A Global History of WWII HIST 3096
During the Fall Semester of 2019, I had the opportunity to take an honors seminar studying the history and cultural impact of the Second World War. The topic and history of the battles had always fascinated me, but the discussions pertaining the cultural impact and significance of the conflict was the most meaningful part of the course. The course was often a guided discussion and I enjoyed getting to know my classmates while exchanging ideas and beliefs.
The course met all of my original expectations. I learned a considerable amount concerning the history and strategy of World War Two. I was able to travel to various historical landmarks in London and Paris and reflect on their historical and personal significance. I made friendships with my classmates and was able to learn more about myself and them as a result of the diverse backgrounds present in the class. In those aspects, the course was exactly what I expected it to be.
However, the unexpected results were those that will have a lasting impact upon my personality and attitude. The focus on the meaning and present-day value of the War forced me to consider my own beliefs concerning morality and why I held those beliefs. Additionally, the course made me a more disciplined writer. I did not expect that particular academic challenge, and it took weeks before I began to appreciate the process.
Overall, the course will leave me a more educated individual. Most importantly, the course has left me a far more reflective individual. The class discussions on morality and the importance of the war taught me about myself and my own opinions. Standing on Pointe du Hoc forced me to consider what I believed, and if I would believe in it enough to commit to scaling those cliffs, storming Omaha Beach, or accomplishing any of the countless heroic feats that occurred in the war. This class has made me more cognizant of the man I am, the man I want to become, and the type of growth that will be necessary to accomplish these goals.
I chose my final paper for the class as my Honors Artifact. It serves as a good reminder of the unexpected work and development that came as a part of this Honors Experience.
The course met all of my original expectations. I learned a considerable amount concerning the history and strategy of World War Two. I was able to travel to various historical landmarks in London and Paris and reflect on their historical and personal significance. I made friendships with my classmates and was able to learn more about myself and them as a result of the diverse backgrounds present in the class. In those aspects, the course was exactly what I expected it to be.
However, the unexpected results were those that will have a lasting impact upon my personality and attitude. The focus on the meaning and present-day value of the War forced me to consider my own beliefs concerning morality and why I held those beliefs. Additionally, the course made me a more disciplined writer. I did not expect that particular academic challenge, and it took weeks before I began to appreciate the process.
Overall, the course will leave me a more educated individual. Most importantly, the course has left me a far more reflective individual. The class discussions on morality and the importance of the war taught me about myself and my own opinions. Standing on Pointe du Hoc forced me to consider what I believed, and if I would believe in it enough to commit to scaling those cliffs, storming Omaha Beach, or accomplishing any of the countless heroic feats that occurred in the war. This class has made me more cognizant of the man I am, the man I want to become, and the type of growth that will be necessary to accomplish these goals.
I chose my final paper for the class as my Honors Artifact. It serves as a good reminder of the unexpected work and development that came as a part of this Honors Experience.
Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument
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The Seine at Night
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Artifact: Final Paper
| final_essay.pdf |
