What is a core competency?
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To me, the development of core competencies is one of the most important parts of a student's educational experience. The American Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAAC&U) has outlined 16 important core competencies that many college students develop through the course of their education. These core competencies not only help college students during their academic pursuits but also in their career and beyond. The AAC&U explains that "higher education endeavors to prepare students to be this type of learner by developing specific dispositions and skills described in this rubric while in school". The purpose of higher education is to prepare students for the workforce and the development of core competencies is an important part of this skillset. Furthermore, acquiring core competencies equip students to become lifelong learners, providing students the skills they need to succeed in both the classroom and beyond.
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Oral Communication
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Oral Communication means being able to verbally convey information effectively to a variety of audiences. I have developed this skill in my work experience at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. In my job, I have had to learn how to communicate scientific knowledge to a variety of audiences. One example is when I was working at a summer camp at the Museum and I had to teach a group of young girls about science. The theme of the camp was women in the STEM field and my task was to not only dispel myths surrounding women and girls in science but to also educate these girls about a variety of scientific fields. I had to learn what kind of scientific language was most appropriate for that audience. This skill will be important in my future career because I must know how to effectively communicate with my audience, no matter who they are.
Pictured above is an activity I led with the campers.
Written Communication
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Written Communication includes being able to effectively communicate thoughts and ideas through writing. This is a skill that I have developed in both my previous coursework and in my job as a writing tutor at the Cooperative Learning Center (CLC). In my job at the CLC, I assist students with their writing in a variety of genres. This has exposed me to the types of writing used in a variety of fields. Furthermore, I attend writing-related training every other week, which has helped me develop my own writing skills. This will help me in my profession because I will be prepared for any kind of writing I may encounter, from professional emails to policy analysis.
