Writ-340: The Takeaway

Alondra Santos
Writing 340
Published in
4 min readMay 10, 2024

Throughout this writing class, I have experienced a significant transformation in my skills and approach as a writer. The journey has been enlightening and I am very proud of the progress I have made this semester. I have learned valuable techniques, gained new perspectives, and expanded my creativity, which have all contributed to my growth as a writer. It definitely provided me with a comprehensive understanding of various writing styles and techniques. I appreciate Professors Dissinger’s approach to writing as he allowed us time create our own writing “structure” to follow. Through engaging lectures and insightful discussions, he helped me develop a deeper appreciation for the art of writing. The exposure to a new writing style in our assignments has challenged me to think critically, express myself effectively, and explore different perspectives, ultimately broadening my writing capabilities.

The guidance and mentorship provided by my professor has been instrumental in my writing journey. The professor’s approach to the writing projects has been both inspiring and encouraging. By allowing us to write about topics we actually care about, it helped keep the class engaging and fun! In complete honesty, I was dreading another writing class. I’ve always found it difficult to find each Professor’s writing style and stick to it in order to get a good grade. It made me think that there was only one right to writing. However, by giving us more freedom with our writing projects, it not only enhanced my writing skills but also fostered a sense of creativity and originality. On top of that, the professor’s insightful feedback helped me identify areas for improvement and provided me with the necessary tools to refine my writing. Furthermore, I appreciate the professor’s emphasis on individual growth and self-expression, which has made the class experience more enjoyable overall. The freedom to explore my unique writing style and topics while receiving constructive criticism has been invaluable. In addition, his support and open-mindedness created a nurturing environment where I felt comfortable taking creative risks and pushing the boundaries of my writing abilities.

Additionally, exploring my singing background as a Mexican American mariachi singer and opera singer definitely helped enrich my writing projects, infusing them with cultural depth and a unique perspective. My journey as a mariachi singer has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the rich heritage and traditions of Mexican music. This immersion in the mariachi tradition has allowed me to infuse my writing with authentic cultural nuances, capturing the essence of Mexican music and its profound impact on the community. Whether crafting essays or stories, my mariachi background has provided tons of inspiration, infusing my writing with the organic essence of Mexican music.

Moreover, my experience as an opera singer has honed my understanding of the power of storytelling through music. Opera, with its grand narratives, passionate arias, and characterizations, has taught me the art of conveying profound emotions and themes through performance. Translating this understanding into my writing projects, I’ve (hopefully) been able to infuse my work with the same emotional depth and narrative complexity found in opera. This background has permeated my writing with a heightened sense of drama and emotional resonance.

That being said, the fusion of my mariachi and opera experiences has allowed me to embrace a diverse range of artistic expressions and perspectives, enriching my writing with a multi-faceted approach. By drawing on the storytelling traditions of both mariachi and opera, I’ve been able to interweave cultural narratives, personal experiences, and universal themes into my writing, creating writing works full of diverse voices and perspectives. Delving into my singing background as a Mexican American mariachi and opera singer has provided me with a unique lens through which to approach storytelling. The fusion of my musical experiences with my writing projects has allowed me to create work that is deeply rooted in tradition, yet resonant with universal ideas, forging a literary path that is both personal and inclusive.

As a result of this writing class, I have gained a newfound confidence in my writing and storytelling abilities. I have learned to embrace the creative process, overcome challenges, and persist in refining my work. The class has not only equipped me with the technical skills required for effective writing but has also instilled a sense of discipline and dedication towards my craft. Reflecting on my journey in this writing class, I am grateful by the extent of my growth as a writer. I have learned to appreciate the power of words, the impact of storytelling, and the significance of effective communication. The class has inspired a deep sense of responsibility as a writer, compelling me to strive for excellence and authenticity in every piece of work I produce, not just in writing.

In conclusion, my experience in this class has been transformative. I am grateful for the knowledge, skills, and inspiration that I have gained throughout the course. Professor Dissinger’s approach to the writing projects has undoubtedly contributed to my growth and has made the class experience immensely rewarding. I am eager to carry forward the lessons learned and continue evolving as a writer, embracing the creative journey with renewed enthusiasm and determination.

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