Introduction
As an individual who has navigated multiple stages of education - from community college to a PhD - I often reflect on what changes I might make if I could return to university. This reflection not only includes courses I would have taken differently but also degrees I would consider adding to my academic profile. In this article, I explore my thoughts on these matters and discuss the keywords that sum up my reflections.
Would You Change Your Classes?
One of the most significant realizations during my educational journey is the impact of certain courses on my career satisfaction. My love for statistics and research methods has been instrumental in my success, leading me to take more classes in these areas to make my sociology degree more marketable. However, there are a few things I would change in my community college course load, particularly in the areas of mathematics and programming.
Mathematics: The Importance of Honors Calculus
Undoubtedly, one of my biggest regrets is not starting the math sequence earlier, specifically honors calculus. This class was crucial for understanding statistical models that analyze change over time, a skill that has proven invaluable in my current career. Had I taken this course, I would have been better equipped to tackle advanced statistical analyses. The impact of this class on my ability to understand complex data sets cannot be overstated.
Programming Basics: Empowering Logical Thinking
Another area where I would make changes is in programming. Gaining even a few basic programming skills in a structured environment would have been incredibly beneficial. While I have learned to code Stata and a bit of SAS, learning more generic programming languages would enhance my ability to adapt and learn additional programming languages. Structured programming classes in introductory courses would have provided a solid foundation and made my life easier in the long run.
Anticipating Future Needs
In hindsight, I realize that I lacked the foresight to anticipate the importance of these skills when I was in community college. At the time, I focused on the quantitative aspects of sociology without fully grasping the critical role that advanced mathematics and programming would play in my future career. Although I do not regret the decisions I made, I wish I had heeded the doubts and addressed these gaps.
Adding New Degrees to My Academic Profile
Looking towards the future, I would be delighted to explore courses and degrees outside my current field of study. My fascination with physics and my interest in jurisprudence are two areas where I see potential for growth and expanded knowledge.
Physics: A Fascinating Field
Physics holds a special place in my heart, and I often find myself curious about the underlying principles that govern our universe. If given the opportunity, I would embark on a new degree in physics. This would enrich my understanding of the scientific world and provide a valuable contrast to my social sciences background. Adding a physics degree would not replace the education I have already earned, but rather enhance it with a broader perspective.
Jurisprudence: Broadening legal and ethical knowledge
Furthermore, considering a degree in jurisprudence would allow me to deepen my understanding of legal and ethical frameworks. This could be particularly beneficial in the interdisciplinary aspects of my work, especially when dealing with research involving ethical considerations or legal implications. Additionally, such a degree would provide a foundational knowledge of law that could be applied in various professional contexts, including academia and consultancy.
Conclusion
Reflecting on my journey, I have learned that education is a continuous process, and there is always room for improvement. By making changes in the classes I took and exploring new degrees, I can refine my skills and expand my knowledge base. Whether it is honing my mathematical and programming skills or delving into the fields of physics and jurisprudence, my future academic endeavors will be driven by a desire for growth and discovery.