Thompson Rivers University has equipped me with a diverse skill set and an eagerness to learn more in the field of communications. From a young age, I’ve always been captivated by the power of words to transport readers to new worlds, evoke emotions, and provoke thoughts. My journey began with scribbles in the margins of notebooks which evolved into a fervent passion for storytelling. I am drawn to the freedom of expression that comes with being a writer. It is a world where imagination counts, and creativity knows no bounds. Much like other writers, I aim to leave a lasting impression on the world through my words.
When trying to decide what career path I wanted to pursue, writing was always at the back of my mind. I have a specific interest in creative writing and scriptwriting. Whether it’s through the lyrical prose of a poem or the raw honesty of a personal essay, I want to use my words to connect with others on a profound level and make them feel seen and understood. I enjoy telling stories, thus I want to pursue a career in creative writing. I like to use words to play and create believable characters and places. I can express myself uniquely and meaningfully through writing. Seeing the effect my stories can have on people whether it’s making them laugh, weep, or consider things differently is also a fantastic experience. I find it immensely satisfying and exciting to be able to share my creativity with the world through my work as a creative writer.
However, my love of narrative goes beyond the written word and into the field of screenwriting. The talent of turning words into action and bringing characters and worlds that come to life off the page and onto the stage or screen is what, in my opinion, makes writing screenplays so captivating. I see the ability to stir thought, question preconceived notions, and bring about change in the creative dance between the writer, director, actors, and audience.
Learning Outcomes
I have gained valuable skills in connection, involvement and exploration as a result of my time at TRU. My communication skills have developed substantially through my courses at TRU. I gained important writing experience through the different tasks we were assigned. Figured out my love for screenwriting after taking a screenwriting course that stuck with me. Engagement with course material improved my skills and cemented my interest. Courses like Journalism, communications and marketing have helped me improve my skills. I find it easier to communicate on different aspects be it formal or informal. Being at TRU has improved my teamwork skills. Learning how to come together with people from different works of life to achieve a certain goal has helped me improve my people skills.
My years at TRU have given me a confidence boost in everything I decide to do. I have learnt to have a new sense of conviction in my communication skills and my work. Courses like sociology gave me a better understanding of how society operates and this has helped me look at the world through more empathetic lenses. Courses like journalism have also helped my engagement. One of the most important aspects of journalism is interviewing, which also helps writers become more adept at developing real, convincing characters through dialogue and observation. Probing questions and attentive listening are two interviewing strategies that I have used to enhance character development and give narrative depth.
Tru has inspired me to explore other opportunities as well. I took a VISA course because of my interest in art. This course helped me get back into painting which is a hobby that I had not engaged in for a while. I also took some Digital photography courses, Tourism Management and Events which are things I have always been interested in. These opportunities to indulge in other areas have opened me up to tackle new challenges and find comfort in trying new things. It has positively influenced my creativity and allowed me to branch out. I’ve been able to improve both personally and professionally by taking on new challenges thanks to these talents.
These skills that I have learnt over my years at TRU are important for me going into a writing career for many different reasons. By getting an understanding of society, I am able to write pieces and stories that people can read and relate to. Exploring new things opens me up to be more creative with my ideas and as a result I dabble in different genres of writing. Building people skills has helped me connect with other like minded people.