My English 111 Journey

  One of my bad habits is forgetting how to cite my essays properly. Whenever the requirement comes up, I would have to research how to cite correctly for websites, books, articles, and in-text information. I review old essays, look at notes from English 101, read articles from online sources, or watch YouTube videos. It's always a struggle to remember this information after learning it each time. I realize this is an area I should work on. I'm currently studying to become a diesel mechanic, and these skills seem unnecessary. But one day, I know that I'll need this information. I understand that knowing how to cite information is essential in fields like journalism, academic research, or teaching English. Since I want to retain this information, I think one way to do that is to try writing an academic essay where proper citations are required. I could also write notes about citations and refer back to them as needed.

While in English 111, I learned how to set up a blog using Blogger, create an e-portfolio with Google Sites, make a letterhead and memo in Microsoft Word, and set up a LinkedIn profile. Unfortunately, I will not add these skills to my resume because I plan to pursue a career in diesel mechanics, and I believe these skills aren’t very relevant to my field. Instead, I want to focus on other skills and certifications that matter more. For example, I would list ASE certifications, show my experience with forklift operation, crane and rigging, and skills I learned at Empire Caterpillar, such as hydraulic systems, electrical work, and diagnostics. But I will carry on the knowledge I learned from this class.

  I often feel that my writing isn't good enough, and I need to improve in the future. I tend to overthink my writing assignments. I started writing but kept restarting because I thought what I had written didn't sound right. I also feel like I lack creativity and struggle to express my thoughts clearly in writing. However, I find technical writing somewhat easier. Technical writing focuses on the reader rather than the writer. Through my lessons on technical writing, I've learned that it doesn't matter how long the text is or how creative it is, as long as I communicate well with the reader. This means I need to focus on the information I want to share. My view of writing has changed since this class. Before, I didn't think about the reader when I wrote, whether for school or work. Now that I understand this, I will pay more attention to my audience, which will help me communicate better with my coworkers and bosses in my future jobs.