It has been almost a decade since my last English writing class, the first one being from Slippery Rock University in 2007 right after I graduated high school. I'd like to think I've come a long way in my writing since then, having improved in several specific areas over the years. I remember the disappointment getting a C on my 10-page research project, even though I felt like I was one of the stronger writers in the class. Looking back on it now I realize the validity of the professor's criticism: far too much bias. In my writings since then, I've learned how to approach persuasion from both objective and subjective standpoints, and how to use each as I relate to the audience. I feel that I can consistently present a compelling and cohesive argument using reliable research methods, and that I can employ clear syntax and effective stylistic tools to increase my persuasive appeal.
Despite these strengths, I certainly have some areas to improve on. Spelling is something I have constantly struggled with; I usually have to rely on a spell check service more heavily than I'd like to admit. I also feel that I am too reliant on an academic approach to persuasive endeavors. I try to avoid appealing to emotional triggers for various reasons, but honestly I don't deny their effectiveness in the ultimate goal of persuasion. I also feel I am not a very good presenter, as I tend to get nervous in performance settings. This is something I have always struggled with in my musical life, and one of the main reasons I focus on composition and academia rather than actual performance.
I'd say one of the more salient highlights of this class is the experience of working with a group. I was fortunate to be working with others who were not only intelligent and focused but also responsible and communicative, and I felt a strong sense of willingness to cooperate and achieve the goals we would set. The experience helped me recognize the effectiveness of group work when the interests of each individual are so well aligned, which is a lesson that I feel will positively impact my work in other pursuits.
My goals moving on from this class are to address the weaknesses I described - spelling, presenting, and connecting more with my audience on an emotional level. The aspect of audience is certainly present in the world of music composition, and knowing how to effectively appeal to listeners is directly related to my success. Persuasive writing is also present in the peripheral work of my field; convincing patrons and employers of the concepts represented in my music will be necessary for all of my works, and asserting my opinions on approaches to composition will grant legitimacy to my (hopefully) unique methods. Improving my ability to do these things will be my primary goal as I seek gainful employment and pursue graduate studies.
Despite these strengths, I certainly have some areas to improve on. Spelling is something I have constantly struggled with; I usually have to rely on a spell check service more heavily than I'd like to admit. I also feel that I am too reliant on an academic approach to persuasive endeavors. I try to avoid appealing to emotional triggers for various reasons, but honestly I don't deny their effectiveness in the ultimate goal of persuasion. I also feel I am not a very good presenter, as I tend to get nervous in performance settings. This is something I have always struggled with in my musical life, and one of the main reasons I focus on composition and academia rather than actual performance.
I'd say one of the more salient highlights of this class is the experience of working with a group. I was fortunate to be working with others who were not only intelligent and focused but also responsible and communicative, and I felt a strong sense of willingness to cooperate and achieve the goals we would set. The experience helped me recognize the effectiveness of group work when the interests of each individual are so well aligned, which is a lesson that I feel will positively impact my work in other pursuits.
My goals moving on from this class are to address the weaknesses I described - spelling, presenting, and connecting more with my audience on an emotional level. The aspect of audience is certainly present in the world of music composition, and knowing how to effectively appeal to listeners is directly related to my success. Persuasive writing is also present in the peripheral work of my field; convincing patrons and employers of the concepts represented in my music will be necessary for all of my works, and asserting my opinions on approaches to composition will grant legitimacy to my (hopefully) unique methods. Improving my ability to do these things will be my primary goal as I seek gainful employment and pursue graduate studies.
