Having intellectual independence. Asking questions. Being a
skeptic.
These are just few of the qualities any critical thinker
attains. The undergraduate dean and my favorite speaker thus far, Dr. Lubach,
gave some advice that I know will truly stick with me for the next four years
and in the future. Sure, he was a captivating speaker, but he was essentially
trying to water the seed that all UCSB students have been planted with. We are
all smart and talented; that’s a given. However, to stand out as an individual
in this high-performance research institution, we must expand our minds down
either end of the spectrum. Whether we want to study botany or become a master
of the saxophone, if we ask questions and doubt the facts/truth, we’ve already
made the first step in growing to be efficient critical thinkers. I loved his
final note about having true balance in all aspects of our Gaucho life –
ultimately, we have to work hard and play hard. It was inspiring and motivating
for me to see current UCSB students and alumni being the ones that are asking
questions, being skeptics, and declaring intellectual independence in our world
today.
On Friday’s visit to the library, I learned about the hidden
gems the library and its resources have to offer. I was surprised to hear about
all the books, articles, and even music records we have at the tips of our
fingers. Having subject and course searches online along with a 24 hour help
service by a librarian make finding certain resources easier and more reliable
because it efficiently narrows down the searches. All in all, the visit made me feel more
comfortable with my future in research and more confident in my school’s
resources.
Definitely wish our UCSB library catalog was this helpful!
Totally agree with what you said here! Especially like what you said about Lubach "watering the seed." It's true that everyone who made it to UCSB is already intelligent, this critical thinking idea is like being introduced to the "big leagues." It's an entire different concept we're being asked to preform, and it feels like it will play a large role in our success here at a top research university. I also liked that you brought research into the idea of critical thinking, because it's so relevant. I also liked what he said about balance. If you get too caught up these intense critical thinking ideas, it can get tiring. Everyone also needs to relax and have fun! Nice blog Ava, see you Friday!
ReplyDeleteDr. Lubach is my favorite speaker so far too. I agree with you that asking question and being skeptical of what we are learning right now is a step to develop our critical thinking skills. I have also found it interesting that it is not only the students but also the faculties that tell us to play hard and work hard.
ReplyDeleteThe visit to the library also makes me feel more comfortable to reach out for help on any of my future research papers. In addition, I think the 24 hour service is really helpful too. See you on Friday’s section
Yun Ju,Chen