I started this semester thinking that I would be taking three very intense and concrete science classes. Biology, Chemistry and IDC: Science and Technology of New York City. I was correct about the first two, but IDC was definitely surprising. The concrete data, formulas and steps were still involved, yet this seminar was not the average “science class”. We started learning about the scientific method and how important following certain steps and creating results that can be reproduced are. We then utilized that information and went on to gather data at BioBlitz to form research questions and a hypothesis of our own. After a lot of hard work, extensive research and presenting, we created a final paper and poster. Instead of simply learning information in a classroom setting and then being tested on it, we used the tools we acquired and made something to call our own. I enjoyed this aspect of the class the most as after the time and effort dedicated to these projects this semester, we created an actual physical object that we could admire and take pride in. Simultaneously, we worked on our own innovative healthcare ideas based off our imagination or past experiences. This project also stemmed from what we learned in class. Combining the technology of 3D design and printing was a perfect way to modernize our work. Science requires discussion, debate and other peoples’ opinions, so working on these projects in groups was highly beneficial. Three sets of hands working on the same ultimate goal was systematic and practical in both cases. While I did not hear any previous comments about this IDC, I did assume we would be going on more field trips. Understandably, the class length is not that long, but even sitting outside of Baruch in the courtyard with pleasant weather would have been nice.

The scientific field is expanding at great speed and the ethics lecture was perfectly placed to conclude our semester. It is always important to abide by a moral compass and to make sure that the ultimate results of an experiment or potential healthcare innovation are to serve the greater good or enhance already proven scientific fact. Lastly, the in-class science experiments were highly appreciated. They added that extra spontaneity that is often desired in a science class. I hope to take what I have learned from IDC: Science and Technology of New York City and apply it to my future science classes, while taking the mundane and making the scientific method a bit more spontaneous and applicable.