Freshman Seminar and I have an interesting relationship. On one hand, I love the concept of the course. I enjoyed some of the presentations and I was intrigued by my group's research topic. However, I resented the work I had to put into the class. I am a sophomore and if I were more clear about what I'm doing for the future, then I would have taken Freshman Seminar last year. But my career goals have changed in the last year, so I am taking Freshman Seminar this year. I resented the work because I heard stories of how Freshman Seminar was for my peers. I believe that knowledge kept me from approaching this experience with an open mind. Luckily, I was able to get through it. Dr. Carr's lecture, first and most inspirational, forced me to take a more critical look at me, my people, and my being. I was forced to think about ME. It is difficult to explain the impact his lecture had on me, but I know that in the future I will attend his classes whether or not I'm registered for them. I was floored by the folk-stories and the talking drum. I just loved having a glimpse into my history. I am half Ibo; but since I was raised by my African-American mother, I know absolutely nothing about their culture. It hurts more sometimes because so many people can claim not to have ties to Africa, but my bloodline is second-generation so I feel like I should know more than I should. Freshman Seminar allowed me to know more. The trip to the African Burial Ground was amazing. My favorite part was the video and imagining I was traveling across oceans. It has never felt so real to me. Overall, I can honestly say that I learned many things in this course. Not all of which can be explicitly recited verbatim, but can manifest through my daily living.
Alexandria Igwe
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