All readings and assignments for this course are centered on a theme, which helps unify and direct our studies. Basically, all of our work in this class is interconnected in some way, and I like to think that this quality offers students (and me!) a cohesive, in-depth learning experience. By the end of the semester, you can boast some expertise on the subject of our theme: the intricate process of self-discovery and of determining the choices that best align with our identities and values.
Our theme is “Introspection & Beyond,” through which we will contemplate the values, experiences, and interests that make us who we are, and survey the academic and career possibilities we can pursue based on these diverse aspects of our identities.
Some of the overarching tasks and questions we will address include:
How do self-awareness and mindfulness support our writing efforts?
What are the best ways to determine whether a field of study or career choice is right for us?
How do writing and communication skills serve us in our potential careers, fields of study, and in our daily lives?
What larger, “big picture” factors should we consider when deciding on a possible career and field of study?