Final Thoughts on the Writing Process

Just a few weeks passed, and another term has come to an end. Amazing how time flies... I enjoyed this class and all of the responses to the discussion board. It was definitely a learning experience.

If I were to offer advice to someone writing their first scientific paper, it would be to follow the examples given in this course in order to strengthen the punch that an essay can have. I think the important things that I have taken away from the class experience include outlining, using the post-draft outline, as well as editing and revising. It is my hope that the paper that I turned in was readable and interesting.

Areas for improvement in my writing style can be overcome by using the techniques used in the class. I feel like the dry and ho-hum style which I think defines my writing needs work. Substituting action verbs into the paper (or anything else I write) will help to make topics more persuasive. Overall, the class was a good experience, and I enjoyed interacting with my fellow classmates as we pursue our chosen endeavors for the workplace.

Education is the key to success in most areas of life, in my opinion, and hopefully we all can utilize the knowledge gleaned from the college experience to improve and excel. Best wishes to all of you!

Good Feelings about Finishing the Paper

After completing the final paper, I definitely feel a sense of accomplishment. I know that more papers are in store for my upcoming classes; however, I do not dread the task after using the techniques learned in this course. I have found that I like the post-draft outline the best for finding mistakes or things in which to improve.

I have enjoyed the class, and feel good about the writing process in general. My idea of writing has not changed much, besides the knowledge that a solid paper takes a lot of intensive research. Although I performed poorly in my previous college experience, I know that I have the ability to learn from mistakes and to move forward with persistence. The old saying that "you get what you give" applies to the college setting, because effort pays off in the long run.

Another topic which I would like to research is the original subject which I had hoped to write about. The advancing technique of iPS cell research holds promise as a substitute for using embryonic stem cells. This is a topic which I will try to learn more about and to keep up with the current information about it.

I appreciate the writing process more as a result of this course.

Thoughts on Blogging after the Course

Blogging is a bit fun, but I don't think I will continue to share my thoughts and feelings following the course. I do not feel it is a necessary way to vent or to express my opinions... that is what I have family and friends for.

Starting up the blog was challenging, especially trying to figure out how to respond to fellow classmates. It has been enjoyable to read what others are experiencing. Also, it amazes me to see the different styles of writing that each of us have.

Comments to my blog have been minimal, but I don't feel cheated in the slightest, because the feedback which I have received in the discussion posts have been very useful.

Those of you who like the boxes which I have made can inquire on my class e-mail. I would be happy to send a few to my new-found friends, so feel free to place an order. I promise not to charge too much for them. Happy New Year to one and all, and let's finish out this course with a strong scientific paper!

The Advantages of Peer Review

The ability to receive feedback from classmates for the first draft is very useful. It is fortunate that we, as students, are able to use peer review to get insight into possible improvement. I do not recall using peer review in any of my previous schoolwork, so this is a new thing to me.

During research, my "Ah-Ha" moment was when I realized the proper way to narrow down the search capability of the Academic Search Premiere database. It was a relief when I was able to get better articles for my draft by entering the proper terms in the search boxes.

I can appreciate all of the effort that went into these papers, because I worked hard at doing a good job, and after reading a few of my classmates' drafts, I can see that they worked just as hard to create solid papers with good citations.

We are all in the same boat with this writing process, so here's to a good new year... let's all finish strong!