Finished the first year! Short review

I finished my first year at DePauw.

For academics, I almost don't have any problems (except discussions...). I managed the finals exploiting anxiety and perfectionism (thanks to these, I can always learn more than demands).

Like the first semester, I struggled with personal, social, cultural challenges.
I didn't realize consciously but came to see the demands of uniqueness for individuals. Through the atmosphere here, the view toward myself is getting clear while I feel less connected to others. I don't want to be less sympathetic to others' ways of living and concerns.

For participation in a class or socialization, I think the biggest problem is the variable mood stemming from self-blaming and rigid but others-dependent criteria of my value. I felt depressed and hopeless to see the complexity and disadvantages of my personality and identity as a minority and think about hassles in education because of that.
I came to realize that I need a more constructive way of worrying where I can control or improve something.

For classes, I felt that I should've taken more demanding classes or writing or speaking intensive ones. Outside of classes, I started participating in the lab, Japan Club, and Philosophy club. I hope to develop the ground for discussions around philosophy as a president next year. Also, I'm delighted to invite one of the most respected philosophers/cognitive scientists, Douglas Hofstadter in the future. 

During the winter break, I will study the literature on creativity as a topic of independent summer research. I will also read several interesting books.