Reflection

Even though I came to Ringling for an art major, I was required to take this writing course. At first, I thought it would be the same blatant and distasteful repeat of the high school writing classes, so I came in without much expectation. But this was not so. Although I did not intend to, I learned more in this writing class than any previous literary course taken beforehand. I believe this is because this writing class also focused its primary concern on how to make us a better narrator, a better storyteller, which is primarily what an artist is.

            As the first class of my Monday mornings, it is hard to get motivated to write. But this course has taught me to pull through and become a better writer. I truly believe that my writing abilities have changed drastically. Not only did this course teach me how to write properly, I was taught how to read properly. I never thought that I would have to learn how to read again, especially in college. But nonetheless, I can pinpoint an author’s direct and deliberate wording, sentence structures, and the aesthetics of writing. Getting many professional viewpoints and tips from actual writers was an enormous help to us students. Getting tips from famous writers such as Stephen King was even better, for these famous writers have bonafide evidence that their word goes. These guidelines are essential in knowing how to write a successful essay and how to create a good composition while retaining your argument.

            There were many projects, in class assignments, and studies we had to complete that were beneficial to our progression. A significant project that stood out to me more than the others was the snapshot portfolio. I absolutely adore creating short stories, and it was one of my strong suits. To create these five individual shorts was an arduous task, but a very satisfying one at that.  Even in these stories, it was extremely evident that I progressed as an individual. A little excerpt from one of my short stories: “He awoke. His eyes fluttered open, being greeted by a midnight sky. The velvet sky was like a wondrous canvas, etched with paint and shifting colors, hues of beauty captured in a majestic grandiose scale. The stars were burning with a feverish light, desperate to be noticed. Each star was a freckle upon the sky, building together as if a foundation of atoms woven to make a body. “ This little tidbit is proof I have developed as a writer. I would never have written so elegantly in my high school career.

            This writing course was essential to me, as a computer animator. If I had a redo of this semester, I believe I would have done nothing differently. I am actually quite satisfied on how I have progressed as a writer, and an artist. The advice I would lend to next year’s students is not to underestimate this class; for even though it is not a media art, it is vital for your narrative capabilities.