Dear reader,
Lately I’ve been learning the importance of journaling, especially being part of the ACE program the past couple weeks. Reflecting on highlights, lowlights, random lights in daily life helps with slowing down and really appreciating moments. For planning purposes, journaling also helps with intentionality and creativity. I notice that I tend to have my best ideas when I take this time for myself, maybe sitting down at a cafe or at night with a tea, and write what is on my mind.
From the beginning of the ACE program, journaling and reflection have been encouraged to maximize interactions with team members, information gathered from MasterClass sessions, and present our best work to our project supervisors. My intention with committing to ACE was to experience personal growth, virtual volunteering, and understand more about the state of marine conservation.
The following is a small reminiscence about my summer of virtual engagement; I hope to eventually use my experiences for inspiration with future opportunities and life courses.
I want to remember how these past three weeks of virtual engagement have filled me with curiosity, laughter, direction, and gratitude. How full I feel after helping out with community and engaging with others to promote sustainable practices. How important practical time management skills are to success outside of school and athletics, too.
This was a challenge I faced during my time with ACE and I think it will continue to be with work and other engagements being offered with more virtual components. There are pros and cons to the flexibility that virtual programs provide, so in moving forwards I want to work on minimizing distractions and being prepared in whatever setting I wish to work in (like making sure there is internet connection outside). Scheduling the following day’s activities around my priority commitment the night before would also be a great practice to incorporate moving forwards.
I want to remember how these past three weeks of virtual engagement have filled me with curiosity, laughter, direction, and gratitude.
– Taylor Ruck, Stanford Women’s Swimming and Diving
I am so grateful to have been able to work with Shark Guardian this past summer and learn how much help is needed within the world of marine conservation and sustainability. I didn’t have many expectations to color my experience with the program beforehand, mainly just the intention to help the best I could with what was asked of me.
Our aim was to get involved in a social media campaign against shark finning. This involved contacting local dive centers, composing tweets to raise awareness, and writing a professional letter to South African Airlines, which continues to be a major transporter of shark fins.
I am reminded of the common saying that ‘you get out what you put in.’
– Taylor Ruck, Stanford Women’s Swimming and Diving
After concluding our work and upon reflection, I am reminded of the common saying that “you get out what you put in.” We were asked to complete the tasks given to us, however going above and beyond is what makes individuals successful and unique in the many life settings. This is made easier if you are passionate about what you do.
To others, I encourage you to find and pursue your passions. Find your cause through exploring new opportunities, then dig, learn, and get involved! That is the adventure we all take, so I would also encourage anyone confused to use the people around you to have the important conversations. I hope this one was helpful and thanks for reading!