letter of introduction.
As newly admitted student, I came to UW intending to major in Design, but quickly discovered that while I have always loved art and being creative since I was young, the major was not something I felt connected to. After this realization, I began exploring different majors and possibilities of what I wanted my future career to be rooted in. With all the areas that I am constantly seeking to understand more, my academic life became confusing as I had very little idea on how to narrow down these areas of interest. However, through a stroke of luck and word of mouth, I eventually learned about Community, Environment, and Planning. Very quickly, I realized that CEP was a place in UW that I could fully see myself immersed in, a place where I could be encouraged to self-direct my education through interdisciplinary skills amongst like- minded people who are equally curious and steadfast in their personal education. Since being part of CEP, it has become a place where I can continue to explore much of what I am passionate about and it encourages me to bring these attributes into the community and environment I am part of. It is the educational experience where I could explore so many different subjects and areas of interest through a lens of my own, while focusing on and learning about aspects of community.
Something that I have always carried from a young age is my love for stories. It was why I love the creatives arts in whatever medium it takes— from books, to paintings, to music, and film. The experiences people encounter and the way they perceive them are what I am constantly trying to understand and appreciate. Since I have always been a lover of the arts, I am drawn to how art and creative connection can foster a better space for community and bring people together, which is something I have explored through my education. This line of thinking has been a big part of my Senior Project idea and has also been a driving force behind my involvement with the Communications Committee .
Being a part of my remarkable and dedicated cohort has given me a community where space is cultivated by my peers and friends, and supported by everyone’s earnestness to be honest and thoughtful in pursuit of lifting each other's voices as we navigate together the intricacies our major has to offer. It is an incredible environment to be part of and I am in constant awe by the determination of my friends to constantly challenge the status quo, speak up against injustices both big and small, and bring to our little community an immense amount of love, encouragement, and friendship. It is a community I am grateful for and cannot imagine having spent my UW life immersed in anything else. I’ve learned to view human connection in a different way, and they’ve enforced my love for people and stories. When you navigate through this site, you'll e able to see the intentions I've set throughout my academic career, which I have outlined in my course plan, my reflection on any internship, volunteer, and extracurricular experiences— all which have contributed to an extremely well-rounded undergraduate experience. These are lessons and practices that have been integral in my academic, professional, and personal growth over the past few years, and will continue to serve as the roots of my own personal story.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Sincerely,
Susue