Science CoursesThe following are writing samples from three science courses: Advanced Organic/Inorganic Chemistry Lab (Chem 4564), Advanced Instrumental Lab (Chem 4553), and Physical Chemistry Lab (Chem 3493). [Note that most science lectures are not structured to allow for extensive writing, so these samples are from laboratory work.]
This Advanced Organic/Inorganic Lab paper features three different reactions with Mo complexes to explore inorganic syntheses and catalytic reactions. This Advanced Instrumental Lab paper and data set features an in-depth look at spectrofluorometry and the quantification of quinine in tonic water. This Physical Chemistry Lab paper and data set features an investigation of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) to explore the effects of intramolecular forces on rotational and vibrational motions and how to distinguish two related molecules, such as HCl and DCl. |
Liberal Arts CoursesThe following are writing samples from two liberal arts courses: Comparative Mythology (CLST 3090) and Opera (HNRS 2021). These files may be downloaded on the links below.
For Comparative Mythology, I was required to do a project (paper and presentation) spanning the entire semester on any topic of my choice, as long as it compared myths from two different cultures. This project was significant for me because I was able to convey a uniquely original idea: cunning-intelligence as a form of liminality in Greek and Norse cultures. Were I a Classics major, this would have been my thesis topic. For Opera, I was required to do a paper spanning the entire semester on any of a select group of operas. I chose Puccini's Madama Butterfly. Puccini's use of themes and leitmotifs as a vehicle to portray characters, symbols, and emotions allowed me to turn an analytical mind on a liberal arts topic, showing me more than I would have ever discovered by simply enjoying it as an audience member. |