Overview
Consider the components of being an engaged citizen. In your Social Purpose essay, you considered what you value, identifying what is important to you. You can review your essay to reflect on where you started the quarter, and consider how your work in this class has influenced your motivation and resources that you now bring to society. Consider the scientific skills you have gained, and practice science communication about the issues you are about. Here are some questions to consider:
What do you feel is a responsibility that falls to you? What are you uniquely positioned to do, or, what is it that can only be done by you?
This could be: having a conversation with an entrenched relative, voting in your local elections, volunteering at your child's school, getting involved or starting a club at your school, sharing your skills as a scientist (such as evaluating sources of information and backing up your arguments with peer-reviewed research). What else?
- You have the knowledge to take action-- you know what needs to be done and why.
You have the skills, and you know how to do it. What will you commit to doing? Now, and in an ongoing way?
- You now know that even small actions you take will be effective, especially when done in community with others. How will you participate in cultural change toward improving climate and justice?