Yesterday, several of my students asked me what my blog address was. I had told them earlier in the semester that I'd give it to them at the end of class--and they actually remembered.
To my students from ENGL 117W and ENGL 155:
I really enjoyed our classes this semester. The 117W class was such a pleasant surprise. You all were such a fun group. I really enjoyed your energy and willingness to try new things in your writing. I think you made me laugh in every class period . . . but I also really enjoyed our one-on-one, more serious interactions about your writing. I've seen a lot of growth both in your abilities and in your enjoyment of writing. I appreciate so much your generosity with me as I taught this first 117W class. Next week, I'm meeting with the person who will teach 117 in the fall--I'll have a lot of good things to say about teaching this class, thanks to you all.
Although I'd taught 155 a number of times at Fresno State, each class is different. I really enjoyed our class discussions: your intelligence, insight, and enthusiasm made class an interesting and educational place to be. I learned a lot from you. I especially enjoyed ending the semester with Tony Kushner's Angels in America. Our discussions about the responsibilities we have to each other and the new kinds of communities that we can create were particularly enlightening. I'm glad to have experienced our classroom community this semester . . .
I had hoped to feel well enough to go to the Arts and Humanities convocation today (which is actually being held even as I type). My pesky cold prevented me from doing so. But know that my thoughts are with those of you who are graduating (Rachel, Katie, and so many of my former students). I celebrate your accomplishments and am so glad to have gotten to know you.
