We just finished the writers’ panel and it was far more intimate than I anticipated. All our guests had wonderful insights and seemed genuinely interested in our thoughts as well.
As the school year comes to an end, I find myself, as I usually do, reflecting on what has happened and what I have achieved. I’ll focus on our English class right now. It was unlike any other classes I have taken and definitely gave me a new outlook on my city and on locations in general. Before English 380, I simply could never be bothered to seriously consider what my city meant to me and the effect it has on my life. Now after each class, I want to just walk around and breathe in the city and go explore a place we had discussed that day. Prior to this class, I was one of those people who just couldn’t see any exciting or distinguishing features about the city (other than the obvious few). But I am happy to say this view has changed or perhaps not changed entirely but has taken on a new meaning to me. I still think Edmonton is a mediocre city in many ways but now, I can appreciate it for just simply being a great city. Sometimes interesting things occur, sometimes it feels as though nothing at all is happening, sometimes everyone I meet is endlessly amusing and friendly while other times I feel as though Edmontonians can be cold and judgemental. It is a city with many sides to its personality and just as many opportunities and for that, I will appreciate it.
And to end this final blog post, I want to set a few academic goals for myself for next year (so feel free not to read). Next year, I hope to:
· Do all my reading thoroughly and punctually (something I nearly achieved with this class)
· Start my assignments prior to just before the due date, make time to edit them and then edit them some more.
· Try to be more vocal in class and just let go of all insecurities about my views
· Go see the instructor even if I’m not failing or desperately in need of help
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I love your post. I use to find Edmonton a mediocre city as well but now I see it as a swirl of activity, that just like a dance has its down time and its moments of climax. This class has taught me to not judge Edmonton so harshly, and the writers gave such a positive insight onto the city that I now feel proud to call home. I read your academic goals as well and that is an excellent plan! I hope that it works out for you, I know I need to remember those points as well. Have a great summer.
ReplyDeleteThank you Emmy! Have a great summer as well. :)
ReplyDeleteYour goals will be printed and posted on my wall for future reference - seriously, academic life isn't easy, is it? I too almost stayed caught up with the readings in this class, they were somehow more interesting than readings in other courses. Possibly because there was a connection of place in them. I am also encouraged to explore more of the city, somewhere I haven't been before. This summer will be the perfect time to start!
ReplyDeleteWow, Carys. Reading your post was like reading my own mind. I can relate to absoulutely everything you mentioned.
ReplyDeleteI especially liked your academic goals for next year. This is the first class in all that i've taken in university that i've gone to without missing a a singleclass. I have also read all the readings on time(with a page missed here and there). I agree with Crystal, I think it has something to do with the ablility of relating to the material.
I also can't wait for summer... I'm going to make a point to go to places I've never seen before. ...even via a different mode of transportation. As of right now, I rely 100% on my car, but I'm planning on ditching it as much as possible come May. =)