Reflection Joanna Vines

For each unit assignment, I have researched a different topics. However, still focusing on the core themes of our course: organizational culture and workplace. For Unit 1 I expanded the canon by researching how LGBTQIA+ individual face challenges in the workplace, for Unit 2 I compiled a portfolio regarding the role of racial/ethnic identifies and how that affects the level of income and the connection that has to health statues, and for Unit 3 I unpacked an issue that I can relate to which is the mistreatment of women in the workplace. All of these topics were interesting to explore, and I have gained a deeper understanding on the struggles people with different backgrounds could experience and, on the importance, and ways of allyship. These assignments served as a great opportunity to understand the world of work which is quickly approaching for me. I will take what I have learned and continue to educate myself and apply it into future fields. Additionally, I like how I did not stick with one topic the entire way through this course because it diversified new perspectives I have developed. This course was such a great experience because I developed writing skills and exposure to important topics. Additionally, the feedback I received was always so detailed and insightful. I will take everything I learned to future work. I also am going to utilize “They Say, I Say” in my future writing. I loved this book and it helped guide me through so many assignments through the duration of this course. I like the templates and examples because it helped me get started with writing when I was stuck, as well as craft arguments and conclude my thoughts.

Unit 3 was my favorite because of our final project. I enjoyed having the freedom to choose my own topic and media form. It made the assignment way more interesting and engaging. I found the different steps through all the projects a very effective way to organize, plan, and think about what I was trying to accomplish with my work. Normally, I do not take all of those steps before completing a writing assignment. However, this year (and going forward) I am going to use the templates and techniques in my assignments.

In my project for unit 3 I did an infographic about identifying & addressing sexism and sexual assault in the workplace. This infographic’s audience was men entering or currently in the workplace. The infographic could be distributed online or posted in public settings. I included the problem, provides “Do/Don’ts”, highlights the importance of training and supporting victims, points to data/statistics, and offers additional resources (through links and a QR code). As a woman entering the workplace soon, I think this information is important to share with male collogues so I (and other women) can feel safe in the workplace.

Thank you Professor Oakes for a great summer semester!