my writing :)

I honestly feel like I have not improved my writing since the beginning. I have gained some confidence in writing, but I still am not able to start a paper. I do hope that I am able to do this by the end of the semester. I have been able to stay focus throughout the paper, but I still don't get the concept, or point of the assingment to follow through in the paper. I think peer review has somewhat helped, but not very effectively for me. Discussing the readings in class does help me a lot, because it lets me see other people's perspectives; which lets me see points that I didn't see on my own. It also helps me understand the readings better. I think if more than one person reviews a paper it is more effective because that way you get more feedback. I think my writing process has improved, because before I used write in scattered pieces and now I am able to focus on a part of the essay, rather than being all over the place. Overall, my writing has not improved that much, but I do feel a little more confident and I will gradually improve through time. I am no where near perfection but with will power and interest I can write great papers.

joining the conversation...

A point that I find important is whether a B.A is or isn't worth it. The three articles we read all agreed that it was worth it; even if some had if's or buts. Not everyone should pursue a B.A, everyone has different beliefs and desires. Some people are pursuing this degree in order to earn more money--this is the biggest reason why not to pursue it. Those who are not interested or do not have the academic ability are just going to college in order to make money. However, are they benefiting themselves by having the wrong "motivation?" Those that decide to get a B.A., have the right reasons, and have the academic ability make it a goal to go to the college of their dreams...leaving them with debt that could either be another payment, or a whole new lifestyle. Tuituion cost are going up every year, not everyone can afford to go to college; some that are capable of going aren't because of money problems--it's not fair.

to pursue or to settle?

Deciding whether to get a bachelor's degree or not is a tough decision for many. A huge factor that contributes to making that decision is the cost of the degree. College tuition is increasing and not many can afford to pay for it. Some students get financial aid, some get loans, some get help from their parents and others have to work two. Those that get loans are left with either a huge or minor debt after they graduate. Because of their student loan-debt, they have to live differently than they had first planned to.  For those who work in order to pay their tuition, like me, are constantly asking themselves if these four years are worth it. I have to work two jobs in order to actually go to school; for me working two jobs and  going to school is very difficult, and stressful. Getting a bachelor's degree was not my plan after high school, but my parents, teachers and counselors all pressured me into applying and into wanting to get a higher education. I knew that a bachelor's degree meant a career with a higher annual salary, but the idea of having more money didn't appeal to me like it did to my peers. Another factor that contributes is the idea of being in school another four years. I do not see a point in being in school another four years for a bachelor's degree, when the first two years are basically what you learned in high school. Why should college students pay for a repeat of high school knowledge? It makes no sense how the last two years are what count towards your degree. A bachelor's degree in my opinion is not worth it. People stress how you can make more money, but not everybody desires more money. A higher education gets a good job but I love my jobs at the moment. I don't want a job that pays more and doesn't make me happy.

beliefs...

 A person should wait until they get married to have sex. Being pure brings the two people to a level of connection that is inseperateable. It connects the two people spiritually, mentally and physically. Losing your virginity to your husband or wife increases the chances of staying together, because they were your first; therefore, you don't know how to let go. The emotional bond that is created when both parties have sex creates a greater happiness and communication skills.
Waiting until marriage to have sex is overrated. Everyone is having sex, so why not just do it. Sex feels great and the pleausre is ah-mazing. Not saving yourself for marriage gives you experience, and that helps you please your partner better when you are married. Having sex before marriage releases stress and increases the person's lifespan; so, your husband or wife can live longer and both of you can have more sex. :)