Science, Technology, and Society

FINAL EXAM

Choose a scene in the movie Contagion wherein you can relate based on personal experience
during the pandemic and tell me why is it so.
The Resilient Journey of Creativity and Perseverance: Finding Hope in "Contagion"
When the news of the COVID-19 pandemic dropped on us, a lot of things changed for me. As a
hopeful and artistic high school student, navigating the challenges and uncertainties of the
ongoing pandemic has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Amidst the chaos, however, If I
were to think of a scene from contagion where I can relate and draw inspiration from, one
particular scene, Dr. Ally Hextall, brilliantly portrayed by Jennifer Ehle, emerges as a beacon of
hope and resilience as she successfully synthesizes the vaccine for the MEV-1 virus. This scene
resonates deeply with me, providing a valuable lesson in the power of creativity, perseverance,
and the pursuit of knowledge, which has helped me navigate my own journey through these
unprecedented times.
Dr. Hextall's unwavering commitment to her work in the laboratory serves as a powerful
reminder that perseverance is essential in overcoming challenges. As an artistic high school
student, I have faced my fair share of setbacks and obstacles during the pandemic. The
uncertainty surrounding school closures, remote learning, and the cancellation of artistic events
left me disheartened. However, witnessing Dr. Hextall's unwavering dedication, despite the
setbacks she encountered, encouraged me to persevere in my own artistic pursuits. Just like Dr.
Hextall, I learned that setbacks do not define us; rather, they present opportunities for growth
and innovation.
The scene showcasing Dr. Hextall's scientific process and experimentation revealed the powerful
synergy between science and creativity. My mom is an artist but doesn’t want me pursuing arts,
I was also a STEM student so, I have often been told to choose between science and the arts, as
if they were mutually exclusive. However, witnessing Her breakthroughs through trial and error
showed me that the boundaries between these disciplines are fluid. Her innovative thinking,
combined with technical expertise, exemplified how creativity plays an integral role in scientific
progress. This revelation has given me the confidence to embrace my artistic pursuits while
acknowledging the potential for creativity to shape my understanding of scientific concepts.
Dr. Hextall's success in synthesizing the vaccine serves as a beacon of hope amidst the
pandemic's uncertainty. As a high school student, I have often grappled with feelings of
hopelessness and anxiety about the future. However, this scene reminded me that hope can be
found even in the most challenging circumstances. It emphasized the importance of focusing on
solutions, rather than dwelling on problems. Dr. Hextall's resilience and the collaborative efforts
of the characters in the movie showcased the power of determination and the potential for
positive outcomes, even in times of crisis. This realization has strengthened my belief in the
ability of individuals, working together, to overcome adversity and create a brighter future.
Among all of the current technologies within our grasp, which do you think has the most impact
on your as a student majoring in your current major and as a future member of the work force of
a job related to your major?
I am a political science student and a digital artist so there are several technologies that have a
significant impact on both my current academic pursuits and my future professional endeavors.
One technology that has revolutionized the political science field is data analytics and artificial
intelligence (AI). The ability to collect, analyze, and interpret vast amounts of data has
transformed how political scientists study and understand various phenomena. AI algorithms
can analyze political trends, public sentiment, and electoral patterns, providing valuable insights
for policy analysis, campaign strategies, and decision-making processes. Being a polsci student,
leveraging data analytics and AI can enhance the accuracy and depth of my research, allowing
me to make more informed conclusions and predictions.
Digital technologies also have had a profound impact on the field of art and design. Software
applications and tools specifically designed for digital artists have opened up new avenues for
creativity and expression. Graphic design software, 3D modeling tools, and digital painting
platforms enable artists to push boundaries, experiment with various styles, and create
stunning visual experiences. As a future member of the workforce in a job related to my
majors, I believe that advancements in communication and collaboration technologies will have
a significant impact. Tools such as video conferencing software, project management platforms,
and cloud-based collaboration tools have become indispensable in our increasingly
interconnected world. These technologies facilitate remote work, enhance team collaboration,
and streamline workflow processes. They allow professionals from different locations to work
together seamlessly, making it easier to engage in interdisciplinary projects and foster global
connections. These technologies enable me to collaborate with individuals from diverse
backgrounds, share ideas, and contribute to projects regardless of physical proximity.
I believe that by leveraging these technologies, I can enhance my skills, broaden my
perspectives, and contribute effectively in both fields, ultimately preparing me for success in my
future career.