Student Blog: A Season of New

I am excited to jump into this summer and take a break from the rigorous flow of academic and social life on campus!  I major in Cognitive Science at Yale University. For those who have never encountered this field of study, I like to describe it as an expanded psychology. Researchers in cognitive science labs take an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the mind, brain, and behavior. Therefore, coursework between students within the major typically varies. We are able to individually decide on relevant topics of research and from there, choose specific classes from a pretty diverse selection. The range of these classes spans from humanities-driven courses in linguistics and philosophy to STEM courses in economics and computer science. I am going into my junior year when students begin to pursue their major full-time. With that being said, I am thrilled to jump into settling on my chosen area of research. I’ve always thought it would be interesting to explore some connection between cognitive science and the performing arts. I think it would be a full-circle experience to combine my love for theater with the research I choose to conduct. For anyone reading this, I am open to suggestions!

This summer will be travel based. So far, I have visited the Dominican Republic for an educational and service trip. I took the attached photo during a visit to the Zona Colonial which is a historical area in the country’s capital, Santo Domingo. In a very on-brand fashion, I was fascinated by the artwork and architecture that can be found throughout the country. Additionally, I enjoyed being able to connect with the rich culture and community. Life on campus can start to feel stagnant and frozen at times so I appreciated the abrupt change in environment even more. There were so many new things to learn. I was able to practice my Spanish comprehension and articulation as well as encounter new foods and people. Initially, I was pretty set on my dislike for plantains. However, after the trip, my mind has been completely changed. I look forward to returning and learning even more.

Next, I will be taking a trip with my family on a cruise to destinations like CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas. I wonder what I will get to try and experience. As a side note, I am also excited to see the ship’s production of Hairspray as the recently released photos and videos from the show look great. 

One of my secondary plans this summer has been starting the process of research and conversation around a potential play that I am assistant directing when I return to campus. Yale has an undergraduate production program that enables students to direct a vast range of plays and musicals. These productions are often run by a team of students that are given a budget to work with. Typically, I have joined the cast of these shows. A few examples include West Side Story, Chicago, and The Wiz. However, I think it will be rewarding to expand my experience beyond what’s happening directly on stage. I think this assistant director position will enable me to be creative and practice thinking outside of the box when it comes to world-building. 

Ultimately, there is a lot ahead this summer/the upcoming semester and I’m going into it with a sense of openness and curiosity.