TOPIC;;;Seeking knowledge and commitment to service are integral parts of the Spelman experience. Discuss and illustrate the ways in which you have shown your commitment to these areas.
Attainment of knowwledge is a gift. Gifts are meant to be shared. Seeking knowledge and commitment to service are integral parts of the Spelman experience. Spelman is an outstanding historically Black college dedicated to African-American women who desire to receive a higher quality education. Knowledge develops the intellectual, ethical, and leadership aspect of life. Service and knowledge are closely related for with service comes knowledge. When you gain knowledge, it is imperative that you understand. When you achieve that understanding you have the power to change the world, which applies to Spelman's slogan, "Spelman College-A Choice to Change the World." The ability to serve is a direct result of seeking knowledge.
Everyday I experience an opportunity to attain a vast array of knowledge, and I love it. Reading is by far the most essential method of seeking knowledge for me. In elementary school, I was involved in the Accelerated Reader (AR) program. It was a competitive program that encouraged students to read books and accumulate points to spend at the AR store. In fifth grade, I acquired the most points and received a bike. I was ecstatic about my accomplishment, and I continue to visit bookstores and libraries to gain knowledge. I credit my love of reading to the AR program.
This 2009 summer I had the pleasure of being involved in the 2009 Veterinary Summer Experience Program (VSEP).The Program's mission was to expose myself and eight others to the veterinary world. The application process was quite challenging. The application consisted of a lengthy packet that contained questions and background information to be sure that applicants were positive about entering the veterinary field. To qualify for VSEP I had to obtain recommendations, be a legal Tennessee resident, and be available for full time employment for eight weeks. I was employed full time at Walnut Grove Animal Hospital, a hospital in my hometown Memphis, TN, for seven weeks, there, I experienced clinical work. My responsibilities were that of a veterinary technician. I assisted in surgeries, such as spays, neuters, and eye enucleations. I also drew blood, filled prescriptions, and helped in customer service. I was committed to my duties as an employee.
The knowledge of recycling has been instilled in me. Recycling gives me the ability to serve the future by preserving, not wasting. As a full-time summer employee, at Walnut Grove Animal Clinic I made sure everyone recycled their plastic, cans, and bottles.
Knowledge of slavery and segregation in my past, as an African-American, drives me to research and develop an understanding concerning issues in my community. Obtaining knowledge from history books, of the women suffrage movement reminds me to always strive for the best. With this knowledge, I always remember the strives that women and African-Americans have made for me. With knowledge, I am always inclined to learn from my mistakes, and to never repeat them. Promoting peace in my neighborhood, by stopping smaller children from fighting, is a service to my community. I am dedicated to the preservation of a race of people who will be on the way to becoming extinct if they do not stop the killing. Seeking spiritual knowledge, I attend church which promotes my desire to serve. I know that seeking the kingdom of God comes first and additional things shall be added.
Two summers ago I volunteered at United Cerebral Palsy of the Mid-South, Kindercamp. United Cerebral Palsy is a national organization that strives to ensure the inclusion of persons with disabilities in every facet of society. I volunteered at Kindercamp 40 hours a week for eight weeks. It was a huge commitment that I took seriously, because the children were always astounded to see you. They would run up to you, and drag you away to show you their new toy or swimsuit. There were days when I was not feeling the best, but I promptly arrived to work to see those smiling faces. One child in particular, Tori, she was always joyful. Tori would laugh, and make the best out of every situation. There were often times when she would become frustrated, because she could not complete a task. I would have to discover another way to show Tori that she could do anything, and that she should not give up. Never give up, because you can do anything is often said in my family. I loved Kindercamp, and I would volunteer again. Kindercamp was by far the most rewarding service I have completed.
Henry David Thoreau once wrote, "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined." My sixth grade English teacher, at Delano Optional School, stated this quote daily to our class, and I never understood what it meant. After sixth grade I did not encounter the quote again until tenth grade year in my Balfour ring packet. I recognized it right away, and asked my English teacher, Ms. Hall, if she would allow us to write an essay on the meaning of Thoreau's words. My essay was about Spelman College. She shared it with every English class, and I was proud. I finally understood Thoreau's words. Now is my opportunity to live the life I have always imagined, Spelman College.
Tinadre Harris
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