Hi everyone! Welcome to
your mentoring blog, "The Knight Life". You'll have four of us
as your mentors (Ray, Kristen, Michael, and Angelica) to guide you as you begin
your journey toward a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. The four of us
come from different backgrounds (like all of you), as you'll be able to see
from our introductions!
Ray
Hi, my name is Ray Shipman
and I take pride in being your mentor. I am currently a senior and my areas of
study are Commerce, Health, and Communications. I am also a part of the UCF
football team (Go Knights!!). I transferred to UCF form the University of
Florida where I spent two years playing basketball. Yes I switched sports...
you’re not going crazy. I graduate this spring but due to transferring rules I
was granted another year of eligibility so I will start grad school this
summer. I wasn’t an Interdisciplinary Studies major at UF and my UF peers tend
to ask what IDS is. I just tell them, “IDS is what you make it”.
Interdisciplinary Studies is the integration of your specialties which is
referred to as disciplines. Understanding the IDS major will enable you to
explore boundaries and solve issues from a perspective many of your peers have
never seen before. This may cause your peers to look down upon you major because
they do not understand it but once you have the full understanding of IDS you
will be even that more equipped to explain to them what you have in you IDS
major.
I want to get to know you guys as individuals and be of help any way possible please answer so we can get to know each other.
I want to get to know you guys as individuals and be of help any way possible please answer so we can get to know each other.
Kristen
Hi everyone! My name is
Kristen Fowler and (obviously) I'm a senior here at UCF. I transferred to
the amazing University of Central Florida from Florida State University after
spending one semester in Tallahassee. I'm originally from Orlando, so I
never though I would end up going to UCF. I'll be graduating in May (a year
early--you CAN finish!) with my bachelors. I'll be leaving the great state of
Florida next year to get my Master's (not sure exactly where yet) in Sports
Management. My areas of study are Public Affairs, Arts, and I have two
minors in Legal Studies and Sports Business Management. Interdisciplinary
Studies has been a great major for me because it gave me the opportunity to
combine all of the different things I'm passionate about (music, film, sports,
and the law). Had I chosen a single discipline to major in, I would have
lost out on so many different classes here that I've loved. You probably don't
realize it while you're still trying to explain to everyone what exactly an
Interdisciplinary Studies degree is, but after you've completed most of your
coursework you will realize that the IDS program prepares you to be a more well
rounded thinker and person. I'm so excited to help all of you along your
journey!
Mike
My name is Michael
Kilpatrick and I am from Jacksonville, Florida. I am majoring in
Interdisciplinary Studies with subject areas in Education and Behavioral and
Social Sciences with a minor in Business. I am a member of 2 organizations: Phi
Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band
Fraternity. I love music and I also like stepping as well. After
graduation I plan to be a teacher for a few years and later go to graduate
school for Educational Policy. I am currently applying for Teach for America
and will potentially move to Atlanta, Miami or Jacksonville depending on where
they place me. My goal is to teach for at least 4-6 years and once I have my
masters in Educational Policy, I want to take the necessary steps to be a part
of the board of education and be a part of the decision making.
Angelica
Hey guys! My name is
Angelica Carter but you all can call me Angel. I am originally from Ft.
Lauderdale, FL, and have also lived in Jacksonville for a few years. I am one
of 6 children. I’ve lived in Orlando for almost three years now and I have a
new Lab puppy by the name of Charley. I used to be a Dance major and
transferred to UCF my junior year and changed my major to Spanish. I was
unsatisfied with this major so again decided that I wanted to change it once
more to Business. I decided that Interdisciplinary Studies would be the best
fit for me because I liked to
learn but was never really settled in one area of study alone. And also the
more I changed my major the longer it would take me to graduate! Therefore my two focuses are: Dance and Commerce (business)
and a minor in Spanish. After I graduate I would like to teach dance in a
performing arts school. I am also venturing into opening up my own
entertainment company. Hope that
you all have a great semester and I am available if any of you have questions.
Your
Assignment
Tell us a little bit about
you!
We'll start with the
basics:
How did you get to UCF?
What are your areas of study and minors? What do you plan to do with it (if you
know)?
And now some random
questions:
What's your favorite food
and why do you love it? What UCF experience has been your favorite/are you most
looking forward to participating in?
Make sure you respond to
your peers and feel free to ask your mentors questions! We will be responding throughout the week so if you have any questions about the major, the mentoring
project, UCF, or anything in between all you have to do is ask!
Hi everyone! My name is Jakara Johnson but you can call me Jay. I am originally from Winter Haven, Fl. I just celebrated my 23rd birthday this past Tuesday. I transferred to UCF my junior year as a political science major. I had wanted to be a lawyer since the 6th grade but I lost interest. I decided to try something in the health field so I changed my major to pre-clinical but that didn't give me very many options except in order to get anything out of my degree I had to go to grad school. I did/do plan on going to grad school but what if I didn't? I would be stuck with a degree that I couldn't do anything with; so i decided to change my major once again to Interdisciplinary Studies. My areas of study are physical science and life/biomedical science, with a minor in health science. After I graduate from UCF I plan on attending pharmacy school. I don't know which one yet. So far, which ever one excepts me. Once I finish pharmacy school I want to practice pharmacy somewhere up north. I have lived in Florida all my life...it's time for a change. My favorite food is french fries. I honestly can't say why I love it so much. I guess because it's good.I don't have a specific UCF experience that is my favorite. One experience at UCF I am most looking forward to participating in is my graduation.
ReplyDeleteyour areas for study are good choices that will give you a variety for choices to choose from. And that why I pick my minor in health sciences because I will have a variety of areas to go into. whether it is administration or go back to school to be a OT or PT I like IDS because you have options.
DeleteJay, I could not help noticing how similar our education experiences have been thus far. I did start here at UCF as a Freshman and always dreamed of going to med school. About the start of my Junior year my motivation for the MD began to wane and it was time to re-evaluate. I thought I was just giving up but realized that I have always been intrigued by medicine and health care, maybe just not from the perspective of a doctor. In still trying to challenge myself, I began my IDS work in Life/Biomedical Sciences and Social/Behavioral Sciences. How our program is set up, the options post graduation are endless. I plan on going into higher level, professional nursing. I strongly believe that the undergraduate experience is a time set aside in life that gives us a chance to explore and reflect on what we really want to do in life and prepare us for the next step.
DeleteIt appears you have carefully chosen your IDS path in preparation for a pharmacist future and I wish you the most success in your endeavors.
Hi My name is Lakeshia Harris, Im from Palm Beach county. I'm majoring Interdisplinary Studies with a subject areas in Educatin and Behavioral and Social Science with a minor in Criminal Justice. I am the first out my family to go to college. Im the third oldeest out of seven children. I Graduate in the fall of 2012. My major first was Elementary Education but I wasnt sure if I wanted to do Education becuase I always wanted to be teacher or a Probation officer, I decided to study in Interdisplinary study because I wasnt really sure if I wanted to teach. Now that Im an Interdisplinary study major I kinda have an idea of what I want to do.
ReplyDeleteKeshia, my first major was also Elementary Education, but after several Edu classes I wasn't sure if that area was for me either. I think I would like to be a teacher, but I think I rather be a private tutor for students of other languages--and not here in the America, but in another country. That is why I think IDS is so wonderful because you can pick different areas of study to open options for careers opportunities.
DeleteI hope you find your passion and good luck with whatever you decide to pursue!
Well welcome Jay and Keshia. I hope that your intentions with school and career goals will pan out well. Jay I feel the same way about Florida; I love it, but it is definitely time for a change!
ReplyDeleteDo any of you ever have trouble explaining what IDS is to others? If not, do either of you have a working definition that you use, that you would like to share?
-Angel
I really dont have a definition of IDS yet but I have a idea of it. Thanks I wish you luck too Anglelica with everything..
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteI always have a problem explaining what IDS is. I still don't know what IDS is myself. When anyone ask what my major is I respond by telling them I'm doing a double in my 2 subject areas with a minor in Health Science. How do you usually respond?
DeleteJakara Johnson
Hey ya’ll!
ReplyDeleteMy name is Andrew, but to most I go by Andy. I started here at UCF four years ago, back in the fall of 2008. That’s right, that makes me a senior, and looking forward to graduation coming up this summer. Starting out four years ago, I came into the university interested only in getting the necessary education to continue on to medical school or some higher-level health related professional school. After very successfully completing my med school prerequisites and following many hours of shadowing doctors, I came to the census that I was fascinated with medicine but the M.D. was not for me. So instead of just settling with an M&M degree, I set out to construct my own plan of liberal arts studies to expose myself to many different areas of interest. This plan landed me here in UCF’s Interdisciplinary Studies Department. My areas of study are Life/Biomedical Sciences and Social/Behavioral Sciences sided with a Business minor. It may seem far-fetched but after the courses I have encountered and knowledge I have gained these past four years, post-graduation I plan to continue my undergraduate education in a second-degree B.S.N. (baccalaureate nursing degree) program and after a few years of practicing as a registered nurse, complete higher-level M.S.N. and a nursing doctoral program.
Now, to answer random questions with some random facts about myself… I never have a problem spending good money on good food! I love some good “soul food” cooking. For me, soul food is not just the stereotypical fried chicken, mac & cheese, and green beans, soul food is any kind of cuisine that is vibrant and reminds me of home. My “soul food” is good ol’ down home cookin’ along with Mediterranean/Middle Eastern and delicacies from the PR. That’s what I grew up with and know and love.
With out a doubt, what will define my UCF experience is my involvement in Theta Chi Fraternity. Greek life, specifically my brotherhood, here on campus has brought me so many memories and grown me into a stronger gentleman. I have been an active brother since the fall of 2009. The experience is priceless. I am forever indebted to the experiences Theta Chi has provided here at UCF and within the community.
Andy, it seems like you have a good plan for your future and I am glad you know what you want. I wish you luck in all your endeavors!
DeleteAndy, you have great plans for the future The health field really needs RN's the nursing field is one that you will continue to learn and you will have some interesting patients also trust me.It is all worth it at the end of the day when you can put a smile on your patients face.
DeleteAndy, my mom was a nurse practitioner for many years. Upwards of around 25. She was involved in psychiatric, triage, general, and retirement homes. If you have any questions I would not mind posing them to my mother.
DeleteHey thanks guys, Rachel and Vinicia! I can not wait to get started on the future.
DeleteCory, I now remember you mentioning your mom's nursing background. That's awesome...her career is so diverse. My mom is also a nurse (BSN), but about 20 years ago decided to go more into health care administration instead of doing MSN work and a CRNP program. She has been really successful with that so she has stuck with that, but she maintains her license and practices often. That being said, it will be nice to have that connection to your mom if I have questions about higher level nursing education and practice. Thanks man!
Hello! My name is Rachel Goddard. I’ve practically lived all my life in Orlando, although I did spend the first 5 of my life in China (I was born there). I am also one of 6 children and I have to say having a big family has its pros and cons, but overall I love having a big family. Currently, I am a junior with minors in Education, Communication, and World Comparative Studies. I transferred to UCF after finishing my dual-enrollment program at Valencia. I am not really sure what I would like to do with my major, but I am currently looking at being an overseas English teacher somewhere in Asia. I work as a volunteer/teacher for an English homestay program and I really enjoy working with the students.
ReplyDeleteAs for my favorite food… I’m just going say I love any type of Asian food whether it is Thai, Korean, or Indian. I love it all because they incorporate a lot of fruits and vegetables and spices in their dishes.
The UCF experience I am looking forward to is the Alternative Spring Break. I am going to Mississippi to work with Habitat with Humanity! I am looking forward to the experience and today I am meeting my team!
Hello Rachel! I think teaching abroad would be a great way to combine your areas. One of my sorority sisters went on a mission trip to Japan two summers ago to teach English (among other things) and it was the greatest experience for her! I've only heard great things about the ASB program here at UCF, I'm sure you'll have a great time!
Deleteoh what program did your friend go to Japan with? I actually been to Japan for an English/mission program and that is one of the reasons why I want to work overseas!
DeleteHi Rachel,
DeleteI think its great that you want to work overseas and help teach children English!
Have you worked with Habitat for Humanity before? I've known a lot of people who have worked for them, but have never actually done it myself.
Amanda, this will be my first time to work with Habitat for Humanity! I usually help with food kitchens and thrift stores.
DeleteHello everyone :)
ReplyDeleteMy name is Amanda Baker. I was born in Tampa, but raised in Delray Beach/Boca Raton, so I'm a Florida baby through and through. This is my first semester at UCF, I finished my AA at Valencia over this past summer. My areas of study are Behavioral & Social Sciences and Public affairs with a minor in Hospitality (commerce). I was enrolled for a public administrations class this semester but I quickly realized that that area of study was not for me, so I'm thinking about changing Public Affairs to maybe Communication. I'm not completely sure what I'd like to do with my future as of yet, but I'm hoping that I figure it out pretty soon. I know that as soon as I'm finished with UCF, I'll be getting my butt out of Florida. I love it here, but like Angel said, its definitely time for a change. I'm thinking I'll more than likely end up in California.
My favorite food would have to be fries, just like you Jakara! It doesn't really matter what kind of fries or where they are from, just pass the plate over to me! :)
I'm not too sure which UCF experience I'm looking forward to the most. I'm still trying to figure my way around the school without getting myself lost (I'm really good at getting lost), so I'll have to get back to you guys on that one.
Hey Amanda,
DeleteI am in Communications and I totally recommend it! I think it would complement your Hospitality minor perfectly. I have 4 comm classes this semester and I am enjoying them all.
I know what you mean about getting lost! This is my second semester at UCF and I still get turned around. I wish you luck in your journey here at UCF and all the experiences you will have.
Hello Amanda! Public Affairs definitely isn't for everyone, and (like Rachel said) Communications would be a great complement to your Hospitality minor. Everyone I know in the Hospitality program here absolutely loves it!
DeleteUCF is huge. During my first semester here I actually looked up where my classes were and wrote down directions before leaving my dorm!
Comm is a great thing to have. With how easy it is to inter connect with all people the ability to present yourself in a strong manner is awesome ability to have. Not to mention it will be helpful in a future job for presentations.
DeleteHey Amanda, I could not agree with you more...I can not wait to get out of Florida! Honestly, I do not have much to complain about (besides maybe that August heat) because Florida has provided me with a great 21 years; born and raised in Jacksonville and then undergrad in Orlando. But it is time for some change. I have been out west to California (San Fran area), beautiful yet quite expensive for my tastes...perfect for a nice vacation though. I have my heart set on the Northeast (Philly area). I have been up to Phila multiple times and the metro and suburb areas are perfect. I can not wait to move...and make my Florida roots a nice winter get-a-way.
DeleteHave you thought about how you can integrate your areas to solve a problem in your desired job? And fries aren't good for you lol
DeleteHello Everyone my Name is Vinicia Crenshaw, I am from Fort Pierce fl I moved to Orlando in 2004.I transferred from Florida Hospital College of health sciences I was there for 3 years pro-suing my Bachelor's in health sciences. I decided to make a switch to UCF back in summer of 2011 that was the best decision I have ever made.I am a senior at ucf this is my second semester at Ucf I have one more semester to go.I will be Graduating fall of 2012, my areas of study is Minor in Health Science my two subject areas are Humanities and Public Affairs. I plan on pursuing my Master's in Health Care Administration/Education and hopefully continue to work for Florida Hospital where I have been for the past 4 years or work for the V.A.
ReplyDeletemy experience at UCF has been Great so far,I am ready to enjoy my last two semesters at UCF and hopefully come across some loyal people.
Hi Vinicia! One of my friends had a similar path to you--she just transferred from FL Hospital College to UCF this semester and is so excited! My cousin's wife works for the VA in West Virginia and they send her all around the country (for free!) to take classes and observe at other VA hospitals. I think it would be a great place to work!
DeleteHi Vinicia I cannot stress to you that making big decision of change show great responsibility. Never do anything you interested in. The fact that you changed schools is interesting. I transferred from UF
DeleteHello to all, my name is Cory Waite. I ended up at UCF due to the fact that I wanted to be in a large city for college. UCF is just far enough away from home (Tallahassee) but still close enough to go home on occasion. I really enjoy i here to be honest. I received an Air Force scholarship and it appeared that UCF had one of the best programs in the nation, also helping me make my decision. My areas of focus are Digital Media and Criminal Justice. My minors are Aerospace Technologies and Criminal Justice once again. After leaving UCF I intend to join the Air Force. I am currently selected to be an Remotely Pioleted Aircraft (RPA) pilot. These are the unmanned aerial drones you always see on TV such as the MQ1 predator, MQ9 reaper, Global hawk and things such as the experimental drone which crashed recently.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite experiences at UCF has been my ROTC one. I was able to do a lot of interesting things such as a boot camp at Maxwell Air Force Base where I was able to do all the stereotypical military things such as kicking in doors, learning breaching procedures, and participating in live fire exercises.
I am a pretty easy going individual if you all ever have any questions about the military feel free to ask me.
Whoops forgot my favorite food. My favorite food is probably shrimp alfredo. Not really sure why I enjoy it so much but I can not get enough of the stuff. It also helps that it is very simple to make at home but can become very complex if you try to start adding other items into it.
DeleteOOORAH! Haha (Yes, I know, I remember you schooling me on how airman don't say that really...mainly just the Army and Marines haha.)
DeleteThis post just reminds me of the letters you would send us...epic. If we were not worried about you dying we were enamored with all the neat things you got to experience, including your C-130 trip and the young lady sitting next you! Again, that is awesome that you got your pilot spot...you're gunna have a great military career.
I forgot about your shrimp alfredo addiction...every other night, you and Kaitlyn would be making that meal in that wok hahaha. Good times!
Hi Cory!
DeleteAre you allowed to have Criminal Justice as one of your major areas of study AND your minor? I've never heard of anyone being able to do that.
Shrimp alfredo? You're making me hungry! :)