I am a Living Book
Point Value: 1,000
The students, staff and faculty at the University of Michigan – Dearborn reflect exciting diversity in backgrounds, life experiences, human perspectives, and passions. Each individual has a unique story to tell.
For this challenge, apply to be a Living Book and share your story in short conversations with others at the Mardigian Library’s Living Library event (this is likely a once per year event, so check the Library’s website for details).
After you have participated in this event, reflect on the questions below:
- You likely had to step outside your comfort zone for this challenge – what was the most disconcerting part of participating in this event?
- Why do you think the participant chose you to talk with?
- What experiences, perspectives, or opinions did you feel you had in common with the people who heard your story?
- What stereotypes, misconceptions, or prejudices were addressed?
- How can sharing your story impact your academic, professional or personal goals?
Experience the Arts
Point Value: 250
Go to a museum, art exhibit, concert, play or any event that involves the fine arts. It can be anything from spending the day at the Detroit Institute of Arts to visiting the Stamelos Gallery Center at the Mardigian Library.
For this challenge, respond to the following questions:
- Where did you choose to go? Why?
- Describe the exhibit/event, what you saw, and how it made you feel.
- Did your feelings about this event/place change after you went?
- How does this relate to your academic, personal and professional goals?
Experience the Arts: Educational Programming
Point Value: 750
Read about the upcoming educational programs (ex: artist talk, special guest lecture, workshop, panel discussion, interactive activity etc.) at an art museum such as the Mardigian Library’s Stamelos Gallery Center and select a program to attend. After attending the program, respond to the following:
- What did you learn from this educational program that made an impression or impact on you?
- How did this program help you better understand the exhibited artwork?
- How might attending programs like this broaden your thinking and/or tie into your area of study and career goals?
Chat it Up! Conversation Circles at the Mardigian Library!
Point Value: 500
Learning a new language can be fun, but also challenging, particularly engaging in conversation. For this challenge, participate in a Conversation Circle hosted by the Mardigian Library on most Fridays, 11 a.m.-noon during the academic year. Native English speakers are welcome, as they will help international students practice their language skills. Afterwards, consider these questions:
- Why did you choose to participate in a Conversation Circle and was it what you expected? Explain.
- What is at least one thing you learned about the culture of someone you spoke with (describe what it was and what you learned)?
- How does connecting with native speakers of other languages help break down stereotypes and how can this be helpful in your future academic, personal, and professional pursuits?
