Anne (Sp05)

When I found out that I was going to be in 098, I have to admit I was a little upset. I knew that in a way this was going to put me behind in school. Now that I am almost through with this class, I feel as if I can look back and say that I believe that it was a very positive experience and I do not regret it one bit.

When you enter English 098, go in with a very positive attitude and be ready to accept every challenge put out at you and complete it in the best way you can.  There is always something new to learn about English and this is the best time to learn it so later on in college you will be fine.

One of the most important things to do in English 098 is to keep up with the reading. The worst thing  is having to catch up on reading especially when you are most likely talking about the book in class, and have not read it.  also, the journals usually have to do with the things you are doing in class or the book you are reading.  So the best thing to do is to keep on schedule with your journals so everything is fresh in your  head, which makes it easier to write.

another thing that is important  is being in class as much as you can. In almost every class there is some kind of advice or assignment given to help you succeed in college, and it is not worth missing.

Teachers are not there to make your life difficult or to make you fail.  They are there to help you succeed in life and guide you through things. The teacher is there as a guide. There is always something new to learn, and even if you have learned a certain thing it never hurts to practice it. As long as you keep up on your work and stay focused, you will do great.

Melanie (F04)

I am happy to tell you about my wonderful experience of English 098, which has been more than an experience; it has brought my writing skills up high. In order to succeed in English 098 the most important factor is to pay attention. As you enter English 098, have an open mind and be alert. Pay attention, be alert, and always on time and up to date. Never have fear about your writing skills; remember that the more you write, the better you become. The reading and journals are very fun and important. Always make sure you have a copy of the course calendar. Any reading you’re assigned, make sure you read it, no matter how boring the title is or how long it is. Always be sure that anything you read in English 098, you will either write about it or get questioned on it. Journals, journals, journals – they are entirely fun. Always allow yourself to open you mind and heart when writing the journals. Provide any feelings or thoughts about the topic you are assigned…Ms. Reynolds is a very understanding person; never fear for help. But you have to show effort, in order for her to work with you. Like they say, it works both ways. Nevertheless, don’t fear at all about your writing skills. There is always Ms. Reynolds and the learning Resource Center that you can go to for help. English 098 is a good class to improve your writing skills. Keep trying no matter what, and you will succeed in life.

Valeria (Sp05)

I am a full-time student who commutes from Burbank to Northridge. My first thought about English 098 was that it was going to be tough and that I would have to write an essay every day.  As soon as I stepped into the class, I knew I wasn't alone and the professor was really nice.  Professor  Reynolds was open to everyone and made me feel comfortable, which was what I needed in an English Class.  My Experience in English 098 was really "chill;" I worked on all my essays and read the books.

The most important factor to succeed in 098 is to do all your essays, finish the homework, and read the books all on time, or you'll fall behind.  Once you skip class, you will fall behind and your grade will start to drop.

The attitude a new student should have when he/she enters English 098 is to feel relaxed because there are so many students who feel new in the class.  The best attitude to give out is to feel confident and to make friends with the people in your class, because it could be useful when you miss the class.

The readings and journals are very important. the readings always have to do with an essay, or it might even include a quiz.  Plus the professor usually talks about the reading and if you don't read you'll lose points and most likely you'll get lost in the future when you're assigned to write an essay. The readings aren't long if you read them on time. The journals are also a big part of your grade.  Journals are usually assigned one or twice a week.  The journals are easy but if you skip a few days, it becomes harder to make up. I have learned not to leave all the journals for the last day because you spend hours on six journal entries when you could be doing other homework.

If you just take twenty minutes to finish your journal entry, you don't have to worry about doing it later. My best advise is to do all your work on time so you won't lose points or fall behind.

Attendance is also important because the class always goes over new assignments or upcoming dates of an essay or test. Also, if you miss a workshop day you will lose points as well.  Attendance doesn't seem important, but if you don't show up, you will lose something, whether it's homework, or an important discussion in class.  Overall, don't miss class---it's not worth it.

A new student can work effectively with Ms. Reynolds through many ways.  The main way is to talk to Ms. Reynolds; do not be shy.  You can talk to her before or after class, or by meeting her in her office.  Ms. Reynolds is a comfortable professor who is willing to talk to anyone in person or on-line. Ms. Reynolds also has a website where you can email her anytime about anything. For example, if I had an appointment and was not going to attend class, the best way of letting Ms Reynolds know is through email.  Another example is if my essay was really poor and I wanted to fix it, the best decision to make is to make a one-on-one appointment with the professor.  This way you can feel more comfortable in private with the professor, plus she will understand you better and can help you. 

Eddie (Sp05)

I really enjoyed 098; I feel it helped me become a better writer and prepared me for 155. I believe the most important factor to succeed in 098 is to follow the class calendar closely and look ahead. A new students should have an attitude of wanting to improve their writing to prepare for the rest of their college experience....A new students should visit with Prof. Reynolds at her office on a regular basis. This way both of you are on the same page, and as a student you feel more confident if you get to know your professor better.

Roger (Sp05)

To all those who are about to take either 097 or 098, do not feel down on yourself because regretting will not make any differences. Take these classes proudly and thoroughly, learn all that you can from these courses because they WILL help you later on in your college career. If you decide to take 097 or 098 with Amy Reynolds, I suggest that you maintain a solid work and study habit, keep up with all the homework, and don't be late to class.

Marian  (SP04)

I was disappointed, shocked, and angry that I didn’t pass the English Placement Test. I felt dumb and embarrassed. All of those negative feelings changed when I went to English 097. Since English 097 was an amazing experience, I knew that English 098 was going to be just as great.

English 098 made me gain confidence in my essays. I know that my essay writing, reading, and interpreting has improved. Not only has English 098 helped me in English, but also in other subjects. I have realized that my study skills have improved because when I read the text, I get a clear idea of what I have read.

I believe that if you have an open mind and confidence in yourself, then you can succeed in English 098. Every day I walk into class proud and walk out of class with knowledge. Furthermore, a positive attitude and attendance is needed in class.
Attendance is very important because every little bit of information matters. Because English 098 classes are small, it is important that everyone come to class. When a few people are absent, then everyone in class suffers because English 098 is an active learning class where we are always in small groups.

I followed every assignment listed in the class calendar, which included reading assignments and journals every week. Reading assignments are related to the journals. If you the journals are complete on time, then you are ready to attend class. All of the discussion are from the readings.

English 098 is not a hard class if you put your mind to it. Reading, doing journals, turning in essays, and attending class will help you succeed. I enjoyed being in English 098 because it helped me gain confidence in all of my work for all of my classes.

Claudia (Sp05)

The class, I must admit, was fun [because] the students do HyperNews Assignments which give students from all classes a chance to get to know each other and share ideas.  The most important factor to succeed in English 098 is to stay on top of things.  When an essay is due, start gathering ideas 2 weeks ahead.  Never fall behind.

You always want to do your journals just because they help you with certain assignments.  Every journal you do is like a summary that will later help you with an essay or a review.  The reading is a must if you want to stay on top of things. If you don't read, you don't know what the class discussion is about.

Maritza (F04)

….You should have an open mind, and even though you feel you don’t belong in this class, you probably do. The journal really helps you explain yourself on how you feel about issues and gives you an easier time when explaining about what you read. Attendance is important because there is a lot of group work and discussion that is done. Always be prepared for class discussion because otherwise, you have no idea what is going on.

Kyung-bum (SP 05)

Participation is very important in this class. If a student keeps not coming, he/she will fail and be kicked out of CSUN. Not only attendance, but class participation is important as well. I realized that talking in class during discussions increased my speech and communication skills.  Please do something rather than just sitting on a chair!

Loyda (SP04)

I came into English 098 a beginner in writing. I had some troubles with developing essays, topics, thesis, and so on. I never really had trouble in high school, but in college, I am – or was – lost. College is so different and professors expect other things. I was lost because I didn’t know what the expectations were. 098 helped me with that. I taught me and helped me to learn what I needed to learn. To be successful, you must be dedicated and not slack off. Getting behind is easy, but catching up – that’s the tricky part. Attendance is one of those main factors. Missing a day means tremendous work you missed. Readings are very important; make sure you have those done before attending class, so you won’t be lost. Journals help in understand what you’ve read y writing summaries. Ms. Reynolds is understand and all you have to do is work yard, learn, and consult her with your troubles in class. Don’t be afraid to ask for her help and advice.

Edwin (Sp05)

....the most important factor in English 098 is to absorb and learn as much as possible. mostly everything you learn in this class are aspects of English that you did not learn in high school---so pay attention!  Second, when you first find out that you have to take remedial classes you will be disappointed, but that is normal. After taking the class you will realize it was beneficial to you. so maintain a positive attitude throughout the entire class.  

Journals---get used to them because you're going to be doing a lot of them. Do not take the journals lightly and do not start working on them last minute. The journals are often a pre-write for one of the essays you will have to write for the class.

The way that  you can work effectively with Ms. Reynolds is by taking advantage of her office hours to speak one on one, especially if you're confused with the essays. Another way is by putting yourself out there and giving your opinion in the class discussions. Just make sure she sees that you're trying and working hard.

Franklin (SP04)

I am Franklin, a freshman, 19 years old, and majoring in graphic design. My experience in English 098 was quite fun. A lot of people who are better writers than me are in the class, especially my friend who is also a good artist and a better essay writer. So I was really bogged down on how the rest of this class was succeeding more than I was. The most important factor to succeed in English 098 is learning the way a good writer writes. In other words, learn their techniques. Then you can easily write the best essay in the class.

When I entered the class, I was looking for easy assignments and homework, and they were. I was quite motivated in the beginning, but in the end I was more of a lazy person. So when a student enters and English class, he/she needs to be more of a hard worker, do all the necessary homework and the required essays. Then you won’t have to worry about not passing. Read the assigned readings; they might actually be interesting. If your teacher wants you to do the journal, you should easily do it and write two paragraphs or two pages. It's also good practice in writing; makes you want to write more, and think faster.

Attendance in the class is also the important factor in an English class. If you miss one day of class, you won’t know what is happening or what was taught or assigned and you will be behind. Also avoid losing some points. I was always five minutes late during the second and third month of the class because I was doing homework or finishing an essay at home and I had to drive to school and look for the closest parking lot, which was always full. So make sure you go to class a little early since it takes normally about 20 minutes to get to class.

When you are in Ms. Reynolds’ class you should have the best attitude, attendance, and good work habits in class. Turn in all your drafts and work she wants you to do. Be respectful as she teachers her lessons, which are always interesting.

William (F04)

My name is William. My experiences in English 098 has been risky, bumpy, and what have you. It’s a great learning experience for anyone to expand their knowledge and accomplish what they must with English courses ahead. The most important thing is to take risks and not to be afraid to try something new. That is what will help you succeed in English 098. As you enter English 098, there should be no fear in your eyes of the obstacles you must face. If you can, do your reading ahead of time so you can just review in class. Same with journals; do them thoroughly but ahead of time so you don’t get piled up with work. Show up to class on a daily basis because you never know when a new subject will come up that’s important. Keep asking questions, because that will get you ahead in the class. To further understand, ask as many questions as you can to Ms. Reynolds; she knows plenty.

Joseph (SP05)

To work well with Ms. Reynolds, one my come to class every day.  Come ready to learn and still joke around with Ms. Reynolds.  Most importantly,  do the work she assigns on time. I have seen too many people write one page for their first draft of their paper. That is unacceptable; make sure you actually try to fulfill the assignment and get at least 3 pages for the first draft.

Heather  (SP04)

My experience in 098 was a bit difficult. Now at the end of the paved road of my freshman year, I stand at a plateau that lies at the foot of the Mount Everest that is the rest of my college career. I look back at the paved road, remembering what it took to get it that way, and I smile. I stare at the journal entries that once were the loose gravel and think, "Thank God, I took the time to complete them!" The readings for the journals and the journals themselves turned out to be the backbone to the papers. The three papers created the large potholes that separated me from where I am currently standing. Slowly they were filled as I brainstormed, wrote character analysis, did research, and composed draft after draft. My attitude compressed the loose gravel and the pothole together and made the road suitable. I tried to maintain a positive outlook during the course. I would tell myself, "Don’t give up! It will all be worth it in the end. Just take baby steps. One thing at a time." So now I am at the end of English 098, the end of my freshman year, and I have survived.
 
Reggie (SP04)

Use English 098 as a tool. My name is Reggie and I came into this class thinking that this was going to be a hard class because I have been told that college professors enjoy failing students. The class wasn’t easy, but that wasn’t true at all. This class helped me develop my writing skills to another level. I used this class as a tool to do that. I used all the comments from my classmates during workshops and all the comments from the professor. In order to pass this class you have to take everything that is given to you and use it. The reading assignments and journals are good for help you summarize essays in your own words so you understand it better. No matter how good your essay may seem to you, it can always be better. Don’t be discouraged when you receive a x- on your essays, because you can always fix them.

 Robert (F04)

Hello, future students of English 098. My experience in any English class normally is not great because English is not my greatest subject. However, I learned a lot about writing and getting along with others and not depending on just myself to succeed. I have learned life lessons in this class. I learned to make friends and not be a quiet person. This class has changed my life as a student and as a person. The most important factor to succeed in English 098 is that you put forth your best effort and try your hardest with all you have….To work effectively with Mrs. Reynolds, just be yourself and just show respect and interact with one another.

Tracey (SP04)

This class really enhanced my writing skills, helping me to write better essays. In English 098 I learned a lot about grammar, sentence structures, and using quotes to back up my points. I believe the most important factor in 098 is to work hard and do all the homework. You must have a positive attitude so that you are willing to learn because if you have an open mind, you will learn so much more in this class. Just attend class everyday and do your journals. The journals are pretty interesting because the reading material is really enjoyable, and it will catch the reader’s attention because informative issues are brought up. This class is one of the most informative and helpful classes that I have taken so far at CSUN.

Xiomara (F04)

I think I had a pretty good experience. I learned a lot from the writing workshops. When your group mates write good comments, you are more likely to write good papers. The most important factor is to take good notes and have good attendance, because if you miss a day, you will miss good points or skills to learn to write a good paper. As you enter 098, come to class with a positive attitude, because if from the beginning you feel good, you are more likely to succeed and keep up with the work you have to do.