Final Course Reflection

Looking back at the goals I set for myself during the first part of this class, and I feel confident that I did achieve my goals. My goals included being thorough, timely, engaged, proactive, and organized. While this class had an intense research requirement and tested my time management skills, I recognized that early and was able to stay on top of everything. Each Monday morning, I would start my week by reviewing the instructions for each assignment to assess the amount of work required for each. I also looked for overlapping topics so that I could be mindful of the information that would be helpful for both as I was doing the research. My goal to be thorough was so that I could ensure I learned and mastered the concepts and material, but also in the hopes that my efforts reflected in my grades. To keep my Sundays free for leisure activities and downtime, I had to use my work time wisely, and I feel that I was successful in doing so nearly all the time. 
 
The sociological concepts that I have learned in this class have opened my eyes to many social issues that I had not considered before. Seeing things in the world around me through a sociological lens will make me more conscientious of the biases and systemic discrimination that are less obvious than the gross offenses that we all recognize. I have a new appreciation of sociologists and their value in enlightening those around them. 
 
I am grateful that my research skills have improved. While I would have previously considered myself an astute researcher before this class, the nature of the assignments has pushed me beyond my abilities where I now dig deeper, read more and keep better track of information and my sources. I will use these skills going forward and expect to continue to improve upon those skills.