Reflection

Reflection on English 214 

By 

Nicholas Brown

   This semester of English was a revolutionary experience in my life. Though the transition of the

semester, English 214 has contributed to the ideologies that I have begun to develop concerning life.

My professor, Caitlin Field, introduced me to the invisible narratives in everyday society, but more

importantly the power they posses. I overwhelmingly enjoyed participating in this class and gained

much from the conversations with my peers as well as my professor.

  In the beginning of the semester I anticipated this class to be a reflection of the Eng 114 class I took

during my first semester at SFSU. Although, I did gain much as a writer from the course, I do not

feel it challenged or expanded my mind, like my other classes do. After just a few classes, I realized

this would not be the same experience.  My favorite topic or assignment that we focused on was

analyzing the different readings we had each week. Even if I did not participate in that specific

reading I could still guarantee that I could come into class and expect good conversation. This was

the best part of the class for me. The fact that I could come into an environment and openly share my

opinions, not having to worry about the outcomes, or anyone judging me. English 214, challenged

me to critically think about the built in perceptions we have about certain topics in the world.

   

  After reflecting on my diagnostic essay, I can see the invisible narratives I have accepted without

even knowing. Although, my beliefs might not have changed as much, I can understand the other

point of views. Some of my ideologies, such as my perspective on women in America, media

perception, and power within the US, have changed.  I now realized the way I thought about things

was not necessarily wrong, I just did not  have enough knowledge to come up with the conclusions I

did. Moreover, I know now to lesson the power of these invisible narratives, I need to educate more
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people like I have been. I do this by engaging in conversation and informing others of what I have

learned.

   I am glad Caitlin Field was my English 214 professor. Although, I do not know the specific 

academic guidelines for the course, I do know Caitlin challenged me each class to think from a 

different perspective. Also to analyze the power I have, and understand how it can affect people 

around me. The class also instilled more confidence in myself to speak out against the disparities 

within society, and how invisible narratives can potentially harm us individually. The teaching style 

in my 214 course, was majority of the reason I enjoyed class. Having open dialogue with my 

classmates allowed me to take in a different perspective on the topics introduced. Along with this 

each assignment given to us effectively pushed us to think deeper about English. 

I want to thank you personally Caitlin for the time and effort you put in the class. I have gained 

much as a writer and I have a better comprehension of how to analyze writing. Most importantly 

English 214 has made me a better person.