Wow, it has been a whirl-wind past five months. In Sunday school last week we discussed the difference between acquiring knowledge and gaining wisdom. In my mind I have determined the difference to be this: knowledge is something we as individuals learn from experience, but wisdom is the application of that knowledge and experience through the Lords guidance. I don't know if I have become wiser in the last few months, but I hope I've learned a thing or two!
Growing up, one of my favorite scriptures was Doctrine and Covenants 103:19, "And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come."
Often when my peers would ask what field of study I'd like to explore, I struggled with my answer. Couldn't I get a degree in every field of study...? Not in this life time. Beginning last fall, my first semester at BYU as a junior, I tentatively declared a Biological Science Education major. I've always found biology fascinating and I figured it was a solid major to set my sights on. After a few classes I discovered that while the hard sciences have always captured my attention, history was my true passion. Shortly thereafter I switched my major mid-winter semester, to Social Science Teaching.
Several classes later, I had one of those mental freak outs that you're not supposed to have until you're about 40. Did I actually want to graduate with this major? Could I be successful in this field? As an educator, would daily lesson plans do me in? And most importantly, would I be able to maximize my innate talents to help and serve others?
I took time over the summer to ponder not only my academic interests, but my career plan. Now starting round two at the fantastic BYU, I have decided with renewed determination to pursue a degree in Psychology!
Although not as cool as Sean and Gus, I am excited to learn about and work with people. I do have a few small qualms about my decision- mainly stemming from my love of the hard sciences and abandoning that field. Let's be honest, psychology is the butt of many jokes in the science department.
In the end, I want my major to allow me to enter a field of work centered around helping people. I love people and I love seeing others love their lives! Enjoying the course work is also important. Yesterday I sat through a 2 1/2 hour class, yet I didn't want it to end! I'm grateful for the opportunity we have to pursue knowledge and wisdom in our every day activities. I don't need to wait until I'm in class to learn ground breaking knowledge; however, going to class does help..!
Good luck to those returning to school and thank you to those who get up every day and positively contribute to our world!
Liz
