Valerie Samuels

ALE (Applied Learning Experiences) Reflection

Tarleton RL&L

Within the Discipline

In my college courses, I have gained reliable skills that will benefit me for life. Military
science has provided leadership and development services in working as a team to accomplish a
common goal. Technical writing has helped in effective and proper written communication.
Biological and general statistics has enhanced my logistic outlook and critical thinking skills in
dealing with set tasks.
Beyond the Discipline
Time management is a major skill experienced within several of academic courses by
using time wisely for assignments, tests, and class projects. As a pre-medicine biomedical
science major, I believe that the physical and mental health in a person is very important for
overall wellbeing and success. In my classes I have found it beneficial to use networking skills to
efficiently communicate and work with people with the same interests and career goals.
Beyond Academics
Meeting new people has showed me how to be an open minded person. Each individual
has their own story and is unique in their own way. Just because they believe in something, does
not have the same mind set, or live differently than you do does not mean they should be judged.
With becoming an understanding person, this has contributed to better my professionalism when
dealing with different situations.
Interconnectedness
The qualities and knowledge presented above in Within the Discipline, Beyond the
Discipline, and Beyond Academics are used daily in the position as a Residential Leader (RL).
I realize that working in a team, working in a timely manner, communicating efficiently, and
being able to think on my feet has helped in my success as an RL. Being an RL, I had to learn to
keep myself mentally and physically prepared for any kind of situation. Not only have I become
an open minded and considerate person, but with these experiences I have improved as a
professional operative no matter what the circumstances.
Global Awareness
In the RL position I have met many international and foreign exchange students. They
have provided me with better insight of culture, politics, and the American lifestyle. Many of
them believe in the United States as the land of opportunity, in comparison to some of the
strict cultures in the world where they do not have that kind of freedom. I have also concluded
that Americans are not as considerate of a countrys culture, not like a foreign traveler visiting
the United States. International students try their best to fit in to the community and learn as
much as they can about the American life style. On the other hand, it disappoints me that many
Americans that travel to a foreign country do not do that same.
Broader Implications
Through my experience as an RL I have noticed a lot of hidden characteristics of society.
I have realized several people on campus belong to the LGBT community. The increase in this
area has made me understand that there are plenty of supporting allies benefiting the community.
I also did not believe domestic violence to be a prominent issue, but this is more common than
people think. Domestic violence is seen as a silent symptom in relationships, and the victims in
these situations usually take no mind to it or ignore it; this is dangerous for an individuals
health. These issues are not just seen on school campuses, but in the real world today.