It's a little late but here is my reflections wrap-up. Throughout the semester as I was writing these reflections, I felt myself improving slowly. More so than my writing, I realized that I had changed my way of thinking. For the first couple of weeks, it was difficult for me to write enough on a topic. I had things to say, but they weren't conveyed properly. The depth was shallow and the connections were weak. Sometimes, it felt as though I was writing an essay to please someone rather than my own thoughts.
As the semester progressed, I was was able to organize my thoughts on paper before writing. I was also able to discuss more on topics by exploring them a little deeper and trying to connect them to my own experiences. It was easiest to write when I felt stronger with topics that personally related to me. I also tried to create new ideas and methods of organizing ideas so that I can effectively convey my message across. In conclusion, the four reflections that I picked were the ones that I put the most effort into. The topics connected and resonated within me.
1st Quarter - September: Establishing a Conversation
4th Quarter - December: On classes towards major
Choice - November: Opportunities to meet upperclassmen
Choice - October: Alignment
To be very honest, I had a difficult time choosing the four reflections that I did. There were different merits to each piece that I had written. From the beginning, I had chosen a very informal style of writing. This is actually something that I am unaccustomed to doing. I had chosen to write as though I were there physically speaking to someone in person. I feel that the best way to hold a conversation or to convey a message to maintain a familiar contact. Sure, there are times to be formal, however, daily conversation is exceedingly informal and yet very organized and informative.
Well, it is the end of the semester, but I don't think that it's goodbye just yet. I think that I will continue to keep this blog updated for a while. It is a fun way to speak your thoughts out loud and to clear your head by writing down everything that you're thinking of. I enjoyed the class this semester and felt that we accomplished quite a bit. I certainly learned a lot and changed my views on a lot of things.
Informal as the writing may be, if you do more of it I'd encourage you to linger on the same theme a while longer. Most of your pieces have an approach like - get in, say what you have to say, and then get out. You are very clear on what you say. But there is little mystery, drama, or conflict. Not all things have such ready resolution. Perhaps you might try writing one or two pieces that end in muddle rather than in clarity.
ReplyDeleteI do hope you keep at it after the course is over. I wish that for the entire class, though I know not everyone will do it. It is one good way to stay into your own learning and have fun at the same time.