Reflective Essay : Exit Level

Through the ENGLCOM course, I have acquired the practice of writing essays using steps like the R.A.F.T. and making an outline. Unlike before, I would, as soon as I have decided on a topic, write immediately without even researching about it or thinking about how I would write it. I have also improved my spelling skills and how i organize my paragraphs. Before the course, I had a few spelling problems and it caused me to either misspell the word or opt to use other words similar to the one I wanted to use which i have no difficulty in spelling. I also learned more about plagiarism and ways on how to avoid it like paraphrasing and using the APA method. I was not very familiar with paraphrasing and using the APA method but after taking the course, I now have enough knowledge on how to use them and I could avoid plagiarism in my work. I also had the chance to work with my other classmates in some of the essays and I realized that the comments of my classmates were helpful in improving my essay. Although at first, I was really shy to let my classmates read and evaluate my work, I was afraid of what they would think about my work but after they have given me constructive criticism and some have given me tips on how i could improve my essay, I learned to listen to their advice and also gave me more ideas for my paper.

I wrote in my entrance reflective essay that i expected the course to be helpful in developing my reading and writing skills. After spending one term in taking the course, I think that my expectations were met because I have noticed certain changes in the way I write my essays. I have improved in different aspects and have learned a lot about reading and writing. ENGLCOM helped me reach my goals because the course had taught me things that I didn't know much about and those lessons that were not taught to us in high school. I had the chance to try and do different types of essays which I didn't think that I would be able to write and got to talk about topics that I really wanted to write and discuss about. All in all, ENGLCOM was a good learning experience not only in topics about reading and writing, but also a way of helping students, including myself, express themselves in the best way they can.