Welcome to My Senior Portfolio!
My name is Hannah Westgate, and I am a third year Liberal Studies major at Westmont College in Santa Barbara. I am from Danville, California, a few miles east of San Francisco. I grew up (and continue to be) involved in sports, am always spending time with my friends, and love being close with my parents, two younger sisters, and my two dogs. I have always enjoyed working with children, whether that be in the form of babysitting, working in my church, or helping in local elementary schools. As a kid, I always resorted to playing “teacher” with my sisters and friends, so to now be fulfilling that childhood dream is exciting! I am so thankful to Westmont for solidifying my belief that I love to teach others, and for the constant support I have received from both friends and professors. Aside from my studies and working with students, I love music, being outdoors, playing volleyball with friends, Pinterest, and exploring new places.
What is Westmont? What Does It Mean to Be a Liberal Studies Major?
Westmont College prides itself on an undergraduate, Christian, Liberal Arts education, combined with a focus on residential life and global influence. One of the greatest advantages of a Liberal Arts education is the ability to experience a wide range of educational fields in order to earn a degree. As a future teacher, I have become knowledgeable in most fields of study, exposed to subjects I may not necessarily enjoy or think I am good at. Through my education at Westmont, I have learned more of what interests me, even if I did not think I would. It is not only an important lesson to learn, but it is also an important lesson to teach: if you are so closed off to a certain idea, you are limiting your own growth. There is value in being willing to try new things, and greatness may come from that! I have also found that such a well-rounded education has allowed me to contribute in many different kinds of conversations, as a liberal arts education means being knowledgeable in numerous fields of study.
Westmont is notorious for its rigorous academics alongside enjoyable extracurricular opportunities, and I have experienced that firsthand. My academic studies have been challenging, as I have consistently managed about twenty units of classes. Although I enjoy these studies, that routine makes for a busy schedule! I have learned diligence through this practice, as I have to stay focused on my studies, yet find balance to maintain friendships and extracurricular activities, as well. I have gotten better at managing responsibility while also being able to enjoy myself within these limits.
Westmont is notorious for its rigorous academics alongside enjoyable extracurricular opportunities, and I have experienced that firsthand. My academic studies have been challenging, as I have consistently managed about twenty units of classes. Although I enjoy these studies, that routine makes for a busy schedule! I have learned diligence through this practice, as I have to stay focused on my studies, yet find balance to maintain friendships and extracurricular activities, as well. I have gotten better at managing responsibility while also being able to enjoy myself within these limits.