April 1, 2008

The Project of a Lifetime

By Cassie Frazier

Staff Writer

  When I sat down this semester and looked through the JCC catalog of classes, I decided I wanted to take a class this semester that was challenging, but fun and interesting all at the same time. 

    When "Women in Changing Society," which is an English or a Sociology credit, crossed my path, I thought, “Hey, this looks interesting enough.” Not only was this a credit I needed for my MACRO, but it was also taught by one of my favorite teachers.

  Dr. Paula Harris has been teaching us about women throughout history who have made an impact throughout the world. Some of the topics included analyzing women’s opinions, looking at different types of art throughout history and last but not least, the project that would make or break our grade. 

  The assignment was to pick a women that we felt made a difference throughout history and not only that, but it had to be someone we were interested in.  When asking Dr. Paula what inspired her for this project she responded, “ I wanted everyone to pick a person that they liked or that inspired them. The idea that you look up to them is more meaningful.”

  “Evidence of learning is what this project is all about. I just wanted everyone in the class to show what they have learned. Each person had to pick someone different so the range in this project is so broad, physically and historically.”

    A strong statement by Paula describing how this project unfolded.  The idea of learning about different women and what they have done for us is quite an interesting topic, especially when you are a woman.

  The idea of this project was that we all had to pick a different woman in history that we feel made an impact on how society is today. We had to research that woman, write a paper about her and “non-formally” present our projects with a visual aid.

    I decided to research Oprah Winfrey because I feel she is a great role model for woman all over the world and she, as an African American woman, has made a huge impact on women’s society.

    I asked one of my classmates, Meaghan Floro, whom she decided to research and I got a pretty “radical” answer.

  “I picked Victoria Woodhall because she was the first woman to run for president and because she stood outside the box. She was a crazy one and I liked that about her,” Meaghan said. 

    Being that this woman ran for president before any woman had the right to vote made her a strong role model for women in our society today and I can’t wait to see what these presentations have in store for all of us.

  These presentations will be open to the public. The door will be open April 9 in Bert Walker Hall, room 101 from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Please come and join in the fun of learning about women and why they inspire people all over the world.