Course Evaluation: Those Who Can, Teach

Paul came highly recommended by a trusted friend, and I can see why. The biggest and most important lesson I have learned this semester in English 111, is to think for yourself, and question everything. I learned to ask "Why?" and "Where did those facts come from?". This may seem like an odd lesson to learn in an English class. It seems like prior to taking this class, I blindly swallowed ideas without ever once questioning it. This is not something I am proud to admit. I had begun to think for myself a little bit, but Paul sort-of sealed the deal. I learned to investigate, and report my findings in an academically articulate manner, and I had fun doing so! During my research, I even found myself fantasizing about being paid just to research, and write about my findings.

Do not, I repeat: do NOT take Paul's class if you don't have time to dedicate to the course. Paul requires a significant amount of out-of-class work, I think this is largely due to only having an hour and fifteen minutes of in-class time. There is a fair amount of time spent researching, reflecting, examining, writing, editing, and reviewing, and he does require that you use your brain.

However, I may be a slight perfectionist, and so I spent literally countless hours of work for his class. I probably spent a little too much time on my projects, if that is possible, because I refuse to hand in imperfect work. I also must add that I happen to love English as a whole, and have spent the greater portion of my life indulging in pastimes like reading and writing. Nineteen-plus journals and growing, along with a sizable collection of books were and are my sanctuary.

One of the things I found most difficult was conforming to the restraints of college-level writing. In my youth, I just knew I would have a problem with this later in life; I always preferred my journals and poetry. When faced with being forced to look inside myself, analyze what I found and write about it, I found this task surprisingly difficult. I was shocked since I have been someone who obviously loves to write about myself. Not being able to use vague words like "they" and adjectives like "really" or "great" forced me (through much mumbled cursing) to find more descriptive, concise words. Another little thing I realized is how much the word "that" is overused. Most of the time, a person could simply omit the word, without it affecting the context.

My only recommendation is to be a little better organized and prepared next semester. It seemed like he was scatter-brained and over-worked (and definitely underpaid). I suspect perhaps Paul had some "extra-curricular" issues going on, and maybe this is a reason for his disorganization. My friend even said that he wasn't like that last semester.

I was impressed with the amount and fantastic quality of information, and entertainment, posted on BlackBoard. I enjoyed browsing through the links and videos in what very little free time I have had this semester.

I intend to continue blogging, most likely using this blog, for both academic and personal subjects. I like the idea of having somewhere that showcases my writing for others to read and (hopefully) review. All constructive criticism is always welcome, and I feel the same way Paul does about it- "When criticism is constructive, it tell you about the writer. When it is destructive, it tells you about the critic." (forgive me, I'm paraphrasing)

In conclusion, Paul Gasparo was recommended to me, and I will happily recommend him to others. Paul really cares about what he does, it's obvious to me, and that makes all the difference.
image source found: here