an Interdisciplinary Studies major as opposed to a Biology major and getting into the DVM program for graduate school. Also good look with your Dental school applications!
Delete-Randi Owen
Bethany,
DeleteYou are more than qualified for Dental school regardless of your major as long as you have the grades and the experience and hard work you will be just fine. My sister just recently got accepted to USC, Columbia, and about three other top notch schools with a 3.5 GPA because she had fulfilled all the requirements and went above and beyond. Although IDS as a major is not Biology or M&M they will still see that you are, like you said, a well-rounded applicant!
Rachael Findlay
Thanks Randy! Since I have all the background of a Biology major, just with even more credits in another subject area (Health Sciences), I am hoping it makes me look more qualified, mature, and hard working. I have taken all classes recommended by dental schools, and have taken classes necessary for a good score on the Dental Admissions Test. Honestly, I am loving the IDS major much more than the Biology major. That can be quite boring.
DeleteHere's hoping for the best,
Bethany Moore
Thank you Rachael!
DeleteThanks for telling me about your sister! That is really encouraging! The application process can be a very long, hard, and discouraging process. Looking at statistics I tend to feel "average" with my GPA and scores. Although, I know they are good I want to feel "competetive". I am hoping going the extra mile with getting extra credits in an additional subject area will help me. If not, I am finding it very interesting.
Here's to a great semester!
Bethany Moore
Hi Everyone! I am excited about my first blogging experience, and sharing it with ya'll!
ReplyDeleteMy name is Natalie Nicole Thomas; most people don't introduce themselves with two first names, but that is my unusual fact. Growing up, I was deemed Nicole (no clue why) and now as I move on in life, it isn't worth explaining that I 'like' to be called Nicole. I think it is a brilliant conversation starter and if it weren't for my two first names, I wouldn't be...well, ME! I enjoy exercising, sporting events, reading and as of lately, I am seriously addicted to Pinterest-check it out! My Majors are Biomedical science and Physical/Life science; minor is in Health science. I am an IDS major because the possibilities are ENDLESS! I intend (as of now) to graduate with my BS from UCF, and then head on to earn my Masters as a Physician Assistant. When people ask me about my degree choice, I explain that IDS serves as a palate of possibilities. It is a degree that is producing students who have the knowledge necessary to deal with today’s issues in new, "out of the box" ways. Instead of looking at a problem from the obvious angle, IDS trains us to see it from multiple angles and identify effects that may not have been seen before. I look forward to blogging with each and every one of you, Thank you!
Hello Natalie Nicole:
DeleteWelcome to Cornerstone! Believe it or not, the time will pass quickly and you will be in your last semester before you know it and completing the Capstone course.
I have several nieces who go by two names; Billy Mae, Sally Ann, and Wendy Sue. I know what you a probably thinking. Wow, that's about as country as it gets. On the contrary, they are all brilliant young women with Bachelor and Master degrees in Public Administration, English Literature, and Math.
I absolute agree with you and think your explanation of what the IDS program is about is right on. It allows us to draw from several disciplines information, skills, and insights that have endless possibilities. The hardest thing I have found with the IDS program is the connection with other students. Other disciplines have specific groups or clubs. I would recommend connecting with any IDS activities that are presented to you to build those connections.
Assignment 2 will be posted Friday morning. Good luck this semester!!
Susanne
Hello everybody! My name is Travis Burnett. I am from the east coast of Central Florida and moved to the Orlando area a little over a year ago. My major areas of study are Health Science and Physical Science and I have a Music minor. I am a pretty easy going person, but I am also an adrenaline junky. I enjoy activities as simple as going to the beach, watching movies, roller skating and shopping to activities with a bit more of an adrenaline rush such as water skiing, surfing, bungee jumping and sky diving. I am also a singer and I love to play the piano as well. Something that most of my friends tell me they find unusual about me is that I used to rodeo. I don’t look the type I guess or act the part. But yes! I used to ride horses and rope cattle. I did the whole nine yards.
ReplyDeleteNow that I have become an IDS major a lot of my friends and family wonder what in the world that means. I usually explain the major to them by explaining that IDS allows me to tailor my education to fit what I am most interested in. I let them know that as an IDS major I can educate myself in more than just one area of study so that I get a more comprehensive education. Luckily there isn’t anything I feel that I don’t understand about my major, so it is easy to talk to people about it when they ask.
One of the major advantages of an interdisciplinary education is that it allows me to, as I stated, delve into different areas that interest me. It also prepares me and gives me more skills than someone who focused only, for example, on health science or only on physical science as those are my two areas of study. Being an interdisciplinary student, I am able to work in both of those areas and thereby gain somewhat of an advantage in the professional world. Honestly I don’t see the disadvantage of an interdisciplinary education. I think it makes me more of a rounded individual and keeps my mind sharp. I love that I get to work different areas of my brain all the time, and I love that I can see the world through multiple perspectives because of this. I actually chose the IDS major because I was originally a nursing major and then changed my mind and wanted to go to medical school. I was searching for a major that could take my myriad of classes and hopefully use them to get my Bachelors in a timely manner so that I could continue on the medical school. I look forward to reading all of the interesting blogs that I'm sure we all will post through this semester.
Sincerely,
Travis Burnett
Hello Travis:
DeleteIt seems like you have a passion to do a lot of things in life. That is a quality that you need to hold on tight too. Interestingly, the arts are one of the six subject areas in which the College Board recognizes as essential in order to thrive in college. Music majors comprise the highest percentage of accepted medical students.
Our society and culture is experiencing growth at a global level. It will take R-brain thinkers (the dreamers and doers) to carry us into the next century. For an individual to communicate on a global level, they can no longer draw ideas from and share experiences from a one-dimensional viewpoint. It will take the understanding and experiences from various disciplines to solve issues and meet the needs of our expanding society.
You have a good concept on what IDS studies are about. Be a sponge, and absorb as much as you can over the next couple of years.
Assignment 2 will be posted Friday morning.
Good luck.
Thank you for sharing a great 1st post.
Susanne
Hello Fellow Cornerstone Classmates and Capstone Mentors! My name is Kerline Leonard. My major is Interdisciplinary with emphasis on Health Science and Life/Biomedical Science. Last semester I completed my minor in Gerontology. I am now seeking to earn a minor in Medical Sociology. I want to further my career in the health care field and social services by earning a master’s degree soon after graduation this summer. As of now, I’m in the preparation process of applying for admission into two graduate fields of studies (Gerontology and Social Worker). I am looking forward to graduation this summer, it has been long overdue.
ReplyDeleteMy decision to change my professional track of study came after an unprecedented medical withdrawal from the nursing program in my senior year. I spent the time off recuperating and re-evaluating my career choice. Nonetheless, I am interested in the medical and public healthcare setting, specializing in providing care and services to the aging population. The majority of course work I have completed as an Undergraduate all relate to the healthcare setting and Gerontology. Medical Sociology is an extra additive to combine my knowledge of societal beliefs and concerns as it relates to health and illnesses.
I have to admit, Interdisciplinary as major was baffling and indescribable in terms and perspective. I found it quite difficult to explain what it meant and what type of jobs an Interdisciplinarian could apply for or occupy. I did my own personal research on the field before commencing cornerstone to get a better understanding of the field, but felt unequipped to answer the majority of questions concerning the specific focus of an Interdisciplinary major. But, glad to say one third of the semester into cornerstone I have acquired enough knowledge into the field to answer basic questions from relatives, associates, and curious individuals.
Kerline Leonard
Hello Kerline!
DeleteIt seems like you have your understanding of our major pretty much figured out! Its nice to see that you will be graduating fairly soon after taking the cornerstone course. I, like yourself am also a Health science/ Biomedical science major. I am wanting to get into Physician assisting, and for you wanting to get your masters and already know what exactly you want to get into is amazing!
Its unfortunate that you had to withdraw from the nursing program under such circumstances, but its also great that you could take the time off to consider such a major like our.
Assignment 2 will be posted Friday morning.
Best of luck to you this semester and if you need anything dont hesitate to let us know!
Hi Kerline!
DeleteI, too, have had a long road on my journey to graduation. I spent majority of my time at UCF as a Biology major, only to change to an IDS major for my last three semesters. I am really enjoying the exploration of differing subject areas and fields. I think it really is the best way to explore your options for post-graduation. It seems like your field may be very competetive, do you think the IDS major will make you seem less competetive than an applicant with a specific major? Or, what specifically makes you more competetive as an IDS major?
Here's to a great semester,
Bethany Moore
Capstone mentors, please provide any information on atleast two professional clubs or organizations that are useful to Interdisciplinary majors.
ReplyDeleteThank you,
Kerline Leonard
Hello everyone my name is Erica, I was born and raised in Orlando, FL. I went to Valencia College for two years before coming to UCF. My Major areas are health and commerce with a minor in fitness training. I’m a pretty laid back, easy going person I love going to the beach and the movies. I am an attraction attendant at Islands of Adventure, but I can’t wait to get a job in what my studies are in. I don’t know if it’s unusual, but in march I would have been on 20 cruises at the age of 21; my dad loves cruises so my family have been going on cruises since I was little.
ReplyDeleteWhen people ask about my major I tell them I’m doing IDS, which is that you get to pick two majors of study to become a well rounded student instead of just studying one major. What I love about IDS is that it brings so many possibilities and you not just limited to one thing. The reason that I choose IDS is because I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to become so by doing two majors it allows me to pick from a list of professions instead of having to only be able to pick from one or two professional careers.
Hi Erica!
DeleteIm glad you enjoy and know a lot of our major! I too went to Valencia for two years before transferring to UCF, Its crazy that you've been on so many cruises! Our major definitely makes you a well rounded person. It gives you the option to choose many different career options.
Its great having you in our mentoring group and I hope you have a great semester!
Good luck and keep an eye out for Assignment 2 tomorrow.
Hi, my name is Randi Owen and I am a sophomore. I was born and raised in Florida. I grew up in West Palm Beach, but moved to Orlando when I started college. One of my main hobbies is horseback riding. I have been riding and showing horses for seven years and I hope to be able to incorporate this passion into my career. I want to become an equine sports medicine veterinarian or possibly work with marine animals. I enjoy volunteering/learning about animals and visiting zoos. For fun I also just enjoy spending time with friends and trying new foods. My major is Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Communications and Biomedical Sciences, and a minor in Entrepreneurship. I became an Interdisciplinary Studies major because when I first came to UCF I thought I wanted to major in Advertising/Public Relations. After taking many classes in this field, I realized that was not at all what I wanted to do. I wanted to pursue a career in science and begin taking science classes, but I did not want to have to basically start from scratch. Shortly after signing up to be an Interdisciplinary Studies student, I realized that I wanted to attend vet school and become a veterinarian. I only have a few more business classes to take and then I can focus completely on the sciences and vet school. However, I have to admit that I am still considering changing my major to Biology because it is only about two classes difference and I am wondering what would look better on a graduate school application. So, I guess what I do not understand about my major is how it would be viewed for graduate school admissions into the DVM program. I explain IDS to people by telling them it is a way to take classes in different areas you are interested in without having to double major. You can basically tailor your major and classes to meet your needs and interest. IDS allows you to become efficient in many different areas rather than focusing on one discipline. I think that interdisciplinary studies can make you better prepared for the real world. For instance with my areas of study, communication and business skills always look good to a future employer.
ReplyDelete-Randi Owen
Hi Randi
DeleteWelcome to Corner Stone and congrats on choosing IDS as you degree at UCF. I am kinda of your situation with my degree. I started of being a Business Admin then realized i did not want to do business but medical as well. I completed my minor in business and took a few science classes for medical shool. I am aware that when applying ot graduate school it may cause u concern or doubt. Graduate schools prefer that students have a mjor that fit them instead of tradiational biology, chemistry majors. As result, this allows for diversity in medical school or vetinary school. i would recommend for you to acquire some experience in the vetinary field. You could shadow a vetinarian and ask for recommendations from other students that are seeking admission to vetinary school. As a long as you have plan and are focused nothing can stop you a NO just means try harder next time. You have made it this far just keep going the extra mile. If you need more questions just ask as we are here to help.
Assignment 2 will be posted Friday morning.
Best of luck to you this semester and if you need anything dont hesitate to let us know!
Hello, my name is Cristina Albert. My focuses are Art, Biomedical/Life Science with a minor in Health Science. I haven't been a student at UCF since 2007 so I'm just getting back into the swing of things, including time management. I realize this is late but I just want to introduce myself anyway. I've always had a background in art and that's what I majored in my first round at UCF. I'm a make-up artist so I did make use of those skills, but I find the need to help people in a more direct way. I'm thinking of attending graduate school in the future for nutrition, but also the field of health administration is growing so I'm interested in learning more about that. I love to cook healthy food, workout, and research the ultimate way to live a healthy lifestyle so I can share it with everyone I know and end this ridiculous trend of obesity. Looking forward to working with all of you.
ReplyDeleteSincerely,
Cristina Albert
Hello, my name is Spayne Avant. I am focusing in physical science and biomedical & life sciences with a minor in health science. I am from Dallas, Texas and I've been at UCF since Fall of 2010, so I am a sophomore right now. My hobbies, or should I say hobby is soccer. I play for the UCF women's soccer team, so it takes up most of my time leaving no time for other hobbies really. When I do have time I love to shop and bake, though! An unusual fact about me, my name is Spayne (like Spain the country), that is pretty unusual I guess! To me IDS is a major that you can combine two fields together, related or unrelated, into one major. A major advantage for IDS students is definitely Cornerstone and Capstone classes that are required. These classes are very helpful in academic and career planning, that most other majors have to complete in their spare time, rather than in class time like IDS students. I chose IDS because you can relate unrelated fields, if necessary. It gives you a chance to do exactly what you want to do instead of having limits to what you can do within a regular major. I am looking forward to working with yall (it's a Texas thing)!
ReplyDeleteLove,
Spayne