A course on the specific type of work known as the "public essay." Part personal, part argument, pubic essays seek to convey the writer's commentary on matters of community concern in a tone that is accessible and inclusive of the audience. These essays are often exploratory in nature, and students are encouraged to bring their own values, perspective, and insights in on each the three major class topics. During my time in this class, I wrote essays about "my generation," education and the environment, along with a final essay on a significant topic of my choosing. These long-form narrative pieces were expected to draw from topical readings and in-class discussions within each unit.

Overall, the course encourages students to think about global issues in new ways, and gives them the writing tools necessary to convey this understanding. Close attention is paid to each assigned writer's use of pronouns, address of audience and cultural references, as these factors allow the public essay to differ from its personal counterpart.