For some odd reason, every year I always find a way to underestimate the amount of sadness I will endure once school is finally out. Maybe it's just the way my brain has decided to cope with the dramatic transition from school to summer. What ever the reason maybe, this year I am more affected than ever before. I can already feel the emptiness within that part of me that is so accustomed to attending school Monday through Friday. I've grown to have more confidence in myself and the things that I could accomplish. Honestly I truly believe that I have gained a great part of who I will be just from absorbing the many life lessons that Mr. Thomas has given. I've also grown to take responsibility for a number of thing by first realizing that excuses can sometimes distract and limit your capabilities. Although studying is like breathing for me, I can say that my studying habits have become more efficient throughout this school year. This course did more than just prepare me for school, it molded me into wiser young adult, broadened the range of my perspective, and introduced me to a plethora of unique individuals who share similar ambitions as myself.
1. Which essay did you feel was the most difficult to write? Why?
I feel that the Synthesis essay was the most difficult to write based on time consumption, developing a stance, and the process of reading the sources. For starters, I would usually go over the amount of time I would set for myself. Reading and determining the stance of each source is a lengthy process, as well as pick and analyzing the appropriate sources to help support my stance. No matter what I would always analyze the sources more than necessary, consuming more of my total time.
2. Which essay did you find the easiest? What made it easy?
I found the Argumentation essay this easiest, because it was more versatile and I comprehended the structure very well. It was also the essay that provided the most room for creativity.
3. What novel/book did you enjoy the most? Why?
I enjoyed The Things They Carried the most, because it gave me an insight of the Vietnam War that I couldn't have obtained from any other source. It exposed the tragic stories of those who witnessed, experienced, and endured the harsh consequences of war during that time.
4. What novel/book did you enjoy the least?
Not that I didn't enjoy reading The Crucible I just enjoyed reading In Cold Blood more.
5. Anything you would like for me to know?
I think you should know that describing my experiences in your class with words doesn't do enough justice. This is a school year that can't and will never be repeat in history. It is rare that a student will experience a teacher as talented as yourself. I say talented, because it requires skills, practice, ambition, and effort to be as accomplished as a teacher as you are in your classes. You are ultimately the ideal example of what the art of teaching is all about.
