My Experience In Talking About Freedom

This semester has been transformative in ways I didn't anticipate when classes first began. Between learning to use AI effectively, engaging in thought provoking mock trials, and developing my voice as a writer through blog assignments, I've acquired skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Here are the three most valuable takeaways from my academic experience.

The usage and manipulation of AI

The most practical skill I developed this semester was learning how to work effectively with artificial intelligence.You get out what you put in. When you provide AI with vague instructions, you receive equally vague results. However, when you approach it strategically, AI becomes an invaluable productivity tool.

I began incorporating AI into my workflow by using it to transform research materials into presentation scripts and convert class notes into polished blog posts. The difference between mediocre and exceptional results came down to specificity. Rather than issuing generic commands like "write a blog post," I learned to provide detailed parameters: "Using these notes, write a professional 500-word blog post with clear subtitles for improved readability."

This approach has saved countless hours this semester, but the real value lies in understanding how to direct AI as a tool rather than depending on it as a replacement for critical thinking. This skill of knowing what to ask for and how to refine outputs will serve me well beyond my college years, particularly as AI continues to reshape professional landscapes across industries.

Mock Trials

Mock trials emerged as one of the semester's most enriching experiences. Whether actively participating or observing my classmates present their arguments, each trial offered valuable insights into the complexity of real-world issues.

What made these exercises particularly valuable was the requirement to examine each case through four distinct lenses: economic, political, religious, and ethical. This multifaceted approach revealed how rarely issues have simple solutions. The most compelling moments came when classmates argued opposing sides of the same case, both presenting genuinely persuasive arguments.

These experiences taught me an essential life lesson: most situations exist in shades of gray rather than black and white. Intelligent, reasonable people can reach vastly different conclusions based on their values, priorities, and perspectives. This understanding of nuance and the ability to genuinely consider multiple viewpoints will prove invaluable in professional settings, personal relationships, and civic engagement throughout my life.

Blog posts 

The blog writing assignments initially pushed me outside my comfort zone. Accustomed to formal academic papers, I had to adapt to a completely different style one that balances professionalism with approachability and personality.

Each blog post required translating complex course material into engaging, accessible content for a general audience. This proved far more challenging than traditional academic writing, yet it's arguably more relevant in our digital age. The ability to communicate sophisticated ideas clearly and engagingly is essential in virtually every career path, particularly as online communication continues to dominate both professional and personal spheres.

Moving Forward

As this semester concludes, I'm grateful for experiences that developed practical, transferable skills. Learning to leverage AI effectively, think critically from multiple perspectives, and communicate complex ideas accessibly will serve me throughout my career and personal life, making this semester truly worthwhile.