Mid-Term Check In

10 March 2013

Dear Laura Cline,

            We have reached the halfway point of the semester and I would like to share some thoughts about the semester thus far and of things to come in the next half.  In thinking about the challenges so far, I would say the whole on-line experience has been a challenge for me.  This class is my first experience with an on-line course. My challenges are probably pretty typical to others first time on-line experience.  It is new type of discipline that I am discovering to keep up with the assignments given.  There is probably plenty of time given for the assignments, but because I am not having to physically go into a classroom I am challenged to create my own schedule. This can be very beneficial, but can also be a little dangerous.  I think my biggest success ties in with the challenge that I mentioned.  As much as I am challenged to create my own pace and keep up with the assignments, I have been able to do every assignment thus far.  So all in all my greatest challenge and biggest success are one in the same or related.

            The readings in class have been a pretty positive experience so far.  I have been challenged at times by the readings, but mostly because I don’t think I am the best reader.  Surprisingly though after reading “Bartleby” and “A Modest Proposal” a few times and making notes, I ultimately enjoyed writing essays about them.  At first, I was definitely frustrated and challenged by the readings, but once I was able to get some flow going, they became somewhat rewarding in tackling them. 

            My goals for the second half of the semester is to continue doing all the assignments, but in a more timely manner.  I would like to get ahead of schedule and not worry about the Sunday night midnight deadline.  Also, I have noticed the few times I got my assignments in well ahead of time I received feedback on my blog and that was nice.  So I hope to improve by moving up my assignment schedule, so I can get my assignments turned in earlier than Sunday night.  Overall I look forward to the second half of the semester and I think one more big essay.  I feel there might be light at the end of the tunnel.  Thank you for your help and support in making me a better writer.  I appreciate all your efforts and know that I have improved my English skills for my other classes already.  Thank you for all you have done and all you will do. 

Sincerely,

Vincent Gallegos