Writing for Post-Grad Success

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

How do we write ourselves into being? In this upper-level course, students will explore the dynamic interplay among genre, identity, and performance, developing expertise in professional, technical, and personal non-fiction genres, from cover letters to grant proposals. Grounded in Rhetorical Genre Studies (RGS) and informed by key theories from Judith Butler, Irving Goffman, and Roz Ivanic, this course examines writing as a performative act that constructs and communicates identity in diverse contexts. Students will analyze and practice genres central to professional and personal advancement, including personal statements, cover letters, and project proposals, while critically examining how these texts shape and are shaped by identity. Through readings, discussions, and workshops, we will consider questions such as: How does writing perform identity? How does genre mediate the representation of self in writing? How can we leverage this knowledge to write effectively and authentically for post-graduate audiences? The course culminates in a portfolio that demonstrates students’ genre knowledge and prepares them for real-world, post-graduate applications. By integrating theoretical insights with practical experience, this course equips students to navigate the complex rhetorical landscapes of professional, academic, and personal writing with confidence and skill.