Self-Assessment

Strengths

- What was the most successful project you ever tackled (in or outside of school), and what made you successful? 

The most successful project I ever tackled consists of a poster design I had completed for my work at University Communications.  The project focused on elements of branding and visual design. Since the poster design was for the University there was an importance of ensuring it adhered to the University branding guidelines. I enjoyed the experience of going  through the design process and the front to end production for the project. The constant communication, feedback, and guidance were critical aspects to what made this project successful for me. 

- What was the most critical team role you ever fulfilled, and why?

The most critical team role I’ve fulfilled took place in my Interactive Media class. It consisted of being in charge of interface designs for a desktop device during my Interactive Media class. Our main task as a group was to create a cohesive design that is able to be translated into three different devices. Each member was in charge of designing and translating for their chosen device. Working as a group had its challenges and advantages but with the guidance from our professor we were able to successfully complete it.

- When faced with an overwhelming obstacle, what’s your “go-to” skill to overcome it?

When faced with an overwhelming obstacle, my go-to skill to overcome it is being self-aware and controlling how I react to it. I look at obstacles and adversities as a learning opportunity for me to get better and grow stronger. Adversity doesn't happen to us, it happens for us. The only way to overcome it is to control how we react to the situation or people. We can choose to be negative and look down or we can see it as an opportunity to test our abilities and learn from our mistakes so the next time we’re faced with the same obstacles we are better and stronger. 

- What are the strengths that others acknowledge in me?

The strengths that others acknowledge in me are my listening abilities, patience, resilience, ability to communicate and connect with people, and be able to stay positive and curious. 

Themes

- What strengths and skills came up over and over again?

The strengths and skills that came up over and over again are my people skills, resilience, ability to work within a team, be cooperative and flexible. I believe I am able to understand and see from different perspectives. I have a positive outlook on life, no matter the situation or task, and that doesn’t mean I’m positive all the time I don’t think anyone can be positive all the time because we are emotional human beings. So I choose to be excited and positive even if I don’t want to be but I do it because I know it’s what’s better for me. 

- Which skills do you enjoy using as often as possible, regardless of the task?

The skills I enjoy using the most often are my people skills and curiosity. I love connecting with people and listening and learning about their story. I enjoy learning new information regardless of the task because there’s so much to explore in this world. 

- What skills have you mastered but would rather not use every day?

Currently at this stage of my life and age, I don’t think I have yet to “master” a skill.  I may have the skills I mentioned above but I am constantly striving to improve and master them.

But I do think adaptability is one because it’s a part of my characteristics and personality which comes out naturally.  

- What strengths and skills do you believe (and will research to find out!) will be most helpful after you graduate and begin your career search?

I believe the strengths and skills that will be most helpful after I graduate and begin my career search are leadership, people skills, negotiation, teamwork, enthusiasm/positive outlook, mental toughness, ability to take risks, problem-solving,  being committed, and goal-driven.  

- What skills are you missing? What skills would you like to build but have not yet had the opportunity to practice?

The skills I would like to build but have not yet had the opportunity to practice are mental toughness, negotiation, and leadership skills. I believe with time and experience I will be able to build them. 

Top five strengths:

- Adaptability in uncertain/unknown situations

- Be able to connect and empathize with people 

- Respectfulness and patience

- Perseverance towards goals and tasks

Weaknesses

- What are the weaknesses that you are aware of?

The weaknesses that I am aware of are being indecisive, being too critical of my own work, taking on too much responsibility, sometimes lack confidence, trouble asking for help, tendency to shift from project to project without completing it and delegating tasks. 

- What was the least successful project you have ever tackled, and what tripped you up?

The least successful project I’ve ever tackled  was my motion project. I had challenges tackling my motion projects because I think it’s my lack of interest in the medium and haven’t focused my energy on it. I have enjoyed working on my motion projects but I have a lack of interest within the medium and I don’t see myself pursuing it further down the road in my career.

- What are three weaknesses that you want to use your thesis project to overcome because they may hinder your ability to achieve your professional and life goals?

Lack of confidence, indecisiveness, and trouble asking for help. I want to use my thesis project to overcome these three weaknesses. I believe these three weaknesses may hinder my ability to achieve my professional and life goals.