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What I have learned:
1. Initial expectations and course overview
Reflecting on my journey in MMS 172 so far, I honestly feel like I’ve been on a rollercoaster of learning, growth, and self-discovery. When I first enrolled, my mindset was fairly simple: pick up a handful of audio editing tricks and become a bit more comfortable with some digital tools. I wasn’t bracing myself for the vast ocean of knowledge waiting for me below the surface. Very quickly, I realized this course was about so much more than manipulating sound files—it plunged us into the nuts and bolts of how sound exists and moves in the world, how our bodies process it, and how environment and technology interact to shape what we hear.
2. Deepening appreciation and active listening
To be truthful, I never pictured myself poring over psychoacoustics readings or analyzing the way sound reflects across a wall. I had expected a hands-on workshop, focused on clicking through editing software and creating quick audio pieces. But the structure of this course forced me to take a step back and investigate the fundamental principles at play. Learning about how sound waves travel, how our ears make sense of those vibrations, or how even the tiniest change in my recording setup alters the quality of what’s captured—it all made me develop a much deeper appreciation and understanding for the craft. Listening isn’t passive for me anymore. I catch myself analyzing background noises, cringing at muddied acoustics in public places, and feeling genuinely excited whenever I notice something subtle in a song or a film.
3. Recording environments and acoustic treatment
The shift in my awareness is surprising. I’m now that person who notices how my voice bounces in a tiled bathroom, or who fiddles with mic placement way more than necessary just to hear the difference. In Unit II, we tackled recording environments, and it was eye-opening (and actually kind of funny) to learn that egg trays stapled to the wall really aren’t the secret to a good home studio. That myth stuck with me for years! Instead, I’m finally grasping why proper acoustic treatment matters, and how it works to separate the pros from the hobbyists.
4. Microphone types and technical troubleshooting
And microphones—wow, what a universe. I used to record things with whatever mic was easiest for me, not realizing the pickup pattern could completely change the sound. The difference between cardioid and omnidirectional isn’t just a fancy word game; it’s the difference between a crisp vocal track and a recording full of unwanted echo or background noise. Knowing how to choose and use mics has made my sessions so much smoother, and I can actually troubleshoot problems instead of just getting frustrated.
5. Creative project planning and application
For this course’s “big” project, I decided to push my boundaries by planning a cover of “Mona Lisa” by j-hope. I’ve always loved singing, but this is my chance to wear the producer’s hat—from arranging harmonies and working through EQ settings, to figuring out how to do the song justice with the gear I have. The planning stage alone was both intimidating and inspiring: things I never considered before (like which vocal style to use, where in my house to set up, or how to prepare my files for mastering) are now front and center in my mind. I’ve been flipping back through the guidelines from previous units to help me think holistically about every step. There’s an overwhelming amount to juggle, sure, but it’s empowering to realize how much control and creativity I can bring to the process.
6. Peer inspiration and motivation
One unexpected highlight has been looking through my classmates’ projects. Seeing people design podcasts, craft electronic soundscapes, or script entire narrative audio dramas has been motivating and a bit humbling. It’s clear that everyone is pouring themselves into their work, and that collective energy pushes me to aim higher. There’s one project—a fictional podcast with original voice acting—that really blew me away. It set a standard that I’m both nervous and excited to try to reach.
7. Self-doubt, inspiration and growth mindset
As we move toward the end of the trimester, I’d be lying if I said I’m not feeling the pressure. Listening to samples from past students, some of which are extremely polished, occasionally brings up self-doubt. But mostly, I see it as inspiration. If they made something amazing from where I am now, maybe I can get there too—or at the very least, I can get closer than I thought possible. Rather than shying away from that challenge, I’m starting to lean into it with curiosity.
8. Course Impact and looking ahead
This class has taught me something crucial: sound isn’t just a background element—it’s a force that shapes mood, meaning, and memory. Harnessing it well takes patience, technical skill, and imagination. Thanks to this course, I finally feel like I have a real toolkit to play with. So here’s to the last stretch of MMS 172—more trial and error, more mixing and experimenting, and, hopefully, a final song cover that I can be genuinely proud of.
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