First Year Seminar

So today I'm going to talk a little bit about one of Trinity's requirements, First Year Seminar. Now every First-Year has to take one, and the class is supposed to act as an "academic home" for whichever semester you have it. I have First Year Seminar this fall semester, and so far I love it! My First Year Seminar is called Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurial Behavior and it's tied with my Principles of Microeconomics class for my favorite class even though they are completely different. So far we have played with Play-Dough, drawn on walls, and just bodystormed like crazy. Bodystorming is a way to keep your energy up while brainstorming, it just requires you to be active with your body. So far the class is the sole reason why I have honed in on my creativity. Right now we are reading a book called "A Whole New Mind" by Daniel Pink. Warning, the book is very pro right brain, so if you have a clear left brain, read with caution. So far I am a fan of the book, it's enlightening and frankly makes me feel empowered as a right brained individual. One of my favorite classes was where we talked about Empathy and Play, two chapters in the book and we just drew pictures on the walls about a specific part of the book. This particular class was incredible because everyone was so into it. Our participation level is usually great, but that day was on a different level. The whole class was just firing through everyone, kind of like an intense therapy session for ideas instead of someones life. Another one of my favorite classes was where we talked about Story, a chapter in the same book. Instead of just summarizing the chapter and being boring, Dr. Martinez had us use the tools we had learned in the chapter Story, and then tell a story incorporating the tools. However, there was a catch! Improvisation. Everyone in the class had to create a cohesive story on the spot, and relate to what the person said before you, add a titbit on that held pertinence in relation to the chapter, and then leave enough information for the person after you to continue. I love speaking and being creative so this was perfect. So far, I have truly enjoyed my specific First Year Seminar and it has provided a great transition into college.

-Shivani