Introduction

Hello all,

My name is Karla Polanco and I am an English and History double major here at NDNU. As a senior, I have had a lot of time to reflect on myself, not only as a student but as a person. Apart from academics, I also have a passion for writing and illustration, and usually spend my time reading or working on story ideas. I like to think of myself as an analytical thinker, however, I often find myself thinking more emotionally or creatively. In terms of learning, I find myself a visual and tactile learner, constantly taking color-coded notes, preferring to be rather hands-on.

I feel as though, at least currently, due to COVID-19, I feel my life is in a tremendous period of stasis. Days frankly feel monotonous and I find myself challenged by the most simple of tasks. While I'm still trying to adjust to quarantine life, I find myself thinking about how deeply I rely on social contact with my friends. Even as an introvert, I notice that I become much more lively and exhilarated by simply calling or messaging them. I am trying to do better, so my days feel like they are progressing. 

I suppose in the grand scheme of things, I'm simply trying to complete my degree to continue on to graduate school. Although I would like to consider my path and work as being only for myself, my parents influence me quite a bit. While they are wholly supportive in whatever facet of academia I choose, I can't help but fixate on how I am the only one of their children to be pursuing a college education. It is a bit of pressure for me, and I always strive to go above and beyond in my studies. I would love to become a writer or an editor for a historical/scientific publication like National Geographic or perhaps a local newspaper. In terms of my career, writers are always in demand, though I'm sure journalism, and writing in general, will differ greatly from what it has been in the past, due to COVID. 

I'm simply trying to take it one day at a time, and I'm excited to learn with all of you this semester.