Solutions…are like fish. No, wait. Hear me out. I can explain. Through memorization one learns how to solve problems which already have solutions. And although there are many situations where applying an existing solution is most efficient, there exist in life many unique and novel problems that cannot be so easily resolved. The problem-solving skills and thinking habits necessary for solving such unique problems are often, however, difficult both to learn and to teach. Curiosity, objectivity, imagination, and critical thinking are not things that can be memorized from a textbook or lecture.

My name is Andrew Ferebee, and I’m a second-year physics student at the University of South Carolina Lancaster. Looking back upon my time here as I approach spring graduation, I find that the methods and value of scientific thinking and problem solving have been overarching themes in a large proportion of my classes. Of all the things taught in these classes, I believe these lessons are among the most important. It’s similar to the famous “give a man a fish” proverb. Teach a student the solution to a problem and they’ll be able to solve that one problem. Teach a student how to solve problems and they’ll be able to produce solutions to problems that don’t even exist yet.

Among the thinking and problem-solving concepts taught, two in particular have stood out to me. In my CHEM 111 class it was emphasized more than other concepts how important it is to approach large and complex problems by breaking them down into simpler steps. It stood out to me because it helped me to realize how much I already do this in everyday life. By ignoring the bulk of a problem while focusing only on the next step in solving it, one is able to complete intimating tasks one step at a time. My MATH 141 class emphasized, both explicitly and implicitly, the importance of understanding why formulas and theorems were true rather than simply memorizing their applications. Understanding the reasoning behind concepts such as integration and differentiation is necessary in applying them to real world applications. While I’ve always enjoying learning about why things function and exist in the way that they do, I’ve found it increasingly important as many concepts in higher mathematics are nearly impossible to learn without this knowledge.

One of the highlights of my time at USCL has been the privilege of participating in undergraduate research. In our research, Dr. Bettie Johnson (my research mentor and chemistry professor) and I sought to engage general chemistry students through the use of in-class activities. Noting that students often get overwhelmed with large, seemingly complicated problems, we’ve worked together to create games that help students focus on the individual steps necessary to solving problems found in general chemistry.

I’ve always done well in subjects like mathematics and science; however, I never really understood why that was until I started college at USCL. My time here has helped me recognize how important problem-solving and stepwise thinking habits are to these fields. This realization has allowed me to further improve my scientific and problem-solving skills which in turn has helped propel me forward on my path in higher education. I believe an accurate understanding of one’s strengths is just as important as that of one’s weaknesses, and realizing the techniques that have increased my proficiency at problem solving has helped me learn where to best spend my time and efforts while studying. I’ve also been reminded how important it is to understand the whys behind the whats. More than satisfying one’s curiosity, understanding the why is necessary in applying theoretical knowledge to real world applications. The overall value of these particular lessons may well, I believe, surpass that of all my other course content. I can always go back and read the type of information found in textbooks; however, the knowledge of how to best to go about finding what information I need and the skills necessary to use that information are invaluable. Learning how to learn is the most most important lesson of all!

Now that I’m preparing to transfer to a four year university, I’m confident that the lessons I’ve learned and the skills I’ve honed at here USCL will serve me well in the continuance of my eduction. It will be my privilege this spring to graduate with a leadership distinction (GLD) in research—an honor I believe reflects well these important lessons I’ve learned. This ePortfolio serves to showcase some of my work and learning from my time here as a capstone to this distinction. I believe everything I’ve learned has a purpose, and I’m confident that my time at USCL has set me up for success as I pursue further education at the undergraduate level and beyond.