February Reflecting

   Although it is only February, time feels like it's flying. It might just be me, but hearing we are more than halfway through the semester and Spring break is in a couple weeks? That was hard to wrap my brain around, that's for sure. Definitely caught me off guard and made me both excited and surprised.

Earlier this week, we received our microtheme grades - our first project of CARD101. Luckily we have an opportunity for revision because let's just say it is much needed. Reflecting on my personal microtheme assignment, I  feel like the topic I chose was tough to talk about from a neutral standpoint and although I tried to sound unbiased, the content I shared was still somewhat one-sided. I think my writing did not reflect my thoughts and I went in circles trying to explain and expand on the possible outcomes that come with photo taking. I am planning to revise my microtheme and gain more knowledge on how to write a successful one, as well as apply to the comments Dr.Kyburz suggested.  

Switching gears and to be completely transparent, I was skeptical about these blog posts early on. I feel I can get stuck in writer's block so easily... even though there is much flexibility, I have trouble knowing what to focus on or write about. Without a certain prompt or set guideline, I find it tough to expand on my thoughts and I would see these blog posts as a chore. On the flip side, however, I am glad these posts and the free writes challenge my ability to be creative and simply write. I think weekly blogging is a unique way to remember what I focused on in the week and give myself space to reflect on my classes and card101 lessons. Without being too personal and similar to a little kid's diary entry, free writing without much restriction feels refreshing and I am starting to see the outside benefits that come with the previously "required" blogging. I am I enjoy reading other peers' blog posts as well, but I find it interesting I am still unable to comment. It can be frustrating because I have feedback to share or questions to ask, and I am confused about whose recent blog posts I have already read. 

Movies, Homework, Card101

POSSIBLE SPOILER ALERT! 

My chosen documentary film was Chasing Coral, by director Jeff Orlowski. 

1. In my chosen documentary, Chasing Coral, there were many specific scenes that got to me emotionally. One scene in specific that moved me was when the team traveled to the Great Barrier Reef. I thought their passion for coral reefs and ocean life was very admirable, and seeing their devastated, helpless, reactions at the dying corals made me feel sad and honestly somewhat guilty. Although it is obvious climate change is a real problem, I believe at times I forget how large of an issue it actually is. Also, to know that humans are contributing to the decline of this impeccable species... heartbreaking. 

2. I was surprised at the fact coral plays such a prominent role in the sea's ecosystem as well as the earth in general. I was somewhat aware of corals importance in the sea and other marine life, but I did not know that without corals, there is a possibility the rest of the sea could be wiped out. One of my good friends is also very passionate about coral reefs and he tells me fun facts once and a while. After watching this documentary and talking with him, I felt appalled to hear how much we need them and how quickly they are dying.

3. After the viewing, I wonder what will happen to fish and other lifeforms that depend on coral for their habitat and food source. I would assume they would be forced to adapt to new environments but I wonder if some species would not be able to and eventually go extinct. I also question if the marine biologists and engineers were able to reconfigure another underwater camera to use years later without having to physically time lapse. After the film, I felt feelings of worry and inspiration. A very odd dialect, but these feelings popped up as I was walking along the riverwalk with my friends and looking back at old pictures from the beach and on vacation. Although they were happy moments reflecting on memories, I felt sad remembering how our oceans' coral are being destroyed and there needs to be action taken before it is too late.

4. We might avoid including research in our summaries because sources we choose to utilize could possibly misalign with information included in the documentary. Even if they are revolving the same topic or story, there is a chance for error. Additionally, it could be confusing to backtrack (at least in the documentary I watched) because there are many scientific terms and descriptions. If I were to research, I would probably make the film more complicated to understand and add unnecessary details that either do not pertain or were never mentioned in the film to begin with.

Microtheme (very rough) Draft

 

    This is a copy of my microtheme rough draft, I have yet to revise and make it shorter in length, but if any of you have suggestions it would be much appreciated! As I reflected in class, here is what I believe I can work on as I was  my essay. 

• Rephrase to sound less argumentative.
• Emit needless words and phrases. I seemed to add a lot of "fluff" but need to get to the point. 
• In my introduction, I veered off topic and made in general when I should stay in specifics.
• Although I had a main idea, I asked mini questions that were unnecessary. 

Contracting in College Writing

 

    This week we dove in further to microthemes and were asked to choose a topic as well as complete a rough draft of our paper. Reflecting on my writing process, I had difficulty choosing a topic and being open ended with my words. As I said in my free write, I'd consider myself pretty opinionated and my papers are usually straightforward. Also, in my past writing experiences there was an emphasis in being argumentative and persuasive with your thesis rather than having a broad approach of something you are personally passionate about.  

Granted, there's still a lot of work that needs to be done for my microtheme. The more I come back to it, the more I make changes and can see little spaces I can revise, emit needless fluff, and catch absolute statements. I'm extremely guilty of overusing "constantly" "all" "never" etc. absolutes and I am glad this piece challenges that habit. As Dr.Kyburz mentioned in class as well, it is not a good standpoint to be in as a writer because it would be assuming information about others when that may not be true (or to an extent). 

     My micro theme topic is revolving the overuse of technology- specifically our phone cameras. On my rough draft, I spoke on how we are so used to taking videos and pictures rather than experiencing the present moment. That can be debated considering there can be a balance of capturing and living the moment, however, we have adapted to getting used to pulling out our phones when something interesting happens, seeing a cool landmark, at concerts, etc. That is not to say photography is "bad", but I question how much we revert to our phones and whether its because we want a memory, or if we've gotten sucked into the habit. 

Workshop Week

    

     Without a set prompt of what to write about in the blog for this week, I took time to reflect on my transition into this semester. Surprisingly the ease into the semester was better than I expected, and I am excited to start fresh! This past week of card 101, we had required workshops to attend. If I'm going to be honest, I did not know what to expect and initially thought these workshops would be a little tedious. However, looking back on it I think it was really nice how they were inclusive and got us to engage and learn about the concepts in a way that was enjoyable! 

 Other than the card workshops and attending my other classes, I found myself spending a lot of time in the library. It's the best study spot on campus in my opinion. I'm a little biased because I usually spend time on the library/goldsphon side of campus, but Oesterle is the place to be. Every time I walk in, I feel motivated to get my work done and be productive in some way shape or form. So, all in all I feel grateful for the library and having a space to focus on knowledge getting! Tried to connect chapter 1 a little there.. Being a commuter student especially, I like being able to study and complete work in other campus locations, instead of rushing home straightaway after my classes. 

The month is wrapping up but the semester's only starting which is an odd dialectic of nerves and excitement. I am looking forward to all the "new" this spring has to offer as much as it seems overwhelming in the moment. After reading the introduction chapters this week as well, I definitely think I need to be aware of how I learn and what changes if any I should make going into this new semester. 

Who Am I Talking To?

     

    This week in card 101, we focused on design layout for our blogs as well as making the appearance neat and concise for our audience. After reading and discussing the "Clean Up Your Mess" article, I've learned that the deign style does not need to be complicated or pretty to draw in a reader. Appearance should draw in the intended audience, but the content is what gets them to stay! It was mentioned that practicality and purpose are the number one key to design. So, in this blog as much as I'll try to be creative and unique to bring attention to this blog, I hope the content itself is what lasts and makes people interested to keep reading about my updates for the semester. 

What is a virtuous cycle? When Dr.Kyburz and Dr.Smith mentioned this term, I honestly assumed we were talking about ancient philosophy. My classes can feel like they're overlapping when terms like this exist... However, in writing this means to establish criteria for a good piece, evaluate, suggest improvements. On Friday, we practiced this skill by sharing our blogs with peers around us. We took time to look at each blog carefully and offer feedback and constructive criticism. 

 In my time at North Central so far, I have noticed community plays a large in defining the classroom and the college. In my classes, we have done a lot of mini group work to get to know each other and we are encouraged to collaborate when allowed. Being in college and as adults, students come in with their own unique major / collegiate goals, so it can be hard to meet new people. I am grateful that during the first few weeks of this semester I have had opportunities (to feel acclimated to the school as well as had time to introduce myself to new peers and professors.)

Welcome to the Blog!

 

Hi! My name is Josie Dichoso. 

The photo above is me snorkeling this Thanksgiving. I chose the photo because I love everything revolving aquatics. I also think the sea can symbolize openness and peace, so in terms of characteristics, I’d connect that to saying I think I'm a pretty open person. I have always enjoyed participating in aquatic activities recreationally, but I’d have to say my grandparents and my mom played a large role in growing my
spark and curiosity. 

My grandparents used to own a sailboat and participate in the Chicago to Mackinac Island race annually. (I thought they were the coolest, still do!) Being surrounded by the lake, their boat, and the crew growing up inspired me to join my neighborhood swim team and eventually find community within sports like they did. I started taking the sport more seriously over the years and ended up playing water polo in competitive clubs and school teams. 

 Besides that, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and babysitting. Having a good circle is something I find so important and I try to surround myself with loved ones as much as possible. I also like to go out with my friends on the weekends and explore different towns around Illinois. It’s exciting being spontaneous and going along with their ideas. The trips usually result in us going to a new coffee shop, pottery place, or thrift store. I was a nanny this past summer and it was definitely a fun but interesting experience. I think babysitting is a rewarding job and although I was in position to teach and guide them, they taught me a lot in return!

This week in CARD 101, I enjoyed diving into the "Portrait de Famille" this morning in class. Although I had so many ideas and questions about the art myself, I enjoyed hearing some peers' point of view as well. I think the activity was a great way to convey writing and art both have limitless possibilities- it is all up to the audience's interpretation and dialectics within the piece.