Mary Gonzalez Reflection 2
Our class project was about doing research and creating an hour long presentation on everything that elections impact. For example the topics to each presentation were either about school policies, gender equality, immigration, or about the electorate and election process.
This time, instead of starting with the first group, we began with the last group—my group. I’m proud to say my group did an amazing job! We worked closely together, helping each other whenever someone faced challenges in gathering information. One thing I really appreciated about our presentation was how we included examples that directly relate to our experiences as students. My section, for instance, was about comparing college tuition in the U.S. with other countries. I highlighted how, in America, the cost of higher education can be outrageously high—especially in fields like orthodontics. I shared that if I were to go to a university like Nova, I might end up in debt by the time I graduate, while in places like Germany, college tuition is either free or far more affordable. This comparison helped us see how policies shaped by elected officials and school boards directly impact our education costs and career opportunities. As we presented, I saw a lot of growth in our team. People who were initially nervous became more confident with public speaking. Although some team members contributed more actively to research than others, we managed to balance the workload and create a cohesive presentation. This project really taught us how elections, whether at the national level or within school boards, can shape policies that impact us, from tuition fees to available programs and resources. I’m incredibly proud of our progress and the insights we shared on how election outcomes can shape educational opportunities, both today and in our future. This refined paragraph keeps your main points while maintaining a clear focus on how elections impact school policies.
I want to say to Group 3 that they have truly impressed us with such a memorable presentation. I must say that I was absolutely amazed by it--it was revealing and powerful. Their theme was the electorate and the election process; their information was obviously meticulously studied. Everybody confidently expressed themselves and maintained our interest, which was something I particularly liked. The specific part that was highlighted was Julio Trujillo’s section. He was talking about the actual meaning of democracy through the notion of democratic ideals vs. Cuba’s reality as a communist country. He enlightened the crowd with his own experience of Cuba, claiming to be a democratic country, but the powers and resources are controlled by the government and not the people. Julio even let the audience touch a Cuban peso, making those who were unaware of Cuban culture feel the message he was conveying more clearly. Valentina’s enthusiasm even convinced me once again to admit that she is one of my most beloveds in this group apart from her capacity to motivate and dazzle the audience during her presentations. Her skill to make the topic closer to her heart always appeals. Then, it makes it more personal thus more engaging and relatable. I mean, I couldn't be happier with this group! They were fantastic. Marvelous work, all of you!
Being a woman made the Group 2 presentation on gender equality truly touch me and even at times make me cry. The subjugation and negligence women experienced at the hands of males which persisted for centuries are still shocking today even in the 2000s when true equality is still so hard to reach. One of the parts that Maria Borrego and Melanie presented was the most powerful in the pro-choice and pro-life issues. They hightightened the provisions of the restrictive and often very limiting abortion laws that are applicable in the red, blue, and swing states, therefore, the women can not be guaranteed their own bodily autonomy. The males of the group chose to tackle gender inequality by addressing women's representation in sports. They referred to the fact that a lot of times sponsors don't want to involve themselves with women's sports because of the outdated impression that sports is a male activity. This gap in support results in a huge pay inequality where even women athletes who are Olympic gold medalists get pay much lower than their male equivalents. The group went on to explain that in their opinion some of the investors are even afraid that women might even stand next to or surpass men when it comes to athletic achievements, which implies how these biases prevent women from progressing. The group's presentation really touched me because they got the audience involved in such an efficient manner and they spoke with such immense passion about the topics that are also relevant to all of us. They courageously faced the touchy subjects and their pure devotion to their cause was just moving. Group 2, you amazed the audience and succeeded in making a presentation unforgettable which was beyond perfect!
The first groups presentation on immigration filled up so much space. I especially liked Victoria's and Mia's where they interviewed an immigrant who was significant in their lives. Mia's Cuban immigrant mother explained in an interview with Mia about how hard it is for Cubans living under communism. That really struck home, because I was born in Cuba as well (I didn't live there long) but even then, I can only imagine everything that my parents and grandparents endured just to get the bare minimum required for a decent living. Everything was meticulously researched and with passion and inspiration, which stirred a remarkable resonance within those who listened to them.
Now for a closing statement. I am extremely proud of all the groups for all the hard work and dedication that they put into each, and every presentation. We all improved tremendously not only as a class but as individuals. From being nervous to present in front of the class, to being confident and passionate enough to present in front of the MDC stairs.
Awesome! I am also very proud of all of you!
ReplyDelete