Habits of Mind

Throughout my journey as a member of the Ethel Waddell Githii Honors Program, I have developed many important Habits of Mind. These habits have influenced not only my academic development but also my sense of purpose and intellectual independence. I have been able to participate deeply in engaging experiences and meaningful service by embracing curiosity, empathy, critical thinking, persistence, and collaboration. This has helped me grow as a considerate and capable community member. One memorable experience was touring the Spelman College Museum and coming across Amanda Williams’ exhibit, “We Say What Black Is”. This exhibit argued that Blackness is understood through shared culture and lived experience, challenging the idea that it can be simply defined. I was captivated by the artwork What Black Is This You Say?, which symbolizes the intricacy of Black identity by combining deep blacks and scarlets. Being a member of the Honors Program allowed me to use a different perspective, and I was inspired to consider an act of curiosity and critical thinking by Williams' line, “You wish you could see the black inside Stevie Wonder’s eyelids so you too could have inner visions.” It challenged me to think about the invisible, unknown foundation of cultural identity, in addition to the visible aspects.

This experience with art reinforced an additional understanding of the hardships and victories in Black history, which was reinforced when I visited the Legacy Museum in my first year at Spelman College with the Honors Program. The stories of many black men and women wrongfully convicted had been recreated, and it was both heartbreaking and inspirational. It brought attention to the lasting impacts of slavery and mass incarceration on the African American community. In order to accommodate the suffering as well as the hope that comes with resilience, this experience required empathy and perseverance. After this experience, I was motivated by the sacrifices of my predecessors, which strengthened my determination to be an agent of change.

Additionally, through the Sisters Keeping It Real Through Service Externals Committee, my participation in the Honors Program reintroduced me to leadership and service. I assisted in organizing the yearly Cupcake Auction as one of the chair interns, which raised more than $11,000 for the newly established S.K.I.R.T.S. Scholarship. This scholarship supports AUC students and aligns with my goal of uplifting my community. Working with others to plan events that had a lasting impact helped me refine my collaboration and persistence skills in this capacity. It also illustrates how intellectual development can lead to meaningful contributions to society.

 The knowledge and understanding I have gained from being a member of the Ethel Waddell Githii Honors Program at Spelman College has fostered my intellectual sovereignty and given me the confidence to think critically and operate ethically. I am motivated to continue these Habits of Mind, applying what I have learned to honor history and bring about significant change. As I reflect on these experiences, I can recognize how the Honors Program has accelerated my development not only academically but also as a thoughtful, service-oriented individual prepared to face the world's obstacles and complexities with empathy, curiosity, perseverance, and collaboration.

Sasha Bryant