Farewell Fall 09

Dear 1101 & 1102 Classes:


One of the perks of teaching college is that I have the opportunity to meet new minds and see fresh faces every 4 months. But one of the down sides of teaching college is that it goes by so very quickly.

It has been a hectic semester for you and I both but my hope is that I have equipped you all with the tools that you need in order to continue on with your undergraduate studies and to be strong critical thinkers who are intrigued and enticed to ask question after question after question, because questions lead to research and research leads to solutions and new ideas.

As you have become critical thinkers, you have in turn become stronger writers, and we did a lot of writing. I would like to think that most of you have walked away with a better appreciation for the art of writing and the art of rhetoric. Now that you know the techniques involved in argument, whether it be to persuade, inform or entertain, you now understand the importance of knowing who your audience is, what your purpose is, how to appeal to your audience through the use of logos, ethos and pathos, what kinds of claims can be used, and how not to commit a fallacy.

For this final blog I would like for you to write an entry describing your experience during this semester of ENC 1101 or 1102 as well as your overall experience of the semester with all of your classes. I can recall many of you being enrolled in 5 or more classes, some of you being married or engaged, and some of you working full time jobs while juggling school, just to name a few.

Additionally, I would like for you to write about what you have learned this semester in 1101 or 1102, how you feel as a writer after having taken this course, and what you would recommend that I could do better. Also, write about whether or not the expectations you had of yourself and myself were met or not. Lastly (and most importantly for me) what you wish you would have learned in high school that would have potentially helped your performance and understanding of writing and rhetoric prior to this class.

My final thoughts...if you see me around campus don't be afraid to say hello or think that I would have forgotten you. One of the greatest aspects of teaching college is bumping into a student over the years and witnessing their growth and change. If you ever need to get in touch with me for help or advice or a letter of recommendation, please feel free to ask (but remember that I won't lie, so make sure I'm the right person you want to ask!).

In one way or another you have all touched my life and you will not be forgotten. I wish you all luck with your future endeavors and college experience and that you make the most of it and your potential. (can you tell I'm a mom!? :) )

With love,
Natasha