Hawksites Cover Letter

Dear Portfolio Reader, 

 

Before joining English-170, I was fairly optimistic of my time here. I have always been able to confidently back my writing, but I knew that this class would give me a chance to tighten up some of my skills. Since a child, I have been in love with writing structures, grammar, creative writing, and anything in general regarding English. I was optimistic about this class and about my future with writing because I always enjoy learning more and improving my skill. Improving is not always a task that comes easy, but it sure is rewarding. In a previous paper I have done called Exploring The Non-GMO Verified Company, I was able to learn the art of conciseness. My Professor had let me know that the anecdote I used in the beginning of the paper was great– I just needed to get to my point a little quicker. This is a comment that I first received in fourth grade, and although I have since improved, my lengthy sentence-style is still apparent. I have always had a lot to say. I have been able to grow into my writing in my more recent papers– applying my Professor’s voice in the back of my head– and creating more concise points. 

The use of pathos, ethos, and logos has especially spoken to me over the course of this class. My professor has been able to break down this concept and analyze it while we contemplate the author’s intent. Due to routine, I have been able to use my analysis and apply it to other texts, papers and assignments of all different nature, for all types of classes. Tools like analyzing the author’s purpose aid me in establishing focus and purpose in my own writing. Being in English 170 has overall been able to change the framework of how I view the world. For example, synthesizing is an especially important skill that I’ve been able to strengthen this year. It isn’t easy to integrate sources in a way that interacts in the same paragraph, but being able to practice repeatedly in my essays definitely helped. The they say/ I say method goes along with the concept of synthesizing. I learned the importance of integrating my own input after my quote, so that my point is precisely explained. A system used in an English 170 that has greatly improved my writing is the peer review system. A simple system as old as time– but a sure one. Lastly, my writing strengths are definitely my personal anecdotes, my vocabulary, and my grasp of a topic. One of my struggles is definitely swiftness in getting to my point– or conciseness. However, through my professor’s instruction and corrections, I have been able to improve my writing. 

English 170 has reinforced my strong writing skills while also strengthening my struggle areas in writing, and I am overall grateful to have been able to practice and improve with each paper worked on. I am truly optimistic that I will be able to successfully move on to my next English class adequately prepared.

 

Best Regards,

Alexa