As a required course of my curriculum, I was not sure what to expect coming into the ENGL 301 course. I am really happy that I chose to take this course instead of substituting this course with a different course. The course has taught me all the writing tools and techniques that are relevant and important in the current job market. Specifically, students are asked to do many technical intensive writing tasks; composing a definition of a technical term to a non-technical audience, composing a resume given a job description, composing a reference letter request and cover letter ; and composing a formal research report given an audience and topic. These assignments have prepared me for the upcoming job search during my last academic year as well as my co-op job search next term.
This written assignments in this course have allowed me to realize my learning weaknesses as well as my strengths. The following sections will be dedicated to these two topics.
Weaknesses
Given the sheer amount of people that I have dealt with throughout my professional working time , I already know the importance of putting others before myself and what it can bring to the table in a business environment. However, the “Writing with You” attitude has really made me aware of the importance of thinking from the perspective of the reader. In addition, forgetting to name the documents with the appropriate name can be misleading and time-consuming for readers therefore to ensure all documents are named using the provided guideline, names of the documents are always created first now.
Writing with minimal use of pronouns such as “I” and “You” is no easy task for me as this is the first time I have encountered such practice. Furthermore, my previous writing style tends to express a simple idea with unnecessary words.
Strengths and Future
Throughout the course, with the provided instructions, I have been able to quickly grasp what is needed to deliver what is expected.
I tried to organize my report and assignment with appropriate sub section titles to provide as much convenience as possible to my readers.
The application assignment and the research report have really equipped me with the relevant technical writing skills a future job-seeking candidate need to succeed during the job searching process. Specifically, completing my most up to date resume, LinkedIn profile and cover letter really give a head start for the upcoming co-op application that I will be handling in the new year.
Two important aspects of the course will be included in all my future writings. First, I will ensure that my future writing incorporates the “Writing with you” attitude as much as possible. Second, I will try my best to deliver a message with minimal amount of words.
In short, this course has really set me up on the right path to communicate more concise and effectively.
Thank you for reading my final assessment blog in advance and glad to be your student this semester Dr.Erika.