Proficient Competency – Personal Foundation
Safe Zone Training
During a department wide social justice workshop, I became aware of some of my own attitudes, values, beliefs, assumptions, and biases. The exercise helped me realize I needed to develop my personal cultural skills and understanding around issues of gender and sexual orientation. Therefore, I participated in Safe Zone Training, which gave me a basic understanding of appropriate language, historical precedence, and challenges within the LGBTQ community. Moreover, we were able to discuss how intersecting identities impacted an individual’s development. By the end of the training, I was able to not only articulate my own beliefs regarding gender and sexual orientation, but also take “responsibility to develop personal cultural skills by participating in activities that challenge[d] [my] beliefs” (ACPA & NASPA, 2010, p. 24). Moreover, in reflection of this experience, by participating and reflecting on my own needs for personal and professional development in the social justice workshop, I was able improve my skills and understanding. Thus, I now can “recognize the importance of reflection in personal and professional development” (ACPA & NASPA, 2010, p. 24).
Healthier Living Goals
In spring 2014, I was hospitalized for blood clots in my lungs. Prior to this event, I paid very little attention to exercising or eating clean, and therefore was gaining weight quickly. According to my doctors, my weight gain and unhealthy life choices were contributing to my declining health. As a result, I began to eat healthier and committed to exercising four to five times a week. My beginning weight was 208lbs in August 2014 and just by eating healthier I lost eight pounds. I wanted to see more results, so I reached out to the Recreation Center on campus and enrolled in personal training sessions. I now have lost 32lbs within seven months. Moreover, my training sessions not only have taught me better exercise practices, they have also improved my knowledge in the human body and nutrition. My journey towards a healthier lifestyle has helped me recognize and “articulate healthy habits for better living” as well as “identify and employ resources to improve one’s own wellness” (ACPA & NASPA, 2010, p. 24).
