Trial-and-Error and the Cyclical, Harmonious Ecosystem of Learning ​

Throughout my time at the University of Washington, I have come to see education not just as a means to acquire knowledge but as a powerful tool to shape identities, foster connections, and drive meaningful change. This perspective has been shaped by pivotal moments of growth, grounded in values that I have continually refined: curiosity, intentionality, and the desire to create impact.

One of the most defining experiences during my academic journey was my involvement with Artitudes, a Seattle-based business specializing in creative communications coaching. Through this consulting project, I immersed myself in interdisciplinary learning, blending marketing strategies with real-world business needs. It was here that I began to truly understand the value of intentionality. Every decision—from pricing models to social media campaigns—required a deep alignment between the company's goals and the needs of its audience. This project exemplified how interdisciplinary work can push boundaries and spark innovation, a tenant of the Honors Program that I have actively embraced.

As a learner, I define myself by my pursuit of curiosity and my ability to see connections where others may not. I’ve always found that looking at things from a different perspective allows me to ask better questions and find more comprehensive answers. 

Reflection has been another cornerstone of my education. My experiences have taught me that growth often lies in discomfort, in moments when I’ve been pushed to rethink assumptions or navigate ambiguity. For instance, grappling with concepts in cognitive biases and their application to marketing was challenging at first, but it allowed me to see how seemingly abstract psychological principles directly shape consumer behavior. Reflection helped me connect these insights to actionable strategies, reinforcing the importance of critical thinking.

Experiential learning has been the catalyst for much of my growth. Beyond traditional classroom settings, I’ve sought opportunities that allow me to apply my knowledge in real-world contexts. This includes working as an intern and immersing myself in new, unfamiliar circumstances. These experiences not only solidified my academic learning but also equipped me with the skills to tackle complex, unstructured problems—a reality I know I will face beyond UW.

My portfolio is a reflection of these values, philosophies, and moments of growth. It is structured to guide the reader through interconnected themes of curiosity, impact, and intentionality. Each entry—whether it’s a project reflection or a personal narrative—serves as a piece of a larger mosaic that captures who I am as a learner and as a future professional. Getting the chance to reflect on my learning journey has given me a newfound sense of appreciation for the amount I have evolved over the past four years.

Looking forward, I am committed to continuing this journey of growth and discovery. I aim to carry these values into my professional life, striving to make my work not only meaningful but transformative. Whether it’s through marketing strategies that drive genuine connections or through advocating for more intentional and inclusive systems, I hope to leave spaces better than I found them. Education at UW has laid the foundation; now, it’s time to build on it.