Writing & Communication Statement
Writing and communication have been a major focal point in my academic and personal development, serving as my foundation for expressing complex ideas and connecting with different people. Both works I will talk about showcase different forms of my writing and communication skills, from analytical research to creative storytelling. In "Intersecting Realities," written for B WRIT 135, I delved into the multifaceted impacts of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies on human interaction. Coming from a background in 3D modeling and virtual design, I was eager to explore not just the technical aspects of VR and AR, but also their social, emotional, and cognitive implications. The paper aimed to dissect how these emerging technologies influence human behavior, mental health, and societal norms. One of the key challenges I faced was communicating complex technological concepts to an audience that might not be familiar with VR and AR. To address this, I focused on crafting clear, accessible explanations without oversimplifying the content. For instance, when discussing the cognitive effects of VR immersion, I used analogies related to everyday experiences, such as how getting engrossed in a book or movie can temporarily alter one's perception of reality very is very similar. This approach helped bridge the gap between technical jargon and relatable concepts. I incorporated a range of qualitative and quantitative evidence to support my claims. I referenced studies on VR induced empathy in social situations and statistical data on the adoption rates of AR applications in education. By integrating these diverse forms of evidence, I aimed to build a well-rounded argument that can be resonated with both experts and casual readers alike. The research process also honed my ability to critically evaluate sources and synthesize information from interdisciplinary fields. "Intersecting Realities" also required me to be self reflexive about my position as both a creator and a critic of the current VR and AR technologies. I acknowledged my enthusiasm for these tools while hopefully critically examining their potential downsides, such as the risk of social isolation or the blurring of lines between virtual and physical realities. This balanced perspective was crucial in establishing credibility and making a well crafted discussion. In contrast, my screenplay "Little Things,", for CMS 370 A Sp 21: Basic Screenwriting, allowed me to explore emotional communication more so through visual storytelling. The narrative centers around a couple whose relationship is deteriorating, set against the backdrop of a snowy winter home. The screenplay employs powerful imagery and sharp contrasts to depict the family's struggle to hold onto the small joys that once unified them. Writing "Little Things" was an exercise in conveying deep emotional turmoil with minimal dialogue and relying heavily on visual cues. For example, I used recurring motifs like the melting snow and a slowly dimming fireplace to symbolize the fading warmth in the couple's relationship. This required precise descriptions and a great understanding of how visual elements can evoke specific emotions in the audience. The process of crafting this screenplay enhanced my ability to communicate complex emotions and narratives s.It really pushed me to consider the audience's perspective deeply, ensuring that each scene contributed meaningfully to the overall narrative and emotional arc.
Comparing these two artifacts, I recognize a significant evolution in my writing and communication skills. While "Little Things" honed my ability to convey emotions and stories through visual media, "Intersecting Realities" expanded my proficiency in analytical writing and critical discourse. Together, they represent a comprehensive development in my capacity to engage diverse audiences effectively. These experiences have helped me connect the interconnected relationships between purpose, audience, author, and context. Whether I am dissecting the societal implications of emerging technologies or weaving a narrative , I want to communicate my ideas clearly and with impact. By adapting my communication style to suit different media and purposes, I believe I have learned to express complex concepts and emotions in ways that resonate with varied audiences.