I think, as an engineering major, that it is good that STEM majors are required to take an english class. Too many programmers and engineers are geniuses and can solve any problem they come across but being incredible at coding or CAD modeling doesn’t mean anything if you can’t communicate your ideas and discoveries. This is especially prevalent in research, where scientists have to publish papers detailing their discoveries, and too frequently they can’t communicate their ideas effectively. I came into this class with a strong background in academic and research writing, but in this quarter, I improved my ability to cater my style and tone to specific audiences so my writing is more impactful, which is important because effective writing translates to good writing. So the stakes of this portfolio is my future ability to communicate effectively in my career, which is very important! Good writing ability may put me above the competition when I apply for my first job, and future jobs beyond, so in a way this english composition laid down the foundation for everything I will do in the future, even if it isn’t directly related. I think I still need to improve my conclusions, which don’t tend to have enough finality, and my structure, which tends to loosen and not be as cohesive towards the middle of my essays, when I lose focus. I have improved my revision capabilities because I never had to revise a paper this extensively before, so it was good practice—particularly in Major Assignment, which I added three pages to after revision. I also improved my ability to find accurate, reliable sources that include both/all sides of the argument. I’ll continue to improve my writing by reading a lot—I love reading—and in my engineering-specific writing class. I came into this class with a solid foundation, and this quarter refined many of my skills.  

Thank you for reading my portfolio, and have a great winter break! Here's a turtle waving goodbye :)