WFP Series Vol. 6: New Approaches to Freshman Composition

Students enrolled in Writing for Publication (Fall 2018) wrote and submitted blog stories related to the department. The fruits of those efforts will be published on our department blog every day during finals week.  The following story was written by Allisa Smith.

Why LLP is for Me: I suspect and affirm that Language, Literature and Philosophy will be dominant factors in  my success as a Political Science and Mass Communications major.  Language is everything to a professional. The correct articulation and diction could be the entrance way to network with top executives and CEO’s. Words are influential, and every word you utter leaves an impact on the person listening.  As a forthcoming Attorney, Author and Journalist, I will take the lessons learned from LLP with me in evaluating precedents, drafting law review and publishing creative works. English studies will be the foundation of my skill.

Allisa Smith

The significance of Freshmen Composition

     On the day I observed Professor Marsha Williams’ classroom it was filled with students from the beginning to the very last row -- each with a will to learn.
     The lecture was rather interesting. Students were reading and analyzing poetry. However, I soon realized there was a disconnect between students and composition.
Robin Dickey, a Junior enrolled in Freshmen Comp 10101, explains why writing makes her feel uncomfortable.
     “Writing is like my kryptonite,” she says. “It’s like I have so much to say, but as soon as sit in front of a computer screen or began let my thoughts flow, I freeze up and my mind goes blank. If writing was as easy as a talking, I would become an award winning author overnight.”
     Of the obstacles facing her during the writing process, Dickey said her biggest concern in page count.

Prof. Marsha Williams and her Freshman Composition
students organize a Green Kabaret. Through it,
students research, write essays, and respond
creatively to environmental issues.

     “It’s very intimidating to hear that you must compose a five paper in which you have to argue a point or explain multiple points in great detail.” Dickey said.
     “Page counts really put a mental strain on students. We go from explaining our opinions on given course topics to saying any and every thing to fill up the pages. We use our best efforts to avoid plagiarism so relying on our own words can be a frustrating and has a negative effect on the writing process.”
    Dickey contends that if professors could give students examples of how to write a successful paper and/or a piece of literature for their class it would relive a lot pressure and produce better outcomes per assignment.
     In addition to writing samples, Williams has a host of creative tools to help her students develop their writing skills. As part of her teaching style, she combines creative writing with traditional composition development.  This helps students better appreciate the creative aspect of the writing process.
     “Teaching Freshman Composition is certainly a challenge” Williams said. Her goal is to help students step out of their comfort zone to try a new skill. “I love connecting with students who are sincere about the writing process.”

Allisa Smith, 21, is a model, journalist, poet, writer and future attorney  from Atlanta GA. She often writes about politics, black businesses, and HBCU news.  She is also heavily active at Tennessee State University where she studies Political Science and Mass Communications, and is a part of the executive boards of multiple campus Organizations. Smith takes great joy in serving as the Commissioner of Healthcare for the Tennessee Intercollegiate Legislature, drafting bills that tackle political issues in Tennessee. Smith simply defines herself as a small town girl who dreams of taking over the world.