I Am/I Want to Become Statements

During our H200 course in my first year of undergrad, we created two personal statements. One at the beginning, and one near the end. The purpose of the first statement was to use self-reflection to help identify and articulate the values and qualities of an honors student that matter the most to me. Essentially, an 'I am' statement.

The second statement was used to reflect on the earlier ‘I am’ statement from the beginning of the semester and set goals for the future as an honors student. This statement is more self-reflective and identifies areas of growth and helps to set intentions, and is dubbed an 'I want to become' statement.

In my last year of undergrad, I am revisiting these statements and evaluating how I have evolved from or stayed on course with my original intentions.

'I Am' Statement

I value adaptability and creativity in my academic and personal life. I am hardworking and I strive to meet deadlines. I am empathic when someone is struggling and want to help my peers succeed. I find joy in hugs and glittering things, and I love to spend time jumping into as many new creative hobbies as I can find. The driving force behind completing my goals are the great role models I’ve had growing up that proved no matter where you start from, determination can get you to tremendous heights.

'I want to become' Statement

I want to become an example for others to follow. I want to be someone who spreads joy and kindness as I make my way through life. I stress about the little things in life but want to learn how to let things be. I want to enter a medical school of my choosing and be able to call myself a doctor. I want to become the type of doctor that makes my patients feel trustful and supported. I currently make time for my hobbies and want to keep this habit with me and not become someone so busy that she can not make time for what she loves anymore.

I want to become financially independent and pay back my parents for all the support they have given me in my journey. I want to be able to donate a sizable amount every month to the people in my home country who suffer because of the unequal wealth distribution. I will become someone with the ability to make a difference instead of just wishing to do so. I want to feel less of an imposter and actually feel the confidence I fake in my current academic life. I want to take on more leadership roles without feeling as if I am not qualified enough to do so. I do not want to be afraid of doing big things alone while at the same time understanding when I need help. I want to hold on to my dreams and never be discouraged by setbacks.

Reflection

My 'I am' statement remains true, and it still guides my actions in life today. The core ideas of my identity such as my desire for creativity and wish to help others has been realized through the endeavours I've undertaken. Examples of this include the various honors contracts I've designed and proposed as well as the several mentorship positions I've been a part of.

As for my 'I want to become' statement, a lot of the goals I am currently still working towards. I haven't exactly achieved them yet, but I have gotten closer compared to when I started. One major goal for me was getting into medical school, and now I have initiated that process.