WP4:
This semester has been a journey. As a Public Relations major, I have been taught that writing is meant to be done a certain way. It should be clear, consice and persuasive. Every word should be chosen with strategy in mind.
This Writ class has made me a better PR writer by pushing me outside these lines. In this class, I was put up to a different kind of writing. The rubric is completely different for something like this compared to public relations writing. This class has made me realize how valuable the collaborative relationship between writing and multimodality in writing can be.
This is such an innovative approach that I have also begun applying to my PR writing. By intertwining writing with multimodality, the course has not just imparted knowledge but has fundamentally transformed how I perceive and interact with text and media. This methodology has opened new avenues for expressing thoughts and ideas in ways that resonate more deeply with personal and communal aspects of our lives. I have carried this over to Public Relations writing and have begun considering more deeply how to engage with the reader and offer them interesting and interactive content instead of just trying to push an idea on them. This course and your feedback has taught me that writing is a 2-way street — an interaction with the reader — rather than a one-sided rant. To make writing effective, there must be a purpose and a reader has to care, otherwise it is moot.
One of the most critical aspects of this semester’s work has been the integration of multimodality in our studies. By employing various modes of communication — textual, visual, and oral — I’ve been able to engage more deeply with the material and express complex ideas more effectively. This approach has been particularly useful in my exploration of Mexican-American identity, where the interplay of images, texts, and spoken narratives has enriched my appreciation of this community’s rich cultural tapestry. The use of multimodality helped me to present historical data, personal stories, and theoretical discussions in a more engaging and accessible manner, thus enhancing the overall impact of my academic work.
Through the course’s focus on languaging and identity, I have gained a nuanced understanding of how language shapes our perception of ourselves and others. This insight was pivotal in my examination of the discrimination and resilience within the Mexican-American community. By analyzing language use in historical texts and contemporary media, I observed how derogatory language has perpetuated stereotypes and reinforced systemic discrimination against Mexican-Americans. Conversely, I also explored how positive language and self-representation have been tools for resistance and identity affirmation. This duality showcased the power of languaging in shaping social realities and personal identities.
Comparative analysis has been another cornerstone of my learning process this semester. By comparing the identity narratives of Mexican-Americans with those of other marginalized communities, such as the blind and rural Americans, I have been able to see common threads of resilience and adaptation. This comparative approach not only broadened my perspective but also highlighted the universal aspects of human identity amidst adversity. It emphasized the importance of context and history in shaping individual and collective identities, providing a deeper understanding of the forces that mold our societal fabric.
My personal growth over the semester has been tremendous. Delving into the complex histories and personal stories of marginalized groups has not only informed my intellectual pursuits but also deeply affected my personal worldview. Engaging with these narratives has fostered a greater empathy within me and a commitment to social justice. It has challenged me to reflect on my own identity and privileges and encouraged me to think critically about how I can contribute to a more equitable society.
The development of my scholastic voice has been integral to my academic achievements this semester. Through continuous writing and discussion, I have found a voice that is distinctly mine — one that confidently articulates complex ideas and advocates for the underrepresented. This voice has been shaped by the rigorous academic environment, the challenging yet supportive feedback from peers and professors, and my own commitment to personal and academic excellence.
Self-reflection has played a pivotal role in my academic journey. It has allowed me to assess my growth, recognize my strengths and weaknesses, and refine my academic and personal goals. This reflective practice has been especially enlightening in understanding the emotional and intellectual impact of my studies. It has helped me to appreciate the transformative power of education and the importance of staying open to continuous learning and self-improvement.
What’s more, the in-person class sessions have been equally as fruitful. The conversations we’ve engaged in have indeed stretched beyond traditional boundaries, exploring the depths of ‘languaging,’ identity, and the nuances involved in creating, knowledge seeking, and self-reflecting on our intellectual identities. Each class felt like a step further into understanding not just the subject matter at hand but also ourselves and our places in the academic community. This is not a discussion or thought process that I engage in in any other class, so it was very interesting to have a part of my week that was dedicated to this thought practice.
Discussing ‘languaging’ and identity has been particularly transformative. ‘Languaging,’ a term that initially seemed esoteric, has throughout this class, our readings and responses, unfolded into a concept that encapsulates the dynamic process of using language to construct and express our identities. This exploration made it apparent that language is not merely a tool for communication but a foundational element that shapes our thinking, learning, and interaction with the world. It highlighted how personalized language becomes a medium through which we project our intellectual identity.
Looking forward, the knowledge and skills I have acquired this semester will undoubtedly influence my future academic and professional endeavors. The understanding of identity dynamics will enhance my ability to engage with diverse communities and issues in a sensitive and informed manner. The skills in multimodal communication will be invaluable in whatever career path I choose, enabling me to present ideas compellingly and creatively.
In conclusion, this semester has been a transformative period of creating, discussing, and teaching. It has not only equipped me with valuable academic skills but also fostered a deep sense of social responsibility and personal growth. As I move forward, I am committed to applying these insights and skills to advocate for those who are misunderstood or marginalized, aiming to contribute positively to our society. My scholastic journey this semester has indeed been a profound exploration of identity, language, and the power of education to foster understanding and change as a PR professional.
