Social Science Competencies
COMPETENCY
EVIDENCE
1. Familiarity with psychology of a variety of different individuals.
Coursework:
– Cognitive Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Cultural Anthropology, Social Justice, Certified of Ernie Els Autism Golf Program
Work / Activities:
– Certified as a golf coach to train individuals with autism. Started an organization to help autistic children learn golf. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how Autism Spectrum Disorder affects individuals’ lives and abilities.
– I volunteer on a weekly basis, working with children at the First Tee and the Police Activity League, organizations dedicated to inspiring individuals to develop stronger mindsets and overcome obstacles.
Reflections:
– Learning about the challenges faced by individuals with autism has helped me understand how social interactions are fundamental to relationships and can significantly impact cognitive function in those with autism. Our understanding of these individuals can directly affect their self-worth and future outlook as part of society.
2. Socioeconomic Factors Affecting Access to Resources and Opportunities.
Coursework:
– Social Justice, Cultural Anthropology, Global Health Case Studies from a Biosocial Perspective, The Opioid Crisis in America
Service:
– While volunteering at CityTeam to deliver grocery boxes to senior apartments, I witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by under-resourced individuals and how they are prevented from accessing basic necessities. I learned about the reasons of why some people struggle with affording food and healthcare.
– During my volunteer work at the First Tee, Police Activity League (PAL), and Follow Through Golf, I worked extensively with children from diverse and marginalized backgrounds. I came to understand that certain decisions are made based on circumstances in context of situations.
Research:
– Studying datasets on tobacco use among different demographic groups at the Stanford REACH Lab helped me better understand the relationship between socioeconomic status and tobacco/substance use. The choices made by individuals could sometimes closely tie with their circumstances.
Reflections:
– Having the opportunity to meet and work with a wide range of individuals has helped me better understand different people’s situations. Although I may not personally experience under-resourced conditions, I can empathize and understand that everyone deserves to be treated with respect, regardless of their social status or health condition.
3. Cultural Factors Affecting Communication and
Healthcare Beliefs.
Coursework:
– Cultural Anthropology, Social Justice, Global Health Case Studies from a Biosocial Perspective
Service:
– While doing outreach effort with Team HBV San Jose and Asian Liver Center in Chinatown, I have encountered elderly Asians who were not literacy in English and reluctant in reaching out to families for living support.
Reflections:
With the opportunities to speak with many elders from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, we discussed healthcare and their living situations. At first, I struggled to understand why some people showed little interest in healthcare. Conversations with these individuals helped me realize that cultural beliefs and values sometimes influence their reluctance to burden their children and families. Healthcare providers should consider these factors when making healthcare decisions.