WRITING IN PROFESSIONS

English 1030

Over a year ago, I applied for the Education Coordinator position at a non-profit organization. The job consisted of content writing and editing for digital and print platforms intended to educate individuals and communities about the resources available at the organization. It felt like a shot in the dark; I didn’t have formal training in writing or editing. I had a bachelor’s degree in biology and secondary education certification, and although I had been volunteering in the non-profit sector for several years, I had not been employed for over a decade. Still, I submitted my resume and got an interview. I completed a writing and editing assessment as part of the application process, and to my surprise, I became I finalist. I didn’t get the job, but the experience gave me the confidence to pursue writing professionally. With that goal in mind, I enrolled at SLCC to complete the Writing Certificate. 

Writing in Professions shifted my perspective dramatically. When I came to this class, I had a narrow view of professional writing. Listening to the diverse guest speakers helped me recognize the versatility of writing in many different work spaces. I appreciated their experiences and writing advice regarding their fields. With a broadened view, I realized how my skills uniquely intersected and how writing could be a vehicle to showcase those skills. One message remained consistent with all the speakers: failure is inevitable, so learn how to fail without giving up. I am learning to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Writing and revising are not easy, but I understand more deeply it is part of the process. 

Lastly, this course has helped me develop my writer’s mind. Through the assignments, I learned how language impacts outcomes. Whether interviewing for a job or creating content for an organization, writing matters. Great professional documents consider audience, word choice, style, genre, and many other elements to ensure effectiveness and accessibility. Powerful writing is a combination of impeccable design and thoughtful language. Understanding the importance of rhetorical reflection has helped me improve my professional writing.