Ashley Nakedhead
English Composition 1213
Beth Hammett
May 05, 2025
Word Count : 520
Reflection Essay
Embarking on a journey in English after only one prior class in 20 years was akin to stepping into unfamiliar territory. Despite harboring a long-standing aversion towards the subject, my recent experience in this course has reshaped my perspective and equipped me with invaluable skills, transforming a daunting endeavor into an enlightening adventure.
I've always hated writing essays, particularly because of the rigid structures and expectations associated with academic writing. However, throughout this course, I discovered that writing can be both enjoyable and rewarding, especially when engaging with meaningful topics.
The assignment that significantly enhanced my ability to communicate in writing was my argument proposal on cruise ship crimes. This project not only allowed me to explore a subject that intrigued me but also challenged me to address important issues of safety and accountability
within the cruise industry. Through this endeavor, I gained a deeper understanding of the topic while improving my skills in articulating my thoughts persuasively.
One of the significant struggles I faced during this project was crafting a strong thesis statement, particularly while working on the rhetorical essay. I initially believed I could easily formulate an argument that would resonate with my audience. However, I soon found myself grappling with the nuances of effectively framing my thesis. I realized that a compelling thesis needed to be specific and focused, guiding the reader through my argument. This challenge forced me to rethink my approach and refine my ideas, ultimately leading to a clearer and more impactful thesis.
Grammar was another hurdle I encountered. I recognized that improving my grammatical skills was essential for conveying my ideas effectively. As I worked on my argument proposal, I dedicated additional time to selecting precise language and ensuring that my writing flowed coherently.
Punctuation also posed challenges. Commas, colons, and semicolons often left me puzzled. I found it particularly difficult to use commas correctly and to determine when to employ colons for quotes or semicolons for linking complete sentences. To overcome these obstacles, I conducted thorough research and sought guidance on punctuation rules, which became an essential part of my writing development.
Adapting to MLA format was another significant aspect of this assignment that caught me off guard, a skill I used last semester but still struggled with. The difference between APA and MLA formats was initially confusing, but I soon learned that APA citations follow quotes within sentences, while MLA citations appear at the end. Understanding how to format a Works Cited page with hanging indents and alphabetical order was crucial. These skills were vital, impacting not only this course but all my future academic writing.
Looking ahead, I am hopeful that the knowledge gained from this assignment will have a lasting impact on my future. This course has reinforced the importance of effective communication, and I am grateful for the opportunity to refine my writing skills. The time invested in this course has been invaluable, equipping me with the tools to express my ideas more clearly and engage with topics that resonate deeply with me
