My major projects in this class have taught me a lot about the importance of critical thinking, effective communication, and revising my work to improve clarity and strength. Through analyzing texts and creating my own rhetorical criticism, I’ve learned how to closely examine how messages are constructed and how they influence their audiences. These projects have also shown me the value of incorporating feedback from peers and revising my drafts to make my arguments more convincing and well-organized. Additionally, I’ve gained a better understanding of how to connect theories and concepts from class to real-world examples, which has helped me develop a more analytical mindset. Overall, these projects have improved my writing skills, taught me the importance of revision, and helped me become a more thoughtful and confident communicator.
Major Project 1
This project showed me how journaling and reading the Bible have significantly improved my literacy and personal growth. These practices helped me manage emotions, build resilience, and deepen my faith, especially during challenging times like finals and emotional struggles. They enhanced my ability to reflect, understand myself better, and apply lessons from biblical stories to my life. Overall, I learned that literacy extends beyond academics and is a powerful tool for navigating life's challenges, fostering critical thinking, and personal development.
Major Project 2
This project helped me understand Sierra Lenzen’s creative writing process, which is spontaneous, emotional, and driven by inspiration. Through an interview and analysis of her notes and work, I learned that Sierra’s writing is a reflection of her personality and emotions, often capturing fleeting ideas on her phone and drawing from personal experiences, music, and nature. Her approach emphasizes authenticity, emotional expression, and enjoyment, showing that effective writing doesn’t have to be strictly structured. Overall, studying Sierra’s process expanded my appreciation for diverse creative practices and highlighted the importance of spontaneity and personal connection in writing.
Major Project 3
This project helped me understand how the PSA "Seize the Awkward" uses intertextuality—such as references to celebrities, symbols, and personal stories—to normalize mental health conversations. By featuring well-known figures and relatable narratives, the PSA builds credibility, reduces stigma, and encourages support and openness. Analyzing its rhetorical strategies deepened my appreciation for how cultural references shape perceptions and inspire social change. Being able to spread mental health awareness has alway been a top priority in my life since loosing my cousin to it. Being able to learn more about it and make it more personable is just the beginning! Overall, I learned that effective messaging often relies on strategic borrowing of familiar stories and symbols to foster understanding, empathy, and positive behavioral shifts around mental health.