The Final Blog: Reflections

This class has been the most challenging course I have ever taken for writing. Coming from a journalism studies program, I have been forced to conform to a certain style of writing that has started to become like second nature. When thinking of sports writing, I see a very journalist, direct and to-the-point style of writing, far from the style that was taught in class.

At first I did not agree with the methodology of the class, most of the chalkboard days seemed utterly pointless other than to provide us with busy work. As the semester went on and clarity struck, I realized it was an effective tool to break down the works of these other great authors.

In most writing class, the professors find my writing to be instantly impressive—but in this class that was not the case. My first assignment came off flat and un-inspired, far from the level of work I am used to producing. I started to become frustrated, blaming the class structure itself, instead of looking within at my own flaws.

I was published from the very tender age of 16, giving me a certain sense of confidence and accomplishment that most writers have to wait years to obtain. I was given a monthly column in my local, hometown newspaper to express my views through the eyes of high school student. The instant popularity my column generated shifted my confidence into overdrive, giving me a slight ego that makes it hard for me to understand the imperfections in my writing. Professor Emerson’s plan to make our writing better through editing and revision were two areas that were vastly unfamiliar to me and often became frustrating throughout the course.

I have often had trouble condensing my writing without becoming wordy or saying too much in a single sentence. Grammar has always been my biggest flaw, especially with comma splicing, which has always been my most prevalent weakness. This course has given me the opportunity to work on those issues, sharpening my writing, and giving me a firmer grasp on the grammatical aspects of the English language.

Overall, it was a pretty good class, I feel like I learned a great deal about the importance of revising my writing. The other students were a good bunch to be around, lots of different personalities that blended together for some entertaining moments. I appreciate everything I’ve learned and I only hope to improve my writing as I gain experience and maturity.