Boot Camp

"What was the most important thing you learned in Boot Camp? Explain why."

I think that the most important thing I learned from Boot Camp was to make sure to validate the "Naysayers" argument/point of view in my writing. While this is something I always try to do in my essays, I know often times I fall short. I get caught up in what I am trying to say and think that alone will convince the reader. Addressing the opposition to my point of view will make my papers stronger because it will show that my knowledge is not one-sided, and I that have considered both arguments. Additionally, I have also relearned the importance of supporting quotes with your own interpretations. Often times I like to leave quotes "hanging" because I feel that they are self-explanatory. Going though Boot camp made me remember to look for both of these issues in my papers and revise them where necessary. This is important because it will make my writing stronger, well rounded and less biased.

About Me (Blog #1)

My name is Melissa. I am from Mount Vernon, or as many people know it as "tulip town". Aside from academics, which now consume a majority of my time, I like to swim. I swam for my high school's varsity team for four years, and placed in districts during the last two seasons. I also enjoy reading novels and playing the violin. Some of my favorite novels include "A Seperate Peace", "the five people you meet in heaven", and "Sometimes a Great Notion". My music taste is a bit varied... but I mostly like grunge and alternative. Alice in Chains and Foo Fighters probably rank amongst my favorite bands. I am attending WSU to major in Civil Engineering. I know this will be a difficult major but I've never been one to be scared of a challenge.