Synthesis Essay- Aly

They say that “to learn is to experience”. Being able to take the subject BME 14 may not be an
experience through the physical way but it’s an experience that collectively brings out my past
experiences and transforms them into self-reflection and development.

It made me realize how I was too narrowed with my vision. I used to want my actions to lead
into quick results without considering the balancing forces and setting aside the gaps. My mind was
closed from the idea of failure hence neglected the value of experiences. I also thought that maybe
practicality would somehow make me happy but then I lost myself in the process because I had no plan
and just went with the flow. Now I have started seeing the bigger picture of reality through systems
thinking and seeks any other possibilities and opportunities of living life with a purpose.

Janelle

Back then, I used to believe that if something is bound to happen, it is due upon the work of the
nature. Creating a plan, more so, having a personal vision was never in my vocabulary. I believed that
exerting time and effort would be enough to achieve my goals in life and if life does not allow me to
achieve something, then so be it.

However, as I started learning about systems thinking, I am able to replace my old mental model
of seeing things as vague and unachievable. It helped me develop a new mental model of seeing the
world clearly- how things work and how it can be achieved. As I have established a personal vision, I am
able to set my goals more clearly and take every step towards achieving it. Developing a shared vision as
I work within a team, I was also able to eliminate my individualistic behavior and acknowledge the
importance of setting my plans aligned with the team’s objectives.