AURAK
First Semester Reflection
Maitha's Journey: Building My Foundation
A comprehensive reflection on my personal and academic growth at the American University of Ras Al Khaimah.
Hi, I'm Maitha! This deck outlines my first semester reflection, focusing on the three core themes introduced by the sticky notes. I hope you enjoy the journey!
Part 1: Course Impact & International Resources (CLO 1)
UNIV 100: The Essential Guide
UNIV 100 was crucial in turning my initial confusion into clarity. It specifically guided me on the proper use of Blackboard, the Student Portal, and email etiquette. Knowing how to navigate these systems (CLO 1) removed a major source of stress. The training on academic honesty and citation was immediately applicable.
Key International Support
The support for Student Residence Visas and the guidance on the Equivalency Certificate process were vital for easing my transition to the UAE. The Writing Center was invaluable for polishing my academic English.
Visualizing CLO 1
This diagram shows how different resources (Advising, Writing Center, Health Services) connect.
I realized that CLO 1 turned the overwhelming nature of college systems into manageable tasks. The visa support and the Writing Center were absolutely critical for my success this semester.
Part 1: The Personal Experience (Welcome & Challenge)
Moments of Belonging
I felt most welcome at the Women in Engineering (WiE) Mentorship Kick-off event. Connecting with older female students in my field instantly made me feel like I belonged.
The initial Airport Welcome Service was also incredibly helpful, turning a stressful arrival into a smooth welcome to Ras Al Khaimah.
The Biggest Challenge I Faced
Balancing high family expectations with my new university workload was stressful.
I overcame this by proactively implementing the digital planning tools and time-blocking techniques from UNIV 100.
I found that focusing on specific groups like WiE instantly built my sense of community. The challenge of balancing home and school was solved only through strict time management—a key lesson from UNIV 100.
Part 1: Wisdom Gained - Advice for the Future
"Your Network is Your Net Worth."
1. Connect with Faculty Early
Go to office hours *before* you need help. Building that relationship early is the single best academic safety net.
2. Secure Accommodation Early
Apply for the Residence Halls as soon as possible. Having safe, comfortable on-campus studio housing made my transition seamless.
My main advice to new students is proactive engagement. Use the support systems provided—especially the accommodation and faculty relationships—early in the semester!
Part 2: Growth Through Collaboration (CLO 2)
Communication Challenges Overcome
My main challenge was assertiveness (CLO 2) in group discussions. I would often avoid confrontation to keep the peace.
My Solution: I learned to use "I feel/I suggest" language and relied on structured agendas and shared digital tools (e.g., Trello) to ensure my input was objective and heard.
New Strengths Discovered
- Project Synthesis (CLO 2): I discovered I excel at taking different ideas and merging them into one coherent, strong final product.
- New Perspective: Working with students from diverse majors (Arts, Business) exposed my blind spot: prioritizing speed over detail. They taught me the value of structured pre-planning.
This slide is about linking personal growth to CLO 2. I'll highlight how I actively improved my communication skills by becoming more assertive, rather than just passively observing group work.
Part 2: Skills I Will Carry Forward
The experiences from group projects have equipped me with three vital, career-ready skills that I will carry into future semesters:
Structured Feedback
Delivering constructive criticism kindly and professionally.
Asynchronous Mastery
Managing teamwork effectively across time zones using digital tools.
Active Listening
Focusing on understanding before responding.
These three skills—structured feedback, asynchronous mastery, and active listening—are the most important takeaways from my group projects that I'll use in my future career.
Part 3: Belonging, Identity & Diversity (CLO 3)
Evolved Understanding of Equity
My understanding evolved from cultural awareness to a commitment to equity (CLO 3). I realized diversity isn't just about presence; it's about making sure everyone has equitable access to success. This means supporting someone based on their unique needs, not treating everyone identically.
"Belonging is knowing your unique perspective is not just accepted, but actively needed."
How My Perspective Changed
- Before, I focused on tolerance. Now, I focus on advocacy—actively making sure quieter voices in the group have space to speak.
- This shift has positively impacted my personal growth by helping me define my identity not just as a student, but as an ally.
I'm focusing here on the core shift in my perspective (CLO 3): moving from passive tolerance to active advocacy, which is a deeper level of personal and academic growth.
Part 3: Future Goals and Conclusion
My Second Semester Objectives
- Academic Goal: Achieve a 3.8 GPA and complete the "Advanced Python" online certification to prepare for my internship.
- Community Goal: Become an active member of the AURAK Student Council to advocate for greater student inclusion and support services (directly applying CLO 3 principles).
- Achievement Plan: I will set weekly milestones using the SMART goal system, checking progress every Sunday evening using the discipline I built in UNIV 100.
Maitha's Final Takeaway
My first semester was a period of intense foundation building. UNIV 100 didn't just teach me facts; it taught me resilience, communication, and social responsibility. I leave this semester equipped not just to pass, but to contribute and lead in the AURAK community.
I will conclude by confirming my goals are specific and directly related to the skills and CLOs developed this semester. I am excited to transition from being a newcomer to an active community member and leader.