Mahdi’s English blog

  Prompt Response: The Challenges of Writing an Informational Essay Summary: The hardest part of writing an informational essay for me is organizing my ideas, as I often struggle to arrange them coherently. Reflection: To overcome this challenge, I plan to use outlines and mind maps to visualize connections between my points and ensure a clear flow in my writing. This approach should help me create more cohesive essays.

 Summary: Near-death experiences (NDEs) often involve vivid sensations, such as floating or encountering a bright light. Individuals reporting NDEs frequently describe transformative insights that suggest deeper meanings about existence and the afterlife. While some interpret these as spiritual phenomena, others seek scientific explanations related to brain activity. Reflection: I find near-death experiences both fascinating and meaningful. While scientific explanations offer valuable insights into the brain's role during such moments, I believe NDEs hint at a spiritual dimension of life. The common themes of love and connection suggest that consciousness might continue beyond our physical existence. Regardless of the interpretation, NDEs encourage us to reflect on our beliefs about life after death and inspire discussions about the nature of existence.

Summary: Mastering precise vocabulary greatly improves daily communication and academic success by allowing individuals to express their thoughts clearly and reduce misunderstandings. In academics, it helps students articulate ideas convincingly, leading to better grades. Reflection: Having a strong vocabulary has positively impacted the way I communicate. It boosts my confidence in class discussions and writing, enabling me to express my ideas effectively. This clarity helps me connect better with peers and enhances my overall academic performance. Ultimately, mastering vocabulary is crucial for being understood and achieving success in both school and everyday life.

I prefer suburban life when I become an adult. Summary: Suburbs offer community, space, and access to nature, making them more appealing than city life. They provide a quieter, family-friendly atmosphere. Reflection: I cherish the community feel of suburbs, having enjoyed visiting friends in those neighborhoods. I envision raising a family there, where children can play outdoors and neighbors connect. While cities have their perks, the tranquility and space of the suburbs align better with my lifestyle goals.

Summary: "Serendipity" resonates with me as it embodies the joy of unexpected discoveries. I first learned this word in a college literature class, where we discussed how great moments often happen by accident. Reflection: A personal experience of serendipity occurred during a solo trip when I unexpectedly reunited with an old friend. This chance meeting rekindled our friendship and reminded me to stay open to life's surprises. Embracing serendipity adds a sense of wonder to my everyday experiences.

Summary: I often check product origins when shopping and am willing to pay more for items made in the U.S. to support local jobs and reduce environmental impact. Reflection: Buying American feels like an investment in my community. Despite higher prices, the benefits of quality and ethical production make it worthwhile, aligning with my values of sustainability and social responsibility.

Summary: In my sophomore year, I failed a critical exam due to poor preparation. This setback forced me to rethink my study habits. Reflection: Failing the exam was a key moment for my growth. It taught me the value of preparation and seeking help. This experience ultimately improved my academic performance and showed me that failure can lead to valuable lessons and better decision-making.

Summary: Oprah Winfrey’s journey from poverty to media mogul illustrates the power of resilience, hard work, and authenticity. Her success emphasizes the importance of overcoming challenges and giving back to the community. Reflection: From Oprah, I learn that persistence is key to achieving my dreams. Staying true to myself and using my future success to help others can create a positive impact. Her story inspires me to approach my goals with determination and a spirit of generosity.

Summary: The passages highlight the rising concern of student loan debt and suggest strategies to minimize it, such as applying for scholarships, attending community college first, and seeking affordable education options. Reflection: To avoid student loan debt, I will actively research and apply for scholarships, consider dual-enrollment programs at community colleges, and maintain a part-time job during college to cover expenses. I’ll focus on universities that offer good financial aid and adopt a budget-friendly approach to my education. This proactive strategy aims to keep my debt to a minimum.  

  Summary: The word "parody" refers to a humorous imitation of a particular style or work, often exaggerating its characteristics for comic effect. I encountered this term in a creative writing class while analyzing works, who uses musical parody to satirize popular songs. Reflection: Understanding parody has improved my writing by allowing me to engage readers through humor and critique. It enhances my ability to analyze texts and express ideas creatively, making my communication more relatable and entertaining.

 ABSENT

  Word: Serendipity Summary: Right now, my favorite word is serendipity . It means finding something good or unexpected without actually looking for it. I love how this word captures those little moments in life when something amazing happens purely by chance. Reflection: Serendipity is my favorite word because it reminds me that good things can come from unexpected places. I don't use it in everyday conversation super often, but I think about the meaning a lot when something surprising and positive happens. It's like a reminder to stay open to whatever life throws my way because you never know what kind of happy accident might be around the corner!