ASSIGNMENT: "Why Am I in College?" Reflection

Critical note: You will be asked to revisit this paper at the end of this quarter and expand it using the knowledge and resources you have learned in this course. 

Purpose

The purposes of this assignment are for you to 1) learn how to properly upload documents to Canvas, 2) begin reflecting upon your educational and career goals, and 3) practice reflective writing that complies with the formatting requirements in our syllabus.

Please share what you are comfortable sharing. Please know this essay helps your instructor get to know you better in order to support your goals.

Tasks

1. Type a reflection paper in Microsoft Word that responds to the three prompts below using the How to Format an Essay.docx Download How to Format an Essay.docx
     
2. Learn what a reflective essay is by watching this 4 minute video Links to an external site.

[Insert Video]

Reflection Paper Prompts

1. Why are you here?

• Explain your thought process for attending Clover Park and include everything/everyone that motivated you to enroll as a student.
• Be specific and explain your reasons with examples and details.
• It can help to answer “why?” to each of your initial answers, in order to dig deeper and uncover the many reasons you chose to attend college.

2. What are your goals after you attend Clover Park?

• Identify your future goals and next steps after attending Clover Park (i.e. transfer, join the workforce, join the military, etc.)
• Explain why these goals and next steps are important to you. Explain your thoughts, feelings, and any questions you may have about your goals
• Be specific and explain your reasons with examples and details.
• It can help to answer “why?” to each of your initial answers, in order to dig deeper and uncover the reasons for your future goals and next steps.

3. How will you positively impact your family, communities, and the world around you?

• Identify ways in which working towards and achieving your goals will benefit your loved ones, your communities, and the world around you.
• Explain why having a positive impact on these groups is important to you. Provide specific reasons and examples.
  
  • It can help to answer “why?” to each of your initial answers, in order to dig deeper and uncover the reasons for your future goals and next steps.

Tips for Success

• View these samples of excellent assignments from past students:
  • Why Am I Here sample1.pdf Download Why Am I Here sample1.pdf
  • Why Am I Here sample2.pdf Download Why Am I Here sample2.pdf
       
• You can get assistance with your writing! Use the Writing Center Links to an external site., which offers online drop-in and scheduled appointments.
• Type your reflection paper using Microsoft Word according to the formatting requirements outlined in the How to Format an Essay.docx Download How to Format an Essay.docx
    
• Check your work against the rubric and make improvements or additions as necessary
• To submit: Click the Submit Assignment link (top right) to open the assignment submission window. On the *File Upload* tab, click *Choose File* to select the proper document from your computer. Click Submit Assignment.

Learning Outcomes:

• Students will continually assess individual strengths, skills characteristics and interests in order to pursue personal, academic, and career goals.
• Students will engage with peers, instructors, and the college community in order to build culturally diverse relationships that foster personal, academic and career success.
  • Employ context- and audience-appropriate language in oral and written communications with an instructor.
  • Identify expectations for successful performance in a collaborative learning or teamwork situation.