2025.04.17 (Final Reflection)

After completing my entire CAS journey, it feels incredibly rewarding to look back on all the activities, challenges, and achievements. The reflection process has allowed me to see how much I’ve grown and how I’ve pushed myself beyond my comfort zone.

On April 16, 2025, I had my final CAS interview, and it was a great opportunity to reflect on everything I’ve accomplished. Going through the interview, I realized that my initial doubts about achieving all my goals were completely unwarranted. Not only did I achieve them, but I also exceeded some of my expectations, which makes me feel proud of the progress I've made over the past year.

From baking delicious recipes to designing intricate nail art, I’ve discovered new ways to express my creativity. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone, experimenting with more complex projects while still balancing them with simpler ones. This journey has helped me understand how to be adaptable and how to find beauty in both the simple and the challenging aspects of creativity.

In terms of physical goals, I managed to achieve nearly all of my targets. While I didn’t get to participate in a tennis tournament, I still learned an invaluable lesson about listening to my body and the importance of adjusting my goals when faced with challenges. The discipline and perseverance I gained from my figure skating training, running, and gymnastics have undoubtedly shaped me both physically and mentally.

My volunteer work, especially with animals, has had a profound impact on me. Volunteering has allowed me to contribute to addressing the global shelter crisis and given me the opportunity to help those in need. It also helped me build strong relationships with others and taught me the importance of teamwork and collaboration. These experiences have made me a better volunteer and an even more compassionate person.

I’ve learned to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, whether it’s in sports, creativity, or service. Every setback, like the shin injury that prevented me from playing tennis, taught me valuable lessons in adapting and being mindful of my health. The variety of activities and goals I set for myself allowed me to recognize my strengths and identify areas for growth. I’ve become more confident in my abilities and have developed new skills that will stay with me beyond CAS. While the community involvement, especially through volunteering and organizing events, has been incredibly fulfilling. It’s given me a sense of purpose and the ability to contribute to something larger than myself.

Photo from one of my past CAS activities

Looking back, I’m incredibly satisfied with what I’ve achieved, and I feel more prepared for whatever comes next. The biggest takeaway for me has been the realization that consistency, dedication, and balance are key to achieving anything. I’m proud of how I’ve managed my time, pursued my passions, and made a positive impact on my community.

For the years to come, I’d like to continue to explore even more creative avenues, maybe incorporating some arts or design elements into my projects. But overall, I’m extremely grateful for the entire CAS experience, and I can confidently say that it’s shaped me into a more well-rounded individual.