Reflection on the Course Experience

1. Think about the assignments you’ve completed this term. Which one are you most proud of and why?

The assignment I am most proud of is the “Professional Recommendation Email.” This task required synthesizing various elements of persuasive writing and effectively communicating a recommendation in a professional context. I felt a significant sense of accomplishment in crafting a clear, concise, and persuasive email that adhered to professional standards. The process of refining my message to ensure it was both compelling and respectful of the recipient’s time was challenging but ultimately rewarding.

2. Think of one concrete skill you learned this month that you will continue to use. Please explain.

One concrete skill I learned this month is the application of the AIDA (Attention, Interest, Desire, Action) strategy in persuasive writing. This framework has proven incredibly useful in structuring messages that effectively capture the reader’s attention, build interest, stimulate desire, and prompt action. I plan to continue using this strategy in various professional contexts, such as marketing communications, proposal writing, and even social media posts, to ensure my messages are engaging and action-oriented.

3. The most valuable piece of advice I received from my instructor? Please explain.

The most valuable piece of advice I received is from my instructor, Jennie Donovan. She highlighted the importance of ensuring that my APA documentation is well-organized and consistent. Jennie pointed out that every in-text citation must have a corresponding reference entry and that these entries should be alphabetized. For example, she noticed inconsistencies in my citations and references, which could confuse readers. This feedback underscored the importance of meticulousness in academic writing and has encouraged me to be more diligent in my citation practices to ensure clarity and credibility in my work.

4. Now that you’ve completed the course, how has your idea of how you represent yourself through writing in the professional world changed? This can be related to the way you write on social media, too.

Completing this course has significantly altered my perception of professional writing. I now understand that professional communication goes beyond simply conveying information; it’s about building relationships, establishing credibility, and fostering trust. I’ve learned to be more intentional with my tone, structure, and content to ensure my writing reflects professionalism and respect for the reader. This awareness extends to social media, where I now strive to maintain a balance between authenticity and professionalism, recognizing the impact my online presence can have on my personal and professional reputation.