Final Reflection
Here is a link to a google document that has my final reflection. My final reflection is also shown below.
Throughout this semester, I slowly came to the realization that my writing sucks. It is dry, bland, and sparks little interest with my readers. Why do I say this? My high school teachers drilled the students at my school into writing with only an academic tone. Because our papers were dull, no one else besides our teachers would want to read the compositions we wrote. Once I started college, I was surprised to find the professors here at FSU encouraging us to give our personal narrative, instead of writing in a rigid style. I never particularly liked writing, but with the freedom of being able to express my unfiltered thoughts, I am finding that I enjoy it more. In ENC1101, I honestly felt that I did not gain knowledge or mature as a writer. It felt like during the entire semester, my teacher reviewed basic grammar rules.
In ENC2135, my perspective on writing style has changed drastically. After reviewing my project 2 final paper at my RWC appointment, I found that I am horrible at organizing my thoughts in a composition. There were dates not placed in chronological order, and my paper did not flow at all. My writing style can be summarized in to three words: immature, choppy, and sloppy. I wondered why my compositions seemed so awkward. Later on, I realized that I am struggling to let go of my writing habits from high school. In every one of my compositions, I try to find a balance between writing with an academic tone and adding personal flair. This was a challenge for me. These projects have helped me reach a point where I can create a composition that allows me to maintain an academic tone and add my personal opinions, without giving the impression of someone who is poorly educated.
I believe that one of the biggest reasons why my writing style has evolved this semester is because I finally comprehend the importance of exigence. Exigence is the center of writing masterpieces. It is the best way to communicate to your readers why you are writing about a certain topic, and how your life experiences have shaped your perspective on certain topics. Your audience will be able to tell if you are passionate about what you are writing. If you are authentic in your writing, then you will connect on a personal level with your readers and effectively convey your message.