Valeria h.

This semester, I learned a lot about myself as a writer and also about language in general. Before this class, I mostly thought writing was about following rules, using correct grammar, and sounding formal. I did not really think about my voice or my experiences as being important in academic writing. Throughout the semester, especially through major assignments and peer feedback, I learned my writing style, unlearned the idea that Standard English is the only correct form of English, realized how helpful feedback from others can be, and understood that I actually have a lot of freedom in my writing. These lessons helped me grow not just as a student, but also as a person who is more confident in how I express ideas.

One of the biggest things I learned this semester is my own writing style. This became clear during my Language and Literacy Narrative and my translation 1, where I wrote about my experience coming to the United States again as an older child and learning English. I focused on how Standard English was expected of me and how I felt ashamed of my English when I was younger. Writing about something so personal made me realize that my writing is strongest when I tell stories and reflect on my experiences. I noticed that my writing becomes more clear and meaningful when I connect ideas to real moments in my life. This assignment helped me understand that my style is more reflective and personal, and that is not a weakness like I once thought.

Another important thing I learned is that Standard English is not the only valid form of English. Before this class, I believed that speaking and writing in Standard English was the only way to be taken seriously in school. Reading Amy Tan’s Mother Tongue helped change that mindset. Through the rhetorical situation worksheet, I had to think about why the piece was written and who it was meant for. This helped me understand that language works differently depending on the situation and the audience. Amy Tan showed that her mother’s English, even though it was not standard, was still meaningful and powerful. This made me realize that language does not need to sound perfect to communicate ideas clearly.

I also learned that getting input from others can really improve my writing. At first, I did not feel very confident sharing my work during peer reviews. It felt uncomfortable having others point out what I did wrong. Especially because I don’t think writing is my strongest skill. However, during peer reviews for all my essays, classmates left comments suggesting where I could explain more, clarify ideas, or reorganize parts of my writing. These comments helped me see my work in ways I could not see on my own. Peer feedback helped me expand my ideas and make my essays stronger. It also taught me that writing is a process and not something that needs to be perfect right away.

Lastly, I learned that I have a lot of freedom in my writing. This became especially clear during my Language and Literacy Narrative and my Synthesis Essay, where I argued that Standard English should not be the main focus of teaching in schools. These assignments helped me realize that academic writing does not mean I have to erase my voice. I can write in a style that reflects who I am while still making strong arguments. Learning this made writing feel less stressful and more enjoyable. Overall, this semester helped me gain confidence in my writing and understand that my voice matters, even if it does not always fit traditional expectations.