This is a blog for my English writing and rhetoric class at Ohio University:
My name is Tom Johnson and I’m a junior studying mechanical engineering here at Ohio University. Before moving to Athens, I lived my entire life in Grove City, A suburb of Columbus, Ohio. My main interest in engineering is the field of environmental engineering is sustainable energy. In addition to my studies, I work as a lab tech at Ohio University’s Institute for Sustainable Energy and the Environment.
Prior to this current course in my junior year of a college the last writing and rhetoric class that I took was AP English III in my junior year of high school; almost four years ago. Being so long ago, my memory of the class is not particularly keen. However, I do remember that I didn’t like the rigid structure imposed on all of our assignments. It seemed very ‘old school’ and at the time, not particularly relevant towards making me an effective communicator in this modern age.
Based solely on the initial description, I am very much looking forward to this course. The heavy integration current technology emphasized in the course appeals very much to the engineer in me. Though the overall learning objectives of this course may be very similar to those of previous ones, It seems as though the course itself will be quite different. As I mentioned earlier, I like how this course will be utilizing forms of ‘new media’ and communication.
As a student in engineering, writing and communication is not particularly emphasized in a majority of my coursework. I hope that the skills I gain in this course will make me a more rounded communicator, both personally and professionally. Given my limited experience in this kind of writing, this may be a bit of a challenge for me. Either way, this is going to be interesting.
Tom,
ReplyDeleteReally nice post. I like how you end with "Either way, this is going to be interesting." That kind of attitude will serve you well in this particular course design. The sustainable energy focus is really admirable. Good luck with that. I am, I have to say, somewhat shocked that you haven't had an English class since your junior year in high school. Keep me updated on how the class is going. My teaching plan is somewhat focused on the assumption that you've all gained something from 151, but maybe I shouldn't assume this at all. Good luck and welcome to the course!
Centerville, eh? I know some Centerville folks. And nice major by the way. A good friend of mine is a mechanical engineer at the University of Toledo. I can dig your drive and motivation towards environmental sustainability. Very forward thinking.
ReplyDeleteAlso: being a "lab tech" sounds intensely cool. I imagine lab coats and machinery, and maybe goggles. I also see beakers and test-tubes filled with colorful liquid (some bubbling, and some not). I realize that there probably are no test tubes and beakers, but that's just what I imagine.
Tom, that was a great post. I wonder if you feel the same as I when it comes to the length of time that has passed since you took a formal writing class? I have a friend who is an Engineering major and I have to say I respect you guys for putting yourselves through the tough coursework. I wish you luck in the course and in your endeavors!
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