Have you ever gone through an entire semester feeling like you haven't learned a single useful thing? I definitely have! This semester was actually one of the best experiences I've ever had in school, taking classes that I actually enjoyed. I learned so much, and I'm actually sad that it has to come to an end. While the list of things I learned this semester is never ending, here are the top five most important lessons I learned from my professors and classmates.
1. We have so much to learn from one another.
This semester, I had the opportunity to take classes where we actually had to talk to one another. Teachers didn't just lecture on for an hour and fifty minutes. Instead, they created environments where we felt free to speak up, ask questions, and share experiences. I can safely say that I probably learned just as much from listening to what other students had to say as I did from my professor.
So, if you ever get the chance to take a class where you are encouraged to participate, I strongly recommend that you take it. Participating doesn't always mean speaking up in class either -- being an active listener is just as important. Even if you don't have any room in your schedule to take a smaller, discussion-based class, you can still learn from the people you spend time with every day, as long as you're listening.
2. Big business is the root of all our problems.
No offense to any business majors out there, but I truly believe in this. Large corporations take advantage of people every day, but turn around and tell us that we would be nowhere without them. They influence politicians to push certain laws that only benefit the 1% by throwing a little bit of money their way.Corporations like Facebook took private information from its users and sold it. And when big businesses or banks get in trouble (take the 2008 economic crisis for example), tax payers are expected to bail them out. It's important that we become more aware of how involved big business really is in our everyday lives, and how we can take steps to take back our power.
3. We need to talk about race more in America.
Race is not a bad word, so we need to stop acting like it. Racism is real, segregation still exists, and sadly, a lot of us are still blind to it, especially in the political climate Americans are living in today.
I learned more about my privilege this semester than ever before and also about those who are still discriminated against based on the color of their skin. Now more than ever, it is so important that we address the issues facing minority populations and take serious steps to end them.
4. We need to give more than we take.
As a whole, Americans tend to do what's best for themselves, regardless of what others might need. We live in a conflict theory based society, where everyone is working against each other to get ahead. While that statement might not be true for everyone, it is definitely true about most. Taking little steps toward the betterment of all people, and taking a few minutes out of each day to help others will do the whole world some much needed good.
5. We need to stop complaining and start doing something about it.
When you think about it, we all have so much to be thankful for. We are lucky enough to be at college learning about topics that interest us and are developing a sense of independence. You have family and friends who love you, access to technology (how else would you be reading this amazing article?), and a brilliant head on your shoulders.
Too many of us spend so much time worrying and complaining about the little things that might cause inconvenience. We let those things dictate our mood and actions. Instead of sitting around feeling sorry for yourself, get up and do something about it!. You are capable of amazing things!
