Exploring the Unexpected: Reflections on College English

Embarking on my freshman year in college introduced me to a plethora of subjects, some familiar and others entirely novel. While I delved into Algebra, Biology, and even Filipino, my encounter with College English proved to be an unfamiliar journey. Unlike my previous English classes, which predominantly centered around discussions of novels, this course presented a distinctive context. Throughout the first semester, I discovered the significance of a scratch paper in essay writing, honed the art of organizing my thoughts, and embraced the concept of writing from the heart rather than merely writing to pass.

The Noteworthy Scratch Paper: Unveiling Clarity in Expression

English 1 led me to appreciate the crucial role of a scratch paper in the essay writing process. Initially, I was accustomed to formulating my essays mentally, often resulting in meandering expressions. However, my professor's insistence on submitting scratch papers alongside our essays compelled me to adapt. The arduous process of transferring my thoughts onto paper and rewriting became a valuable lesson.

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As I approach my final essays now, the initial challenges of this practice have proven worthwhile in enhancing the clarity and coherence of my writing.

The act of using a scratch paper, seemingly a mundane tool, evolved into a transformative aspect of my writing process. It became a canvas for my thoughts, a space where I could mold and refine my ideas before presenting them in their final form. Initially resistant to this method, I soon realized its profound impact on my ability to articulate ideas effectively.

The scratch paper ceased to be a mere preliminary step; it became a dynamic tool for shaping the contours of my essays.

What began as an enforced practice became a habit that cultivated a disciplined approach to essay writing. Each stroke of the pen on the scratch paper became a deliberate choice, a step towards precision. The process of revising, which once seemed laborious, evolved into a gratifying exercise in refinement. The scratch paper, once relegated to the background, emerged as a silent yet influential partner in my journey to articulate thoughts with clarity and purpose.

Mastering the Art of Organization: A Skill Beyond Essay Writing

An essential skill I acquired in English 1 transcends essay writing and extends into various aspects of my daily activities — the ability to organize my thoughts. The introduction of essay outlines, a concept I initially considered unnecessary, revolutionized my approach. Contrary to my prior belief that essay writing was a spontaneous process, I learned the necessity of crafting an outline.

Creating an essay outline emerged as a structured roadmap, guiding me through the labyrinth of my ideas. Each section represented a checkpoint, ensuring that my thoughts followed a logical progression. Initially daunting, the process of outlining soon became an indispensable step in my writing ritual. It transformed the chaotic dance of ideas into a synchronized symphony of coherent thoughts.

The skill of organizing my thoughts, honed through essay outlines, permeated various facets of my academic and personal life. I found myself approaching tasks with a newfound clarity, breaking down complex ideas into manageable components. The once-intimidating prospect of managing multiple responsibilities became a structured endeavor, mirroring the systematic approach instilled by the act of crafting essay outlines.

Writing from the Heart: A Journey of Self-Expression

A fundamental lesson from English 1 is the emphasis on writing from the heart rather than writing solely to meet academic requirements. Unlike my high school experiences, where I tailored essays to impress teachers with topics of their interest, College English provided the privilege of choosing topics that genuinely intrigued me.

This newfound freedom in selecting essay topics not only fueled my curiosity but also paved the way for authentic self-expression. The process of writing transcended the confines of academic exercises; it became a medium through which I could articulate my passions, opinions, and reflections. The act of expressing myself through writing ceased to be a mechanical task; it transformed into an exploration of my innermost thoughts and convictions.

Writing from the heart introduced an element of sincerity and enthusiasm into my essays. No longer bound by the constraints of conforming to external expectations, I found joy in weaving narratives that resonated with my personal experiences and perspectives. The essays became more than assignments; they evolved into a platform for me to engage with the subject matter on a profound level.

The journey of self-expression through writing extended beyond the confines of the classroom. I discovered the therapeutic nature of articulating my thoughts on paper, using words as a cathartic release. The essays became a mirror reflecting my evolving beliefs and a record of my intellectual and emotional journey through the semester.

Overall, the amalgamation of lessons from College English transcended my initial expectations. It aligns with the adage my mom often shares — that college is a phase where one must anticipate the unexpected, be it in academic contexts or personal experiences. The journey through English 1 unfolded as a transformative exploration, unraveling the layers of effective communication, structured thinking, and genuine self-expression.