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Final reflection

Title: Embracing Growth: My CAS Journey in 18 Months

Over the past 18 months or so, my involvement in the Creativity, Activity, and Service (i.e. CAS) program has been but transformative, shaping my personal plus academic development in profound but perhaps indirect ways. This essay presents a reflection on my CAS experience with respect to several key aspects: enjoyment, challenges, skill development, and learning outcomes.

First of all, one of the most fulfilling aspects of my CAS experience is the enjoyment. To express my creativity in various forms, freedom is needed. Artistic pursuits like drawing pixel art are crucial in shaping my overall CAS experience. I greatly appreciate the opportunity -- which I received from these activities -- to indeed enrich my experience of the world, where each endeavor brought me immense joy, and fulfillment? This, freedom, allowed me (and many others I assume!!!) to indulge in my passions, encouraging me to think innovatively to tackle problems in my way with fresh perspectives.

Second of all, alongside enjoyment came challenges, with the most significant being the balance between academic priorities and CAS activities. These surely need to be managed. (So, Managing time effectively became paramount) I ma required to obey careful prioritization, time management strategies, and clear communication with my inner consciousness. Through perseverance and discipline, I overcame this challenge. I truly have found a rhythm that allowed me to deal with my most pressing tasks while fully engaging in CAS endeavors.

Additionally, in terms of skill development, my planning abilities saw the most significant improvement. Engaging in collaborative projects provided ample opportunities (one might say a cornucopia of!!!) to refine person to person coordination skills, grasping in the process effective collaborative planning key skills. I, also see an improvement in some other field. That is namely in decision-making performances --one can never be sure-- which leading to the manifestation of the importance of delegation and empowerment.

Lastly, reflecting on CAS learning outcomes, some were easier to achieve than others. E.g. demonstrating engagement with global issues came naturally, driven by genuine passion and desire for the betterment of humanity and all conscious beings. Nonetheless, achieving a balanced approach to creativity, activity, and service posed significant challenges (vast efforts misallocated!), requiring careful strategic planning in order to distribute approriate time to each component (equally important in effect...). But, good thing is, that thanks to perseverance, I achieved a harmonious balance. I could enhance the overall impact of my CAS doings.

To sum up, my CAS experience that lasted about 18 months has been a quite rewarding process that facilitated growth, contribution, and skill development. Although there were challenges, one rejoices :D. This is due to the fact that in spite of challenges, each obstacle served as a learning opportunity (extremely helpful tbh?). As I make the great leap forward, I am grateful for this cultural revolution through CAS and excited to apply them in future exploits.

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CAS Learning outcome table

Identify your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth:

Looking at digital art, I really saw a spark of creativity (that was well a strength I suppose), thought but realized I needed to step up my composition game, which is an area for growth. Exercising showed discipline but highlighted the need for more flexibility. Writing letters honed empathy but reminded me to communicate better.

Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process:

Digital art was a tech maze, but I conquered it. It was challenge alright. Exercise routines pushed my limits, big time, developed physical skills (procedural knowledge if I were to stretch it). Writing letters demanded resilience and clear communication. Each challenge built skills and made me more adaptable.

Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience:

Starting digital art meant lots of research and planning. E.g. the composition needs to e planned, i.e. what is there & what is not, etc. Exercise routines needed goals and strategy. Writing letters required (careful) organization. It's all about planning smart for success.

Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences:

I stuck with digital art, refining it through countless tries. This, of course, means that I persevered. Exercise was a daily grind, but I never quit. Writing letters? I was as persistent as a sea turtle. Right, It's all about staying strong and not giving up.

Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively:

Teaming up on digital art projects? It's all about sharing ideas and building camaraderie. I needed other people to review my ideas etc. That way it's fair, I assume. Writing letters together? Not. But sharing ideas, sure! That's amplifying encouragement. Teamwork makes the dream work, folks! Joint efforts in writing letters amplif1ed the impact of encouragement :3. These experiences highlighted. The significance of teamwork & communication & leveraging diverse strengths.

Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance:

In digital art, I tackled environmental themes creatively. Exercise opened my eyes to global health. Look beyond and see the trees of my artistic vision. Writing letters etc.. E.g. i.e. The connection that got with the greater challenge (global!!) of uplifting hospitalized children globally. I.e. these experiences highlight how really crucial connecting personal pursuits with broader societal concerns is :)

Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions:

In digital art, I made sure to represent diverse perspectives responsibly. Shapes. Lines. Electricity. Deforestation. Air pollution. Ethical? They do not influence much, so the answer is yer. Exercise? It's about balancing personal health with bigger principles, I harm my body, but it grows in the term, so it's ethical. Writing letters? It's about choosing words wisely. It's all about doing the right thing in every situation, which is true. So it is ethical indeed. Sick children really need ethics.

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CAS signature

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Evidence of reflection on significant CAS experiences

Creativity

Creation; pixel art; that of a rocket was a thought provoking exploration with each pixel embodying the intricate balance between progress and peril. This relates further to the concept of war and peace, as the image that I have manged to create has a strong symbolic meaning that encompasses all aspects of our life and can be thought of as an object that is quite indicative of a lot of things we see here not only in the digital world such as the internet but also the real world that is physical. This calls the absurdity of wars and serves as a call to action to move against the motion of wars and head towards a brighter future for the whole of humanity as well as individuals within our society in the future. This is to be appreicated by many others and many who surround us. As I carefully crafted sleek lines as well as vibrant colors, emerged has the rocket. Symbol! Peaceful exploration and the darker shadows of conflict! The limited canvas of pix3l art became a metaphor for the choic3s humanity faces? Mirror of mirror and the pineapple that draws the dichotomy between the pursuit of knowledge and the unintended consequences of technological advancement. The final composition. Its stark contrasts and bold design. All encapsulated the nuanced narrative of our collective history. That of urging refl3ction on the delicate dance between war and peace that defines our shared trajectory.

Activity

Exercise is a dynamic catalyst for metabolic adaptations , triggering a surge in energy expenditure and promoting hormonal balance critical for overall well-being. This is good for both the body and the mind, which I consider as an obvious fact that does not need to be mentioned over and over (though people may sometimes forget even the obvious). Nevertheless, the issue is of such a wonderful existence that any less attention for it is rather undeserving and in fact harms the strength of it as well as its ability to evoke a greater esponse from the people in touch with it, causing a misallocation of empathy and energy for issues that truly matter. The immediate calorie! Burn, and burn, burn it during activity; coupled? w/ the sustained effects of excess post-exercise O2 consumption, its impact on bodily fluid managem3nt it underscores. Scientifically, or not unscientificallly. Exercise insulin s3nsitivity sure enhances , cardiovascular health, and mental well-being. Benevolent offering of benefits beyond the physical . Beyond. Beyond the physiological. Beyond all the release of endorphins and cognitive improvements that the holistic nature of exercis eemphasize , transforming it, into a commitment to self-care (and a cornerstone of a healthier ) and + a more vibrant future.

Service

The act of Crafting a letter to a hospitalized child I think is a thoughtful endeavor that with cultivating empathy and understanding the challenges they face begins; The key lies here. In striking, a balance between sensitivity and positivity! I must, and must indeed choose a warm and encouraging tone. Well, crucial is personalization, the “must” to incorporating details about the child’s interests (do not know btw) to create an authentic connection? The letter should be a source of hope. One must see their strength and inspiring optimism, such optimism, such great optimism!! Logistics, from stationery choice to sussy visual elements, a role in enhancing the overall experience they play :3 ; In essence, the planning procss is an art of compassion that creates a heartfelt message to transcend the hospital room and nurtures hope in the face of qdversity.

As I on the actual process of writing the letter embarked (to a hospitalized child that is)， the digitalized pen suhc a sussy conduit for empathy and hope became. Translating, mutilating the carefully planned thoughts into words on non-paper :/, I felt a deep link with the child’s journey. Each s 3entence a delicate brushstroke, an infusion of warmth and encouragement and all and all the things one desires to obtain in times of harship. Populating the letter with grand visions brought a sense of familiarity, making it more —— very more than —— a human message。Writing becqme a m3ditation on hope, a reminder of the resilience within the child/ I ca refully chose words. Incorporated were visual elements. Hence, The letter transforms into a tangible source of comfort. It was a humbling experience, the realizing; The realizing of the power of a simple letter to transcend the confines of the hospital room and deliver the message of solace and strength to a young spirit on a tumultous -> path :).

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LO7: Recognizing and considering the ethics of choices and actions 

Overall reflection

So, let's talk about why ethical considerations are, like, super important, alright? The fact that it's not just about doing stuff cause it's cool or whatever. People need some think on how our actions affect others, kapiert? Like, we're all part of this big world, and what we do can have, well, a rather huge impact one may say. Whether, it's being mindful of, what we say, online, or making sure we're not supporting shady practices -- ethical thinking is key--, people. 'Cause at the end of the day, people need to make the world a better place (that includes us!), one step at a time, and that starts with being responsible and considerate, see, nineteen year-olds? (pointing at thee!!!) So yeah, let's keep it real, let's keep it ethical, and let's keep being awesome together.

Example 1

Ahoy, writing that letter to cheer up a sick kid with orchid facts, it's a good thing, folks. But let's not forget, we got to be careful (real real careful here!?) about what we're sharing. We want to make sure it's (age-)appropriate, culturally sensitive, and, one knows, actually something the kid wants to hear about. I'm talking about boosting spirits here, not causing more stress. Consider it? So, it's great to spread knowledge, and connect with nature, got to do it in a way that's considerate and uplifting!!! Maybe the kid doesn't want it?! That's what we're all about, folks—making a positive impact, big league. But all in all, I see no big ethical issues here.

Example 2

Sending a letter on almond science to a hospitalized child? What are the ethical considerations? Well. It's all about education and compassion, folks, believe me. We're talking almonds—nutrition, environment, sustainability—all in one. Water efficiency, adaptability, biodiversity, you name it. And we're not stopping there, folks. We're talking waste reduction -- say recycling those almond shells (scientific for sure!!!)-- and making a real difference. In our real, real world. It's about distraction from illness, sure, but also about instilling responsibility for (the) environment. It's education, it's empathy, it's consciousness, all rolled into unity. And let me tell you, it's gonna bring joy and connection in tough times, big league.

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LO6: engagement with issues of global significance

Overall reflection

Thoughful, fully nice, similar to the fact of: I think engaging in global stuff is execellent and kinda good, be conscious? Akin to, really exciting and stuff, and, accordingly, it makes one feel, like, important? I mean even though it's like super big and scary it's also opporunity to make a difference? (A difference? Can it be?) And understanding all the, like, big problems in the world is, hold on, in weird dimensions like solving a puzzle with countries and things!!! So, yeah, even though it's kinda overwhelming, it's also, like, a chance to do something meaningful and make the world somewhat a better place, I guess? -- upposedly --  Sorry if that didn't make sense. Hehe...

Example 1

Above message is indicative of the global issue of domestic violence. Here I engaged precisely with this issue of global significance because I feel the need to fulfill my duty as a member of mankind to mitigate global issues of inconvenience to the best of my abilities

Example 2

Via this I engage in issues of global significance. Here, namely the global issue of sickness and loneliness. Through the means I presented above I help about the feelings of vulnerable people, which are in dire need of remedy and good-will. Hence I successfully engage in issues of global significance in an effective manner.

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LO5: skills and the recognizing of the benefits of working collaboratively

Overall reflection

Capisce? Got to know why working collaboratively is good? Got to tell them straight. In this world, aint nothing done on my own capito? Sometimes, I gotta rely on mine crew, your partners, your brothers and sisters. See, when you work together, it flies!? Collaboration emerges, as the silk thread, weaving together the fabric of our endeavors -- like the gentle breeze guiding a boat across tranquil waters -- and, that collaboration propels us, forward, and forward with grace and unity. ln the symphony of existence, each instrument plays its unique melody, yet, it is, through collaboration (catharsis!) that the symphony becomes a masterpiece, resonating deeply. In the heart of battle (and beyond...), let us stand shoulder to shoulder, head to toe, with our "spirits" ablaze with determination and camaraderie!!! Is it not? For, it is not in our individuaI prowess that we find victory. Do we? Ja! We long for the bonds forged through our shared struggles and triumphs!

Example 1

My CAS Project partner has thoroughly reviewed the details of the above included recording and has provided me with an analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the content displayed in the footage. This is an instance of working collaboratively to reach a goal, as I need the opinion of another reviewer to optimize the performance and quality of the CAS Project product.

Example 2

The details of the above included code snippet has thoroughly reviewed by my CAS Project partner, which has provided me with a valuable review of the strengths and weaknesses of the information displayed in the snippet. This is another instance of working collaboratively to reach a goal, as I need the opinion of another reviewer to optimize the inner workings of the CAS Project product in hopes of improving the performance and robustness of the CAS Project product.

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LO4: Commitment and perseverance in CAS experiences

Overall reflection

I think learning outcome 4 right, commitment and perseverance in CAS experiences are very important. Or are they not? (--one can argue--) Me start by thinking about what commitment mean; Perhaps like "sticking to something" even when it hard. In CAS experiences, I need show commitment by always doing it and giving me best effort. I also need perseverance, which mean keep trying even when me face challenges. Sometimes CAS experiences can be tough, but, I need, to keep going, and, not give up. Me learn that commitment and perseverance help me grow and achieve me goals in CAS and in life.

Example 1

Above activity of pixel art composition spanned over a year

Example 2

Above activity of exercising spanned over a year

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LO3: initiating and planning a CAS experience

Overall reflection

PIanning process very important. First, I brainstorm ideas in mine head. Process like swirling shapes and sharp edges. Neural network composition. I sketch rough outline on paper, but not too detailed because because it needs simplicity. Yes, simpIicity is, needed...; Then, l decide? -on size of project, maybe small for detail or big for boldness. Good. Next, I choose tools, but remember (important?), it's limited. so I focus on technique -- and balance --. I plan to start module by module; each one carefully executed to create desired effect... Sometimes mistake makes itseIf, but no worry allowed. This due to that mistakes add character! Finally its ok.

Example 1

The planning process: First, I make ideas in my mind. I choose color palette, but remember (important? ), it's only black and white. Therefore so I focus on contrast (--and balance --). I plan to start draw pixeI by pixeI!?! Each one carefully placed to create desired effect... Process like swirling shapes and sharp edges. Composition of the image. I sketch rough outline on paper, but not too detailed because because pixel art need simplicity. Yes, simpIicity crucial...; Then, for this me decide? --on size and dimensions of canvas, maybe small for detail or big for boldness. Good. Next, finally I can approve.

Example 2

It is of utmost importance to initiate a CAS experience with a plan. Therefore I suggested myself that it shall be imperative that I thoroughly conjure a series of steps to be utilized for the successful operation of my initiatives. I hence plan to make a precise and useful plan upon every act to produce an outline for the body of text that I, in the future, will be writing. This is beneficial to maintain and promote a wonderful and rigorous structure of the message, enhancing its effectiveness in the conveying of information and other significant aspects of thought that I wish to be transmitted across the globe to reach the recipient of this virtuous letter.

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LO2: Evidence of undertaking new challenges and developing new skills in the process

Overall reflection

Why's mine journey such a perilous quest, eh? I dive into new challenges across the realms of CAS. So much braving those dreadful triaIs (oh, the horrors!!); and venturing into uncharted seas and waters :(, all to level up me skiIls and take on fresh challenges, aye aye! 'Tis Iike a quest in the world of blocks. Absolutely! Cannot disagree! (I assume??) Here, where each obstacle and every new horizon so equivalent to be like XP for the growth, arrr! every step taken be a testament to the depths of me courage; skilIs; and the breadth of me resolve. Why? Amidst the t3mpests and calms alike, I find meself adrift in seas of economic development, where each conquest of the heavens be but a prelude to the next grand adventure. By grace of Poseidon himseIf!?!?! Wherefore? Therefore, as I hoist me sails and chart me course, I say. I leave in me wake a trail of triumphs. What proof of me daring & + willingness to embrace the unknown? Must be like yo ho ho!

Example 1

Here I have undertaken new challenges and developed new skills. I've personally never drawn tall trees before so this has been a severe and daunting challenge for me. Nevertheless, I've developed a robust skillset revolving around vegetation composition and pixel art drawing, which I can confirm to be of utilitarian superiority.

Example 2

This has been a significant challenge undertaken on my side and has resulted in the development of new skills in the process. Since exercising at home is of relative novelty, no occasion of such deeds were forseen. Hence, such daring attempts of exploitation should be adequately acknowledged.

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LO1: Identify your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth.

Overall reflection

How that upon the treacherous seas of CAS, I've stumbled 'pon fleeting glimpses o' me innate personal strengths and whispers luring me to realms ripe for areas of personal growth, arrr! 'Tis a voyage o' self revelation! Indeed! Where the deeds undertaken be as enchanted mirrors in thy summer wind, as shall be reflecting both the fabulous glow o' me strengths and the shadowed depths o' potential growth, aye! Within the intricate, intricate (but delicate), tapestry o' me CAS adventures -perchance endeavour a better name?-, I find a canvas upon which to sketch the contours of me abilities, whilst delicately imbuing the subtleties o' uncharted territories. Spite the fire and brimstone! O brave new world, that has such people in't!!! O brave new world! Through introspection,i.e.  I discern the intricate patterns o' me strengths and glimpse the ethereal borders of lands awaiting me exploration, by Davy Jones' locker! Pitiful, pitiful!!! Indeed? May it thus be a quest o' uncovering [lorem ipsum etc.] (bruh?) the shards of me strengths, unveiling gently illuminated sanctuaries where transformation awaits its dawn, yo ho ho!

Example 1

Overall, I have found that shading the pixel artwork can be identified as a personal strength. Meanwhile, the details perhaps are an area for potential personal growth, as the resolution of the artwork is rather low so there is a limited capaility for the artwork to present itself as intricate or detailed enough to a specific industrial standard or norm.

Example 2

One strength I have identified is the velocity with which the exercising can reach. It is of utmost profoundness and efficiency such that there appears no need to stride for significant improvements. On the other hand, one area for potential personal growth is that the andurance of the act of exercising, meaning the period which it lasted, is not satisfactory, leading to a lack of prolonged physical exertion.

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CAS Project final overview

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CAS Activity

Commitment & Perseverance:

Exercise not just about body, it's journey with commitment, perseverance!!! When I think about exercise, I remember tho how important commitment, perseverance for make it work. Mine commitment, very important for exercise. It's like promise to yourself to do it even when don't want. At times mine sloth overtakes mine soul, but I remember my promise and do it. Perseverance also very important. It's about keep going even when hard. Sometimes I feel like giving up, but I don't. I keep going. Exercise not easy. Sometimes tired, sometimes no progress, but I keep going. Exercise teach me to be strong, to never give up. Exercise not just about body, it teach me about life. It show me I can do anything if I work hard. It make me proud of myself.

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CAS Activity

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CAS Service

Planning

I plan, as I embark upon the composition, message for convalescent child. Apprehension, like feather in tempest. Words and crucial and the tone, for they all matter. Just, as much as delicate. Aware, potential impact. Hesitation of thought is dangerous, initially. Illness, relentless, steals joy, fear and discomfort remain. Hence, I must plan out details. Simple message should do, bridge the chasm?

Execution

Transcended message, self-reflection. Empathy, importance, extend a hand, perceived insignificance. Reminder, smallest acts, profound impact, vulnerability, illness. Ultimately, not just message, forged connection, hand in solidarity, hope held - child, unwavering spirit.

Sitting down, write message to sick kid. Feels like holding feather in hurricane. Words, gotta be right, gotta feel right. Scary, can words actually help?

Start writing, words come slow. Remember their laugh, how they always bounce back, their amazingness. Talk about victories, little and big, remind them strong.

Finish writing, hit send. Feels like letting go of breath. Hope it lands soft, maybe brings a smile, maybe just lets them know someone cares.

More than just kid, though. Makes me think. About empathy, about reaching out, even if feels small. Makes me think, small things can make big difference, especially when everything feels fragile. Alas! How profound. How truly profound!!

In the end, not just message. Bridge, a hand, and hope. For them, and for everyone who fights.

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CAS Service

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CAS Creativity

Reflecting my pixelated canvas. Think! How stuck am I by the dichotomy of emotions the absolutely slayed straw dummy evokes. Annihilation; Grief; Satisfaction in the technical precision of each meticulously placed colored square -- for the ripped stitching and the (deflated) limbs and the floppy hat are not coincidental -- all forming a cohesive narrative of its demise. But alas! Yet, a melancholic undertone lingers, prospers, and simmers b3neath. The once-proud dummy now lies but inert. What? Is it a stark reminder of impermanence? even in this digital realm? Of our mankind? What a testament to the intertwined nature of creation and destruction it is! For each pixel a tiny brushstroke, contributing, to the larger purpose. Such great sparking reflection on the power of the seemingly insignificant.