Writer’s Statement

Throughout this course, I’ve aimed to express my voice through personal reflections, cultural analysis, and critical opinion. Whether writing about a Kendrick Lamar concert, reviewing a local Chinese restaurant, or analyzing a sports film like Challengers, I’ve tried to connect my real-life experiences with broader cultural and media trends. My goal as a writer is to be honest, observational, and relatable—whether I’m discussing music, food, or how sports betting affects fandom.

In my opinion essay, Fans or Stat Addicts?, I wanted to explore how the joy of watching sports has shifted in the age of legal gambling. I used a conversational yet critical tone to connect with readers who may feel the same change in how we watch games. I also aimed to balance critique with fairness by acknowledging the excitement sports betting brings while arguing for a healthier balance.

Across all of my essays, I worked on developing a clear structure, refining my grammar, and keeping my tone consistent. I also used feedback from tutoring sessions to improve clarity, tighten my arguments, and make sure my voice stayed present throughout.

What I’m most proud of is how each piece reflects something real—my reactions, my interests, and my way of thinking about the world. These essays are more than assignments to me; they’re personal snapshots of how I engage with culture.

As I continue writing, I want to keep growing my ability to write with purpose and to connect with readers beyond the classroom.