When I started ENG 1301, I knew writing in English would be one of my biggest challenges. At the beginning of the semester, I was not confident about my grammar, the structure of my paragraphs, or my ability to communicate my ideas clearly. Throughout this course, however, I learned that writing is a step-by-step process that requires drafting, feedback, revision, and patience. As I look back at my work, I can see real improvement in the way I analyze texts, organize ideas, and express myself as a writer.

One of the most important projects for me was my Narrative Essay, Learning to Not Give Up. This assignment helped me understand how to use personal experience to deliver a meaningful message. I learned how to build a story with a clear beginning, middle, and end while adding emotions, details, and reflection. Writing about a difficult moment taught me how to connect my writing to real life and how to make my voice stronger on the page.

My Analysis Essay, where I examined desire and responsibility across multiple literary texts, pushed me to think more critically. This project required comparing authors, choosing strong quotes, and explaining connections between different works. It taught me how to read with purpose and how to support an argument using evidence. I also learned the importance of transitions, organization, and explaining my reasoning clearly so readers can follow my point.

My Expository Essay on The Night of the Iguana helped me learn how to use research to support an idea. I had to read scholarly sources, take notes, and integrate citations properly using MLA format. This assignment improved my ability to write academically and taught me how to bring together biography, historical context, and literary analysis in a structured way. It also helped me become more confident using outside sources to strengthen my writing.

Another part of the writing process that helped me grow was revision. After receiving feedback from my professor, I learned how to identify unclear sentences, strengthen my thesis statements, and adjust paragraph organization. I realized that the first draft is never the final draft — improvement comes from rewriting. Peer review sessions and using AI tools responsibly also helped me see my writing from different perspectives.

Overall, ENG 1301 has helped me become a stronger and more intentional writer. I am now more aware of how to plan, draft, revise, and edit my work. I understand how to use evidence, organize my thoughts, and communicate ideas clearly. As a student-athlete, I learned to treat writing the same way I treat golf: with discipline, patience, and consistent practice. I feel more prepared for ENG 1302 and more confident in my ability to write for college classes and future professional opportunities.