Dallas Petit Jean
Professor Anna Steegmann
English 201002
Hi everyone!
My name is Dallas Jean. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Art in International Studies. After graduation, I plan to get a master’s in International Relations. I am taking this class not only because it is a requirement, but also to improve my writing in English since it is my second language. I have been living in New York City for five years, and I am originally from the Caribbean.
Reading has always been my favorite pass time growing up. I liked that I could escape everyday life and experience multiple realities. I get to meet characters that I can relate and see a different perspective. My favorite genre of books are the classics. I started reading books by a French Author called Countess de Segur when I was about eight years old and fell in love with reading. I would devour two to three books a week. My favorite authors are Jane Austin, Agatha Christie, Danielle Steele, Victor Hugo, to name a few.
When it comes to books published nowadays, I am a bit skeptical to read them. The reason as to why I am skeptical is because most of the books considered as bestseller are not necessarily great. I realize that most of them are bestsellers because of great marketing. Last summer I read "The woman in the windows" by A.J. Finn, a New York Times bestseller, and I was quite disappointed. It is best to read a book for learning purposes, interesting new stories and characters, then because of its popularity.
My favorite authors have always inspired me to develop my own writing style. Most of my writing has been in French, and it took me quite a while to become fluent in writing in English. As writing is part of my studies, I try to write as part of my routine to improve in that area, it can be a short story or an essay.
Reading and writing is an essential part of my studies. I hope by taking this class, I will improve my current writing skills. I want to be able to express myself adequately. I would like to be able to feel more confident in conveying my thoughts in written form. I am okay with sharing my work with my classmate, I think constructive criticism can be helpful.
All in all, I am looking for a great semester!
Sincerely,
Dallas P. Jean