Chapter 1: Embracing New Experiences

As a newcomer at the University of Regina, I’ve been gradually getting acquainted with the campus and the various opportunities it offers. Initially, I kept to myself, feeling overwhelmed by the unfamiliar surroundings. However, that changed when I decided to step out of my comfort zone and attend an event that I had overlooked in previous days. This decision led to one of the most enlightening experiences since my arrival in Canada.

The event was part of the university's orientation for incoming students, culminating in a trip to a nearby science center. Upon joining the group, I was immediately struck by the diversity among my peers. Students from various academic backgrounds brought unique perspectives and energy to the gathering.

We were each given wristbands that allowed us complimentary access to the center, and thus, our adventure began.

Walking through the doors of the science center, I was unprepared for the sensory overload that awaited me. The abundance of exhibits and activities was remarkable — from informative knowledge booths to computers set up for coding sessions, and interactive games that challenged not just reflexes, but also comprehension of fundamental concepts.

Sections dedicated to meteorology, the animal kingdom, and even mining processes highlighted the vastness of knowledge on display. In that moment, I began to grasp why students in the West often seem exceptionally intelligent. They aren't merely absorbing information from textbooks; they are experiencing knowledge firsthand.

Every exhibit was crafted to stimulate the mind in ways that traditional textbooks cannot. As a child, I learned these concepts through rote memorization and testing. But here, I witnessed those same ideas manifest in a hands-on, interactive setting. It felt as though the abstract theories I once struggled to understand had suddenly become tangible.

This experience transcended mere education; it was transformative. I began to ponder the varied approaches to learning found across the globe. In many regions, including my own upbringing, education leans heavily on memorization. We are trained to repeat and passively absorb information. However, in this environment, learning transforms into an active endeavor, rooted in exploration, experimentation, and engagement.

It’s no surprise that children exposed to such environments cultivate innate curiosity and a lifelong passion for learning.

As I continued navigating through the center, visiting exhibit after exhibit, I felt a pang of regret for the childhood experiences I had missed. Instead of dwelling on the past, I chose to focus on the future. This experience has fundamentally altered my view on education, highlighting the crucial role of hands-on learning in achieving genuine understanding.

When I left the science center that day, I carried with me not only a richer comprehension of various scientific concepts but also a renewed sense of purpose. I am now determined to pursue more opportunities for experiential learning, not only for my own growth but for others as well. Perhaps one day, I can contribute to expanding this interactive educational approach, ensuring that future generations have the same enriching opportunities that I’ve encountered here.

Chapter 2: The Power of Interactive Learning

The first video, "Joe Rogan Experience #872 - Graham Hancock & Randall Carlson," delves into thought-provoking discussions that emphasize the importance of hands-on exploration and critical thinking in understanding the world around us.

The second video, "Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: The Danger of a Single Story | TED," highlights the significance of diverse narratives in shaping our understanding, reinforcing the idea that education should encompass a variety of perspectives and experiences.