Course Review

What did you learn in this class that was unexpected, especially interesting, or inspiring?

     Even though my spirituality is nature based and I am passionate about wilderness, I have difficulty bringing that personal aspect into the public arena. My writing has become very analytical over time, which isn't a negative as my degree is in professional writing, but it is a struggle to add that personal touch. It makes me feel vulnerable, and I dislike being vulnerable in public.

Which topics/readings did you enjoy most about the class? Which did you find the most challenging?
     I enjoyed the indigenous stories, however, I enjoyed The New Wilderness the most. The most challenging was reading about preservation versus conservation due to the emotional reaction I had contemplating how it relates to my life. I realized that in the past I believed preservation was the direction we needed to go. Now, as my mobility and medical conditions make my navigating the wilderness more challenging, I find that without the concepts conservation presents I may not be able to go into nature as I get older.

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How did you approach the different assignments? Which of these do you think represent your best work? Which ones did you find the most difficult?
     I approached the different assignments very analytically with lots of research and organization. I believe my best work has been putting together this website. It allows me to add little easter eggs to go along with my writing, little surprises. I found that the most difficult was keeping up with the readings. Audible and other programs that read materials to me was helpful in keeping up with the readings in this class and my others (I'm taking three English courses this semester which is insane and do not suggest it).

 

What skills, knowledge, or experience did you develop and how might you use these in a professional setting or your intended career? 

     Realizing that I need to add my own voice and passion to my writing, that being vulnerable and adding myself to what I do is not a negative, and that I need to re-embrace my love of reading fiction has been challenging to accept. Going into public administration and grant writing I need to be able to be someone people can relate to and connect

 

with. These realizations will help nudge me in that direction.

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What would you recommend most about this class and what do you think could be improved?

     I would recommend that, if you decide to take this course, do not come into it with narrow, firm expectations. Come into it with an open mind and a willingness to explore what is possible and opportunities that other classes will not provide. The only improvement I could suggest is that sometimes the hikes are not easy on those with mobility and accessibility issues. Having the options for alternative activities that accomplish the same intent is important.