The fundamental dilemma that this course asked us to examine was; Is gender innate or is it acquired? This classic nature verses nurture question sparked some lively discussions. Overall we concluded that while certain genetic aspects contribute to gender, gender roles are very much learned behaviors. With this in mind we also explored why gender roles have developed they way they have, whether or not they are positive or negative, and the steps we can all take toward a more gender equal world.

This class helped me to discover a new passion that will stay with me through life. Before taking this class, I never fully appreciated the amount of diligence, time, and luck that goes into capturing that perfect shot. My professor for this class required us to take at least 50 photographs a day. He said, that was the amount of clicks it usually takes to get just one captivating image. At first I thought this was a little extreme, but as we progressed I realized just how right he was. During the course of that semester, I discovered so many wonderful things about New York, since that was where I spent my time wandering, clicking, editing, and repeating. I was lucky enough to capture some great images of this beautiful city and its surrounding areas. I have included some of them below. They include; Sunset on a Long Island bay, The bright lights of Times Square, the view of Manhattan from the Staten Island Ferry, Snowfall in Westchester, and of course what would any photography class be without a fun, abstract, self-portrait.

This class really helped me understand some of the difficulties elderly people face. I learned to view aging in a much more positive light. I also learned how to better communicate with members of the aging population, which is really everyone because no matter how old we may be we are all in fact, aging. My final project for this class was a group project. We were required to organize and host an event for an aging population. This was a very rewarding experience because it allowed me to put everything I had learned to practical use.

I am sad to say, that no amount of written explanations could ever fully explain what I learned in this class. It was by far my favorite class I have ever taken. Looking back, I think it may have also been one of the most beneficial not just for my brain, but for my heart and soul The written story that I have included below was the only written assignment required for this course. The rest of the class was conducted orally, in the spirit of the true storytelling tradition. I wish that we had recorded some of the wonderful performances that we all gave and experienced. However, due to the extremely personal stories that people told, we decided it was best not to publicize them. All I can say is that thanks to this class, I realized that no matter who they are everyone has their own story to tell. They have their own trials and tribulations, heartaches and heartwarming moments, and hopes and dreams. Thanks to this class, I will always take the time to listen to other peoples' stories and share my own when the time calls. I will not judge others for I know their stories are just as complicated and important as my own. Above all, I will treat everyone with the respect and compassion that all human beings deserve.

This class truly gave me a deeper understanding of how human language has evolved and continues to evolve. It showed me how all the different components of language combine to give meaning to our communication. As human beings, it is this ability to use language in the way we do that sets us apart from all other species on the planet - fascinating!