Kristian Eguino

I learned that critical thinking is about more than just analyzing information—it’s about asking the right questions, challenging assumptions, and making well-reasoned decisions. It helps us see situations from different perspectives and separate facts from opinions or emotions. Developing this skill is valuable in any field because it leads to better problem-solving and stronger communication. I plan to apply this by taking more time to evaluate information before acting and by encouraging others to think through situations logically instead of reacting on impulse.

I learned that every student has different learning preferences and challenges based on their background, experiences, and individual needs. Some might learn best through visuals or hands-on activities, while others prefer reading or discussion. Understanding these differences helps create a more inclusive environment where everyone has a fair chance to succeed. I plan to apply this by being flexible in my approach, offering multiple ways to engage with material, and taking the time to recognize when someone might need extra support or a different learning method.

I learned that language is one of the strongest reflections of culture because it carries the values, history, and identity of the people who speak it. The way we communicate—through words, expressions, and even tone—shows how we see the world and connect with others. In a diverse classroom or workplace, recognizing and respecting different languages helps build inclusion and understanding. I plan to apply this by being patient with language differences, encouraging open communication, and valuing the unique perspectives that come from different cultural backgrounds.

I learned that culture and race are related but not the same thing. Race is mostly about physical traits, while culture is about shared values, beliefs, traditions, and ways of life. Understanding that difference helps avoid stereotypes and allows us to appreciate people for who they are beyond appearances. I plan to apply this by being more mindful of how culture shapes behavior and communication, and by creating an environment where everyone’s background is respected and included in meaningful ways.

I learned that “diversity” goes far beyond race or ethnicity — it includes culture, language, abilities, experiences, and perspectives that make each student unique. Recognizing this helps create an environment where every student feels valued and supported. It’s not just about acknowledging differences, but about using them to strengthen learning and understanding within the classroom. I plan to apply this by being more intentional about inclusion, listening to different viewpoints, and making sure everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute and succeed.

I learned that flipping the classroom can really boost student retention by making learning more active and engaging. Instead of just listening to lectures, students come prepared and spend class time applying what they’ve learned through discussion, problem-solving, and collaboration. This approach helps keep students more invested and allows instructors to give support where it’s needed most. I’d apply this by encouraging more interactive lessons and using class time for real-world examples or group activities that reinforce the material instead of just repeating it.

I learned that prevention and education are the foundation of creating a campus culture where everyone feels safe and respected. By teaching students and staff about consent, healthy relationships, and how to recognize and intervene in potentially harmful situations, schools can stop problems before they start. Consistent training and open communication also help build trust so people know what resources are available and how to report concerns. I plan to apply this by promoting awareness and encouraging others to take an active role in looking out for one another.

This content is very important, and I learned that prevention and education are key to creating a safe and respectful campus environment. Teaching students and staff about consent, bystander intervention, and clear reporting procedures helps prevent issues before they escalate. I also learned that consistent and fair disciplinary procedures build trust in the system, ensuring everyone feels heard and supported. Moving forward, I’d apply this by promoting awareness and encouraging open communication so people understand both their rights and their responsibilities in maintaining campus safety.

Title IX and VAWA training is crucial because it helps ensure schools and campuses stay proactive about safety and accountability. It’s not just about knowing the law but also about understanding how to respond properly and support those affected. I plan to apply what I’ve learned by staying aware of reporting procedures, recognizing potential warning signs, and making sure any response follows clear and consistent protocols. This kind of training really emphasizes that everyone plays a role in maintaining a safe and respectful environment.

Learning about Title IX and VAWA really highlighted how important it is to create a safe and supportive environment for everyone on campus. Beyond just meeting legal requirements, it’s about understanding how policies and reporting processes help protect students and employees from discrimination and violence. I plan to apply this by recognizing signs of potential issues early, supporting those affected, and making sure proper reporting channels are followed.