The ultimate, long-term objective at Concordia College is to BREW (Become Responsibly Engaged in the World). Students, like myself, take a course called the capstone which is meant to be the final experience that gathers all the knowledge from the years spent at college helping us BREW. Neurochemistry has exceeded my expectations of the capstone experience. My experience so far, particularly in this class, has allowed me to attain the five goals set for us that are as follows:
Instill a love for learning
In this course, I have been able to learn about the chemistry and neuroscience involved in neurological diseases. There were limited assignments and tests, so completely the work and putting in the effort was up to me. It was easy to fall behind because it was not accessed if I had done the work or not. This started off being challenging at the beginning of the semester, but eventually I was able to motivate myself because I actually wanted to learn about the subject. This class heightens my interest in subjects like chemistry and psychology with relation to neurological disorders.
Develop foundational skills and transferable intellectual capacities
I have also picked up skills from taking this course. Throughout college, I have dreaded the moment a wordy academic article is placed in front of me. By taking this course, along with neurobiology the semester before, I was able to develop a system for reading these articles that worked well for me. I no longer have the dread of reading in-depth articles, instead, I have picked up a few on my own just to read about an interesting subject.
Develop an understanding of disciplinary, interdisciplinary and intercultural perspectives and their connections
This class has been relatable to many of the class I have taken. I have been able to connect certain subjects with topics I have learned in neurochemistry, anatomy and physiology, genetics, biochemistry, amongst others. The class had a range of students and their background of classes, I have been able to have the perspective of psychology and biology as well. There was always something to learn from each other in the open environment that was allotted in class. It was also interesting to think and learn about how these neurological disorders can be perceived in other cultures and how it differs or is similar to our own culture.
Cultivate an examined cultural, ethical, physical and spiritual self-understanding
This class has enabled me to learn a lot about myself. It has increased my interest in neuroscience, which I am now trying to minor in. It also has made me aware of how important exercise and diet is for keeping myself healthy, not only physically, but mentally as well. A major point for this class I have taken away is a better understanding of where I stand in relation to moral and ethical issues discussed in context with neurological disorders.
Encourage responsible participation in the world
Through the community out-reach project associated with this class and a Social Work course, I was able to participate in community awareness and decrease the stigma of mental health disorders. This was a great experience because it allowed up to activity plan, organize, and participate in a community project about something we cared a lot about.
Overall, my experience with neurochemistry has been one I will not forget. This class has further instilled my love for science courses and has allotted me a way to continue BREWing once graduated. I would highly recommend this course as a capstone.
My Capstone Experience
