This grant was for my history research seminar this semester. My research delved into how the introduction of the Americas fundamentally changed European medicine through the use of New World medicines, and the increased availability of eastern medicines through New World cultivation in the 16th and 17th centuries. Due to the time period and nature of the research, some primary sources were hard to get access to. That is how this grant helped me, by granting me access to a rare source that was seminal to the topic being researched and otherwise inaccessible.
I first heard about this grant through Dr. Mollenauer, who was teaching my seminar this semester. We both agreed that for my paper access to “Joyfull Newes out of the Newfounde Worlde” would be essential. So, I applied for the grant and purchased the book. In writing this paper I hoped to increase my ability to write grammatically and historically. Also, I hoped to increase my skill as a researcher. Both of these I achieved, without this grant I could not have written on this subject, and for having it I am very thankful.
With every paper I write my skill as a writer increases; this is especially true for longer papers such as this one, being 16 pages long. One day I hope to write a set of history books, so, though I have a long way to go, it is projects like this that truly prepare me for this task. Another vital skill that is ever increasing is my research technique. Every paper I write requires me to learn new avenues to find the information I need. This research paper was no different; my pursuit for information on my topic was relentless and I had to scour physical and digital sources for the information I needed. Indeed, that is probably what was most challenging about this process- finding the sources I needed to write a balanced and accurate research paper.
This research opportunity has undoubtedly granted me many skills that will help me, both in future jobs, and in my graduate school application. Most Importantly honing my research and writing skills. When applying for anything in life it is important to research what it is in advance. First this helps you know you’re a good fit for what your applying for, second when applying or answering questions it shows initiative to have properly vetted what you are applying for. Additionally, writing is an excellent opportunity to display your qualifications. Admittedly I lacked any real writing skills when I entered college, and thankfully I’ve come a long way. Though I still have a long way to go to become the writer I wish to be, this research paper has moved me closer to where I need to be.
