Interdisciplinary Studies Personal Statement

I never imagined that going back to school would make me feel so alive. New stories, facts, and references feed my mind and my voice, bringing confidence and clarity to my life. In Spain, where I grew up, women were not recognized or encouraged to continue their education or have a voice. Out of ignorance, my father and brothers crashed any impulse that I had as a young girl to let my opinions and my voice out; however, I found alternative ways to express myself through dance, paint and spiritual practices. Even though I am confident in my body and my artistic expression, I have not explored the capacities of my voice and opinions into a professional life so I am developing them through academic studies. I want to …show more content…
I think the BAC program in Interdisciplinary Studies combines several of the top disciplines from CIIS curriculum to support the development and inspire their students. Recently, I have become aware that most topics I encounter in school are composed of many layers of understanding, conditioning and possibility. In order to more thoroughly understand a problem, I must connect with it through different perspectives. Interdisciplinary Studies is a cutting edge methodology because connects and integrates several perspectives. I know that this kind of discipline will enrich my intellect as much as will add purpose to my …show more content…
I thrive in communities where people get together to explore their creativity through movements such as dancing, painting or conscious inquiry. My sangha studies the art of transparent communication (TC) under Thomas Hubl, a contemporary mystic. This spiritual practice tunes into the subtleties of interpersonal communication. TC is based in bringing one 's attention beyond the story being shared and paying attention to the space between the words; it is here that one is able to tap into information that is unspoken but needs to come forth, often called “blind spots”. This practice requires a high degree of deep listening and attunement. Another collaborative learning experience was my training to become a facilitator for VOEG (Victim Offender Education Groups). In the course, we explored different scenarios related to trauma-healing and based on Restorative Justice. The group generates trust through vulnerability, honesty and willingness to participate. We learned from each other’s experiences while our capacity for empathy grows from feeling alive in the interconnection of our