Recognising Strengths and Seeking Accountability

From the outset, I recognised that my critical and analytical abilities serve me well when interpreting data and observing nuances in group dynamics. Yet I also acknowledged a gap in my self-discipline; without external structure, I tend to lose focus. Fortunately, my research team offers the accountability I need. Agreeing collectively to check in regularly has already begun to keep me on track.

Day 1: Forming the Team and a Smoky Kitchen Misadventure

On Tuesday, I learned which group I would join and met my research partners: welcoming, enthusiastic individuals who immediately put me at ease. We wasted no time drafting a research proposal, even arranging an off-day meeting to celebrate our effective start. That evening, I tried frying halloumi (a mere second or third cooking attempt in my almost non-existent culinary repertoire). Despite following the recipe’s steps, the pan smoked so heavily that when my neighbour entered, I could barely make out his face. Undeterred, I resolved to try again: next Sunday, I plan to cook pasta with my mum and master a smoke-free technique.

Day 2: Volunteering, Brainstorming, and Excel Epiphanies

On Wednesday, restlessness led me to volunteer for my college’s open day, where I guided prospective students around the campus. The change of pace was energising, and soon I rejoined my group under 32 ℃ sunshine. Over cold drinks and snacks, we finalised our proposal outline and compiled a list of potential research questions for discussion with our supervisor. Later, I tackled a three-hour Excel workshop led by a knowledgeable university instructor. My mum has encouraged me for years to learn Excel, but I always hesitated. This session opened my eyes to its near-limitless capabilities, and I committed to daily practice to cement my new skills. The day ended on a high note, with our cohort gathering for a birthday picnic for Mahnoor: an event that strengthened our group’s bond.

Day 3: Supervisor Guidance and Quiet Reflection

Thursday began with another spell of open-day volunteering, answering questions from anxious applicants and harnessing my observational skills in a different context. After a hurried lunch, we met our supervisor, Ben, whose insights into his own work helped us refine our research approach and clarified several outstanding questions. Although some topics remain to be explored, the meeting laid a solid foundation. To celebrate Charlotte’s belated Tuesday birthday, we shared cake briefly before I headed to the library. There, I balanced administrative tasks with further Excel practice, ensuring that my newfound enthusiasm translated into lasting competence.

Day 4: Guided Journaling and Community Immersion

On Friday, we reflected formally through our first round of journaling: a process that highlighted my growth over just four days. Later, we travelled to the Iffley Sports Centre, where about seventy-two local students gathered to play adaptive and unconventional sports. Observing shy newcomers and confident athletes alike, I joined three games to experience firsthand the community we hope to study. Their enthusiasm and varied interactions offered invaluable context for designing our surveys and interviews. After discussing our observations back on campus, I returned to Excel practice and allowed myself a well-earned moment of relaxation.

Conclusion and Next Steps

This first week has taught me how collaboration, structured learning, and active community engagement enrich both personal growth and research readiness. Moving forward, I will maintain regular group check-ins for accountability, dedicate time each day to practising Excel, and continue deepening my connections with local stakeholders. These steps will not only support our project’s success but also help me develop the discipline I identified as essential.