Journal Entry Lesson 13

Consulting with Someone

Over the semester, I have visited the Writing Center on UAF’s campus many times. I have had many different people check over my writing assignments. I have seen a change in my attitude, knowledge, and an improvement in my ability to write.

At first I was really afraid of having someone critique my paper. I felt self-conscious and worried that I would be told that I was a poor writer. As I have continued to visit the Writing Center, I found that everyone working there was interested in my success. I was never made to feel that I was a poor writer. After the first visit, I was no longer apprehensive and found that as my attitude changed, the experience became pleasant and very enjoyable.

Each person I have worked with has been very helpful, some have been more meticulous than others. My papers were checked for errors and each time I was told different things to correct. I have been given ideas for revisions, and explained some rules of grammar. I have always had problems figuring out when to put a comma when using the word “and” in a sentence. One of the people working at the Writing Center explained to me that if I combined together two complete sentences, I would use a “comma box,” or the word “and” with a comma after it. Another thing I learned was when to use apostrophe “s” or “s” apostrophe; the first one being used showing ownership by a single person, and the second one being used to show plural or many persons ownership. I know these are simple English rules, but I was grateful for the mini lessons. It reminded me of what I had learned in high school and gave me knowledge to improve upon.

I have been encouraged especially when I have made a repeat visit and had the same person review my paper. Then comments were made pointing out the improvements I have made from previous papers. Just this last week the person that reviewed my rough draft for my research paper said that when I finish I should publish my paper. I was shocked! I had never considered that I would publish anything. It was quite a compliment and made me feel great. This has encouraged me and helped me to see that I am improving my writing.

I have found it has been very helpful to discuss my paper with someone at the Writing Center. They are friendly people willing to help me succeed. I am grateful that the university offers a Writing Center. I have received help at all stages of writing an essay from writing an outline and figuring out a thesis statement, to the works cited page. Visiting the Writing Center has changed my attitude about having someone check over my paper and helped me to understand the process of writing as well as improved my proficiency in writing.