Where the Essence of Humanity Lies
Written by Melissa Alvarez
Thumbnail & Banner Photo by Thanos Pal on Unsplash
John Donne’s words: "No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main,” capture the essence that no human being is separate and isolated from the rest of humanity.
I am driven by the realization that no individual exists in isolation, but is instead a part of a whole. This realization becomes particularly noticeable when we reflect on the diverse backgrounds and perspectives in our daily interactions, especially within the environment of university life. I've come to understand that although we all follow our own paths, our lives are deeply connected, influencing and being influenced by the world around us. It is precisely this interconnectedness that research seeks to explore. Engaging in various research projects has allowed me to understand how relationships and patterns define our interactions with others. Through study and exploration, we, as students, have the opportunity to uncover the subtle yet powerful forces that bind us together, offering insights into how we shape and are shaped by our surroundings.
With this in mind, I will share valuable resources available on campus that have not only helped my academic journey but my personal growth too. By conducting thorough research, we can gather relevant information, analyze data, and draw meaningful conclusions to guide our decision-making process. Whether it is market research on launching a new product, social psychology research for understanding the ways we connect, or financial research to budget groceries, the insights gained through research empower decision-makers to weigh options, assess risks, and choose the most effective course of action. In today's data-driven world, the ability to access and interpret research findings is essential for making informed decisions that lead to positive outcomes. By investing time and resources in research efforts, we can enhance our decision-making capabilities, minimize uncertainties, and ultimately achieve our goals more effectively thanks to sound judgment and strategic planning.
On Campus Resources
Within the academic context, particularly at the university level, the role of on-campus resources in facilitating research activities cannot be overstated. On our campus, a plethora of resources have been particularly beneficial for me, especially in relation to courses and summer jobs in research. For example, the Writing Center has a science expert who has been of great help when I draft research proposals or write a research paper. Moreover, the Patrick Power Library offers One-on-One Research Help appointments where students can receive assistance in developing their research topics and tips on search strategies. They're available in person and online on weekdays, evenings, and weekends, making it super flexible. You can book a Research Help appointment online for personalized guidance. Plus, their regular hours for drop-in service in person from Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. By taking advantage of these resources, we position ourselves for a more informed, engaged, and successful university journey.
Summer Research Awards
Transitioning from the support resources to real-world research opportunities, Saint Mary's offers incredible opportunities to dive into the world of research. The Undergraduate Summer Research Awards presents an incredible chance for students to work closely with faculty members on a full-time research project over the summer. Last summer, I had the privilege of working alongside Dr. Jim Cameron on a project exploring the psychology of astronomy—an exploration of the psychology of astronomy (e.g., effects of awe, identity, and attitudes toward the environment). These are paid positions for 12 weeks, where we apply what we've learned in the classroom to real-world questions and problems.
Personal Development Benefits: Participating in opportunities like the Summer Research Awards leads to significant personal growth for students. This experience cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills as students navigate through unknown territories of knowledge.
Benefits for the Field's Development: Student involvement in research brings fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to longstanding questions. Students' unique viewpoints and thinking can lead to breakthroughs that might not have been possible through traditional research methods alone.
Effects on the World: On a broader scale, the type of research conducted through opportunities like the Undergraduate Summer Research Awards has the potential to make significant impacts on the world. In my case, research on topics such as the psychology of astronomy can lead to a deeper understanding of human behaviour and cognition. I believe that as students from different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives, we contribute not only to expanding knowledge but also to developing solutions for some of the world's most pressing issues.
Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash
Final Thoughts: A World of Opportunities Awaiting Exploration
Our university is not just a place for learning—it's a place filled with opportunities for growth, discovery, and connection. Whether it's through engaging with campus resources, participating in research opportunities, or forging lasting relationships with professors and friends, the university experience is designed to propel us toward our aspirations. My research journey has been a transformative experience, an understanding of the world and our place within it. In seeking to understand the various parts of our world through research and collaboration, we not only discover the essence of humanity but also shape it, embodying the truth that we are indeed interconnected, part of a vast, shared human experience. Let’s question ourselves about what is beyond our cultural norms and expectations, the desire to research the unknown, the broken parts of the world that make up who we are.