Daniel Bynum
Transferable Skills
This page is devoted to a few of the many transferable skills I have obtained and developed through my liberal arts education.
Critical Thinking
The ability to critically think about an idea, problem, or subject is very applicable to a career in the arts. I have the ability to approach a situation with a clear and open mind and make my decisions using planned and reasoned thoughts. Taking the time to think through a problem and consider it from different angles can save time later in the future and it is a much safer way to proceed than to just jump right into something.
Creativity
While creativity flourishes very well in the arts its growth and developement can come from a variety of different areas. I think my education at St. Olaf has helped my creativity in writing, reading, speaking, thinking, as well as in the arts. Creativity can be used to set you apart from a group. I can use my creativity to stand out in an art competition or an application which makes my chances of being selected much better.
Synthesis
One of the skills I think everyone develops from a liberal arts education is the ability to synthesize things that might not seem related at all. I have been exposed to many different fields of study and taken courses I wouldn't normally take if I had just attended an art school. I have not only learned to appreciate different kinds of art, but I feel encouraged to incorporate other disciplines into my own work. I can take two seemingly unrelated ideas and bring them together to compliment each other in ways others might not have thought to do.
Writing
Persuasive writing and written communication have become more and more present in all career fields but especially in the arts. Funding for the arts is always an issue but there is money out there for people who can write effectively. Grant writing and applications are necessary methods of obtaining money for art and my time at St. Olaf has developed my ability to write persuasively.
Interpersonal and Social
Communication and teamwork are key for any collaboartions. The interpersonal and social skills I have developed allow me to put people at ease when interacting with them and it makes me much more approachable. I can communicate effectively with other people to accomplish projects I would not be able to do on my own.