Reflective Summary

This semester’s blog writing has completely changed how I approach expressing ideas. In the past, I relied more on visuals, like sketches and renderings, to convey concepts rather than structured writing. I found it challenging to organize my thoughts in a way that would make sense on paper, especially in English, which requires extra effort to understand and articulate complex ideas. However, I’ve come to see writing as more than just a form of communication—it’s a process that forces me to think critically and analyze topics in a deeper, more structured way.

Throughout this course, I’ve gradually built up the confidence to share my thoughts, even if they feel incomplete. I realized that starting to write is often the hardest part, but once I do, I can uncover new perspectives and connections that I wouldn’t have thought of otherwise.

One of the biggest challenges has been connecting course content with my blog topics in a meaningful way. As someone from an Environmental Design background, I used to focus more on the practical aspects of design—like aesthetics and spatial layouts—but writing these blogs has required me to think about broader social, cultural, and environmental issues. This has been a valuable but sometimes overwhelming shift in perspective.

Learning to format references correctly and integrate academic literature into my writing was another hurdle. At first, it felt tedious, but I now see how these details strengthen the credibility and professionalism of my work. It’s also been rewarding to see my progress in blending academic rigor with personal reflection.

This semester has been an eye-opening experience. While academic writing is still a struggle for me, I’m beginning to appreciate it as a tool for understanding complex issues and organizing my thoughts. Reflecting on urban topics like sustainability, public spaces, and urban resilience has helped me connect theoretical concepts with real-world applications.

More importantly, I’ve realized that writing helps bridge the gap between my Environmental Design background and the interdisciplinary nature of urban studies. It’s not just about fulfilling academic requirements; it’s a way to explore new ideas and challenge my assumptions.

In the future, I hope to embrace writing with more confidence and use it as a way to develop both my critical thinking and my personal voice. While I still have a lot to improve, I believe that this journey will not only enhance my academic growth but also make me a more thoughtful and innovative designer in the long run.

References list:

Alexander, C. (1977). A Pattern Language: Towns, Buildings, Construction. Oxford University Press.

Lynch, K. (1960). The Image of the City. MIT Press.

Jacobs, J. (1961). The Death and Life of Great American Cities. Random House.