Reflective Essay

Over the course of the semester, we have worked to transform our reading and writing practices and expectations.  We have also considered different modes of writing, both critical and creative, and we have discussed the role of literature and the discipline of English in the larger world.  This final essay asks you to shape your own thoughts, expectations, aspirations, and ideas as an English major into an essay.

Assignment:  Write a personal essay about your education.  What expectations do you have about your degree?  How have you changed as a reader, and how do you feel about those changes?  How have you changed as a writer?  Have you resisted the modes of reading and writing that seem important to your teachers?  If so, why?  Why do you feel the English major will be a good fit for you instead of some other field of study?  Education is always, ultimately, about transformation.  How do you hope the degree might transform your practices as a reader and a writer?  Just as importantly, how do you imagine it might it change or challenge the way you see the world and yourself?

Strategies.  To do well on this assignment, you need you need to offer a sincere, thoughtful, and honest inquiry into your chosen field.  A superficial essay that simply reiterates commonplaces won’t work.  Write an essay that really reflects your own aspirations and anxieties.  Don’t write what you think people want to hear.  More than anyone, this essay is a chance for you to wrestle with your own decisions, and to think about the impact of this major on your education and your life.  Take that chance by writing sincerely with depth and passion.

Format:  This isn’t an academic paper.  Instead of the usual info in the corner, center your title, and give yourself a “by” line below it. Your paper must be between 800-1500 double-spaced words, set in a plain font (preferably Times New Roman) with one-inch margins all around.  Your paper should rigorously follow MLA style guidelines.  Please consult the formatting handout for details.

**In Addition, you must include a copy of what you consider to be the best close reading assignment you wrote this semester**

Due Dates:  This assignment is due at the final.