Dear Spring 2009 students,

First of all, this class is one of the most, if not the most practical class you will have in college. It truly prepares you for things that you will encounter in the work force. The best way to be successful in this class, that I found, is to look at the To-Do list every Sunday night and plan your week by that. Write down when things are due in your agenda so you don't forget.

As far as the client project, make sure that you definitely take notes on the day that your client comes in to speak. Write down their first and last name, all their contact information and any thing else that they said that might be of relevance to you. Pick group members that you will not have schedule conflicts with. Also, at your first group meeting look at all the due dates for the parts of the project and plan meetings, when things are due, etc. based on this. This way if someone has a big test or project in another class they are able to plan around it. Communication with the client and group members is crucial, make sure that everyone is on the same page. It is important too that you maintain a rapport with your group members. Oh, and I almost forgot, make sure at the first group meeting be sure to get all of your group members contact information. In case you have an emergency or have to be late for a meeting you want to let them know. Collaborating with other groups on ideas is also helpful, this way the projects can be more efficient for the client using them.

Preparing career writing materials is a big part of this class as well and one of the most beneficial things for you. I suggest doing several drafts of your resume and going back and editing it several times. A lot of times I would forget what I did this one year and have to go back and add it. Also, try to get a professional in the field you are applying for to review your resume before you submit it for a final grade. These items are really important because they go on your online portfolios so spend some good time working on these. Also, ask Mrs. Rogers to look over your resume too, she is a great source!!!

This class incorporates a lot of technology and it is very useful. To be sure that you are not confused when you actually go to do something online, make sure that the web portfolio workshop days that you are in class and writing down exactly what Mrs. Rogers is doing. This helps you when you go to create it-it gives you a step-by-step guide. Also, if you are still not understanding stay after class with Mrs. Rogers and ask her to show you again, she is always willing to do this.

Finally, go to class! Class is really fun and really beneficial-you really get to know your peers. Also, if you don't go to class you will miss out on a lot of daily grades. Good luck with English 304 it is an awesome class with an awesome teacher so take advantage of the time you have!