I'm a feminist...what?!

Initially I signed up for a women's studies class because it was still available during late registration and my adviser thought it would be an interested perspective coming from a christian education environment. She was certainly correct. It was interesting!

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Going into women's studies, I had such judgment against feminists. I thought they were all lesbian, man-hating, weirdos who don't shave their legs and do extreme political stunts. Coming out of the course, I learned so much more then I could ever imagined. I learned about the feminist classroom, freedom of expression, respect, critical thinking, and application. I learned about the influence of media in the world and on our personal lives. I learned about the oppression gender's face with gender role stereotypes, different race discrepancies, and effects of socioeconomic class. Putting what I learned into words seems to be somewhat impossible. I learned so much and I came through that class now as a different person. I'm motivated to take on the world and fight for all sorts of injustice.

So here comes the change...

I'm considering taking on a Women's Studies Minor. I would love to do Journalism, but OSU doesn't offer that. Boo. But, their Women's Studies Program is one of the best in that nation. Awesome! And only 27 credits gets a minor.  So far I have 3 of those done, and after next term 6 (possibly 9 if I can get into a class I'm wait-listed for). That leaves me with only 18 left! I should also finish up my Bible minor from Corban, cuz I'm only a few credits from that as well. I was thinking that a Women's Studies Minor could really help with my Psychology Major. I would love to be an advocate for women and equal rights (for all, not just women). If I decide to go forward with a Law Degree, then the minor would be helpful then too! Oh, I love the opportunities OSU offers me. :)

Let me briefly mention, although Women's Studies has taught me so much, it has also shocked me and there have been many moments where I had to hold my tongue, or where I disagreed simply because of my personal beliefs. We studied a lot of the media's influence on society, and I had to watch and engage in material that was semi-pornographic and very uncomfortable for me. That being said, I don't think Christians (or people) should be afraid of things that are different. With an open mind and a new perspective, we can make a difference in this world with love, passion, and empowerment.

"So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immoveable. Always work enthuasitcally for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is every useless." 1 Corinthians 15:58

 (Please feel free to laugh at this ridiculous picture of me from camp)