janaawrites2024

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WEEK 15 WRITEUP #5: Final Term Campaign

Our campaign aimed to shed light on the individuals and organizations behind online publications and their underlying motives. It's crucial for publications to remain unbiased, as they act as powerful voices shaping online discourse. Their content has a powerful impact on how people perceive the world. We wanted to understand the forces influencing the information we consume daily. Think of it like this: every article, every post, is a story told by someone with their own perspective. Understanding those perspectives is key to navigating the online world effectively. We believe that transparency about authorship and intent is vital for a healthy information ecosystem. My advice to readers online is to critically evaluate the content of that certain publication.

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4 campaign

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Week 15 Writeup #3: Final Term Campaign

by: Alteya

We conducted interviews with various writers from different publications at Central Mindanao University (CMU). The goal was to gain insights into their experiences, challenges, and inspirations. We aimed to highlight the diversity and talent within our university's writing community.

After conducting the interviews, we compiled the content and posted it on Facebook. While the campaign received a fair amount of attention, the interactions were not as high as we had hoped. Despite this, the campaign provided valuable exposure for the writers and allowed us to share their unique stories with a broader audience. It was a learning experience that highlighted the importance of engagement and the need for continuous improvement in our outreach efforts.

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Week 15 Writeup #2: Final Term Campaign

By Asthrielle

The process of creating our campaign video has been nothing short of a roller coaster ride. With numerous submissions piling up, we initially labeled this project as one of the things we should do after we finish all of our activities. Despite that, our group managed to pull it off, and I’m genuinely proud of what we accomplished, even with the challenges and lapses along the way.

One of the most enjoyable parts of the process was conducting interviews with publication writers. Asking them about the motivations behind their work offered me a wealth of valuable insights. It was fascinating to hear how their passions and experiences shaped their writings, providing a deeper understanding of the creative process.

Equally significant was interviewing the audience. We asked them how the posts influence their daily lives as students, and their responses deeply resonated with me. It made me realize I wasn’t alone in feeling that way. Hearing firsthand how the posts help them stay engaged and informed about events both on and off campus made me appreciate my role as an active student even more.

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Week 15 Writeup #1: Final Term Campaign

By: Nike

For our final exam, we had to make a campaign about our research which is about Perceived Motivations in Facebook Postings of College Publications at Central Mindanao University.

Our research is not only about understanding the driving forces behind social media content but also about enhancing the communication strategies of student publications. By involving the community in the research process and engaging them through various campaign activities, CMU’s publications will be empowered to deliver content that better resonates with their audience, fosters engagement, and promotes meaningful discussions.

As the landscape of student publications continues to evolve, understanding the motivations behind their posts is key to adapting to the ever-changing digital world. This campaign is a step toward improving college communication practices and ensuring that student publications at Central Mindanao University remain a vital, engaging part of the campus community.

Check out our campaign video made by the collective writers of Janaa Wrights.

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Week 14 Writeup #5: Poetry

By: Ams

Write a poem about going back in time. What do you see and feel?

I step into the past,

Childhood memories that won't last,

No fairy tale, but tears and strife,

Hardship etched on my youthful life.

I see my little self, so frail,

Enduring pains that still prevail,

Longing for comfort, for a gentle hand,

But none arrived, in a troubled land.

Helpless to shield my childhood too,

Frustration grips my heart anew,

Yearning to soothe the little me,

But time stands still, in misery.

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Week 14 Writeup #4: Social Media

Prompt: Write about a recent topic that’s trending in twitter/insta/facebook.

Words by: Asthrielle

One of the most trending topics across social media platforms right now is the growing tension between Vice President Sara Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

A recent and alarming political issue involves Vice President Sara Duterte's public remarks threatening the assassination of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. if she were to be killed. This has sparked widespread controversy, with many questioning her motivations and the stability of the current administration. This dramatic rhetoric has led to heightened tensions between Duterte and Marcos factions, further complicating their already strained political relationship. Calls for impeachment against Duterte have been gaining traction, adding to the uncertainty in Philippine politics as the 2025 elections approach

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Week 14 Writeup #3: Personal Writing

by: Alteya

What makes you stand out most as an individual? Do you like this quality about yourself? Why or why not?

What makes me stand out most as an individual is my ability to read other people's actions and my strong empathy towards them. This quality allows me to understand and connect with others on a deeper level, often sensing their emotions and needs even before they express them. It's a gift that helps me build meaningful relationships and offer support when it's needed most.

However, this quality is a double-edged sword. While I appreciate the ability to empathize and connect with others, it can also be overwhelming at times. Being highly attuned to others' emotions means I often absorb their stress and pain, which can be emotionally draining. Additionally, it can be challenging to set boundaries and not let others' feelings affect my own well-being.

In essence, I value this quality because it allows me to be a compassionate and understanding person, but I also recognize the importance of self-care and maintaining emotional balance. It's a constant journey of finding the right equilibrium between empathy and self-preservation.

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WEEK 14 Writeup #2: Write about a new book that you’ve read recently.

By: Jaez

“The Alchemist” 

So, “The Alchemist” is about this shepherd named Santiago, He’s got this dream of traveling the world, seeing all these amazing places.  He meets this old guy who tells him about this “Personal Legend” thing, like a special mission he’s meant to do in life.  Santiago’s all in, so he sets off on this epic journey.  He goes from Spain to Africa, meeting all sorts of people along the way.  He learns about listening to his heart, believing in himself, and not giving up on his dreams, even when things get tough.

It's kind of like a journey of self-discovery,  He learns a lot about himself and what’s really important in life.  He learns that the world is full of magic and that anything is possible if you believe in yourself.  He also learns that sometimes the most important things in life are the things you can’t see or touch, like love, hope, and faith.

And the way Coelho writes it, it’s just so beautiful and inspiring.  It makes you want to go out and chase your own dreams, no matter how crazy they might seem.  It reminds you that you have the power to create your own destiny and that anything is possible if you believe in yourself.  It’s a story that stays with you long after you finish reading it, making you think about your own dreams and what you’re willing to do to achieve them.

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Week 14 Writeup #1: Reflections

By: Nike

A Guide to Traversing the Seven Stages of Grief: Embracing Healing and Hope

"Grief is an emotional, physical, and spiritual necessity, the price you pay for love."

Grief is an intricate, deeply personal experience. It touches each of us in ways that no textbook can fully prepare us for, often disrupting the rhythm of our lives with a profound sense of loss. While there is no definitive roadmap through grief, the seven stages, a concept introduced by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in her groundbreaking 1969 book On Death and Dying, have offered a framework for understanding how people might process loss. But the stages, though helpful, should not be seen as linear or predictable—they are a fluid and often chaotic sequence of emotions that shape the journey of healing.

In this guide, we will explore each of these stages, offering insights on how to traverse them with resilience, wisdom, and a gentle awareness of what it means to heal. Grief is not something to be overcome, but a process of transformation that invites you to embrace both the sorrow and the potential for renewal.

1. Denial: The First Shield

Denial is often the first response to loss—a natural defense mechanism to buffer the initial shock. When faced with a painful reality, the mind may momentarily shut down, refusing to accept the finality of the situation. This stage serves as a protective barrier, allowing the individual time to adjust to the overwhelming emotions that are about to surface.

How to navigate denial: In this stage, the key is patience. Understand that your refusal to accept reality does not mean you are weak or broken. It is part of the human need to protect oneself from intense emotional pain. Take small steps toward acknowledging the loss, whether by talking about it with others, engaging in reflective activities like journaling, or simply sitting in silence to process your thoughts. Be kind to yourself as you adjust to the new reality, and remember that it’s okay not to have all the answers.

2. Anger: The Volcano Within

Once the veil of denial lifts, anger may surface. This emotion often feels raw, unjust, and uncontrollable. You might find yourself enraged at the loss, at others who are unaffected, or even at yourself. The world seems unfair, and it may feel as though your anger is all-consuming.

How to navigate anger: It’s vital to recognize that anger, though powerful, is often a mask for pain. Beneath the rage lies a deep sense of hurt, confusion, or helplessness. Instead of suppressing your anger, allow it to exist but channel it constructively. Exercise, creative outlets like art or music, or talking to a trusted friend can provide a healthy release. Remember, this anger does not define you, but it is a part of the healing process, guiding you toward a deeper understanding of the loss.

3. Bargaining: The Hopeful Heart

In the bargaining phase, the mind turns to “what ifs” and “if onlys.” People in this stage may attempt to make deals with themselves or a higher power, wishing for the possibility of reversing or lessening the pain. It can feel like a desperate attempt to regain control over the uncontrollable.

How to navigate bargaining: Bargaining often springs from a place of love and hope, even if it feels futile. Acknowledge these thoughts without judgment, but try to ground yourself in the present moment. Practicing mindfulness and self-compassion can help you detach from the unrealistic promises you may be making. Seek support from those who understand that bargaining is a temporary phase, and trust that healing doesn’t depend on fixing the past but learning to live with what has changed.

4. Depression: The Depths of Sorrow

As the full weight of the loss sinks in, depression can feel like an all-encompassing fog. This stage brings a deep sense of sadness, loneliness, and perhaps even hopelessness. The person may withdraw from life, overwhelmed by the emotional exhaustion of grief.

How to navigate depression: Depression can feel like an endless abyss, but it’s important to remember that it is part of the grieving process. In this phase, it’s essential to give yourself permission to mourn fully. Reach out for support, whether through therapy, a grief group, or close friends. Allow yourself to cry, to express your sorrow, and to rest. Practice self-compassion and acknowledge that your emotions are valid. Healing from depression in grief is not about “getting over it,” but about allowing the grief to teach you how to live in a world that has been irrevocably altered.

5. Acceptance: Finding Peace Amidst the Pain

Acceptance is often misunderstood as an end to grief, as if it means one is “over” their loss. In reality, acceptance is about making peace with the new reality. It’s not an eradication of pain, but rather a softening—a willingness to live with the loss and move forward with a heart that has been shaped by it.

How to navigate acceptance: Acceptance requires profound inner strength. It doesn’t mean forgetting or moving on, but rather learning how to live in a world that has been forever changed. You might find meaning in honoring the memory of what was lost, integrating it into your ongoing journey. Over time, the sharp pain of grief dulls, and a new, quieter joy can begin to emerge. In this stage, you can embrace life again, albeit in a different way, knowing that you are not betraying the memory of what you have lost.

6. Meaning: The Evolution of the Self

Some may experience a shift in perspective after acceptance—an understanding that grief, though difficult, can lead to personal growth. This stage is about finding meaning in the loss, a profound realization that, though life has been altered, it has also enriched you in unexpected ways.

How to navigate meaning: Finding meaning is a deeply personal journey. It might emerge as a renewed sense of purpose, a desire to help others who are grieving, or an unexpected growth in compassion. Reflect on how the loss has shaped you. Journaling, meditation, or engaging in community support can provide avenues for discovering new ways to connect with the world around you. This stage invites you to reimagine your identity in light of the experiences you have had, integrating grief into your evolving narrative.

7. Hope: A New Dawn

The final stage of grief is often one of quiet hope. It may seem elusive at first, but with time, the possibility of healing begins to emerge. Hope doesn’t mean the absence of grief, but rather the acceptance that joy can coexist with sorrow, that life can still hold meaning and beauty even after profound loss.

How to navigate hope: Hope doesn’t return all at once, but gradually, as you rebuild your life. It might manifest in small moments of joy—a good conversation, a walk in nature, or even a fleeting smile. Allow hope to unfold naturally, not as an expectation but as a gentle reminder that the future, though uncertain, holds potential. With each step forward, you move closer to a place where grief and hope coexist, each giving meaning to the other.

The Infinite Journey of Grief

Grief is not a process that can be neatly categorized into stages that one moves through and leaves behind. It is an evolving journey, one that transforms with time, wisdom, and self-compassion. As you traverse the seven stages, remember that they are not destinations but signposts along a path that leads to healing. Be gentle with yourself, honor your emotions, and trust that, in time, you will find your way toward a life that holds both sorrow and hope—forever intertwined.

Ultimately, grief is a testimony to the depth of love and the human spirit’s remarkable ability to heal, to grow, and to find meaning even in the most painful of circumstances. And as you walk this path, know that you are not alone. Every heart that grieves carries within it the potential to rise again, to find peace, and to rediscover the beauty of life, even after loss.

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Week 13 Writeup #5: Personal Writing

By: Ams

Who is your hero? Why is he/she your hero and how can you be more like him/her?

My all time favorite hero is my mother, she is my strength, my motivation to succeed. I can’t express how grateful I am to have a mother like her. Despite not having a complete family, I felt complete. She became my mother and a father figure. She works hard from the day i was born up to this day to support me and give me a comfortable life. I was beyond grateful because in times when everyone is against me, she is the only soul to lean on. When I succeed, I would gratefully spoil my mother the way she spoils me with everything.

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Week 13 Writeup #4: Literacy

Prompt: Write about a book you hate and why.

Words by: Astrielle

As someone who has read fewer than ten books in my lifetime, I still have developed both preferences and criticisms regarding the ones I’ve encountered. Among them, my most disliked book is Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James.

As a hopeless romantic, I found that reading the book highlighted how dependent and controlled Anastasia appeared to be in the story. While I understand it’s just a work of fiction, I realize the theme and style of the book may simply not align with my personal preferences.

The central relationship in the book is one of its most divisive aspects. For me, it felt unhealthy and one-sided at times. While I appreciate that the book attempted to delve into complex emotional territory, I couldn’t fully invest in the relationship because it often seemed to lack mutual respect and balance. This made it hard to root for the characters as a couple.

Christian Grey wields significant power in the relationship, not just emotionally but also socially and financially. As a young, inexperienced college graduate, Anastasia is thrust into a world of wealth and control, where Christian often dictates the terms of their interactions. This power imbalance creates a dynamic where Anastasia is consistently in a weaker position, making it hard to view their relationship as an equal partnership.

Another thing I hated is that while the story emphasizes the importance of consent in their sexual relationship, this principle is inconsistently applied. Anastasia often feels pressured to comply with Christian’s demands—whether it’s signing a contract or agreeing to activities she isn’t fully comfortable with.

The relationship between Anastasia Steele and Christian Grey is the biggest issue with Fifty Shades of Grey. What’s meant to be a story of love and liberation instead feels like a cautionary tale about control, manipulation, and the dangers of romanticizing unhealthy dynamics.

While some readers may enjoy the story for its escapism and dramatic tension, it’s worth questioning the messages it sends about love and relationships. Healthy love should empower both partners, not leave one constantly compromising or struggling to find their voice.

Of course, this is just my perspective. One of the wonderful things about books is how they mean different things to different people. What didn’t work for me might be exactly what another reader loves.

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WEEK 13 Writeup #3: Write about your favorite food.

by: Alteya

Tender patty rests, Gravy's warmth, rice's embrace, Burger steak--pure joy.

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Week 13 Writeup #2: Social Media

Write about a new book that you’ve read recently.

By: Jaez

“The Drown” by Kassan Jahmal Kassim a story that grabs you by the heart and doesn’t let go. It’s about Andre, a young Black man, who’s trying to find his footing in a world that feels like it’s constantly shifting beneath him. He’s got this heavy weight of grief from losing his father, and he’s trying to figure out who he is, where he belongs, and how to make sense of it all. He’s got this fear of water, too, a fear that runs deep and seems to mirror the fear he has of the world around him.

You see, Andre’s living in this neighborhood where everyone seems to have it all figured out, but he’s stuck in this constant struggle. He’s trying to find his voice, his place, and he’s battling with his own doubts and anxieties along the way. The book dives into these big questions about race, class, and what it means to be truly accepted. It’s not always easy, but it’s honest and raw, and it makes you feel like you’re right there with Andre, experiencing his triumphs and his setbacks.

The way Kassim writes is just beautiful, it’s like he paints pictures with words, and you can feel Andre’s emotions, his pain, his hope. It’s a story that stays with you, long after you’ve turned the last page. It makes you think, it makes you feel, and it leaves you with a sense of understanding about the human experience, about the struggles we all face, and the strength we find within ourselves to keep going.

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Week 13 Writeup #1: Non-fiction Writing

Shohei Ohtani’s Championship Game: A Moment of History and Hall of Fame Glory

by Nike

In a game that seemed destined for the history books, Shohei Ohtani delivered one of the most defining performances of his illustrious career, securing his place in baseball lore. The crowd at the stadium was electric as Ohtani, already a transcendent force in the game, took the field for what would be his final championship appearance of the season. With his spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame hanging in the balance—on the cusp of being voted into the 50/50 club—every pitch, every swing, was a statement of greatness. Image credit: Spectrum Sportsnet

The atmosphere was thick with anticipation. Ohtani, the two-way phenom who has redefined what is possible in the sport, faced the culmination of a season that has left fans in awe. His dual-threat abilities as a pitcher and hitter make him a rare breed in modern baseball. But tonight, the question wasn't whether he would continue to be a superstar—it was whether his career could be elevated to the ultimate level of immortality in Cooperstown.

As the game unfolded, Ohtani was every bit the superstar fans had hoped for. On the mound, he displayed the poise and power that has become his trademark. His fastball, touching the high 90s, was complemented by his devastating splitter that had batters swinging helplessly. He struck out 10 hitters in a masterful 7-inning performance, controlling the pace and rhythm of the game. His pitching alone was a performance worthy of recognition, but Ohtani was far from finished.

At the plate, Ohtani delivered a swing that fans would talk about for years. In the third inning, with the game tied and the bases loaded, he crushed a ball deep into the left-center field stands for a grand slam—his first of the season in this pivotal moment. The crowd erupted, and the entire stadium seemed to vibrate with the energy of the home run. It was a moment that encapsulated his power, his presence, and his unmatched versatility.

With his team cruising to victory, 8-2, Ohtani’s legacy was no longer just about a single season or a single game. This was the epitome of a career in progress—a career that has seen the 29-year-old rewrite the record books, combining elite pitching and hitting in a way that may never be duplicated again. His name is already synonymous with greatness, and as he walked off the field to a standing ovation, the whispers began: "Is this enough for the Hall of Fame?"

The answer, at least for now, is "yes." Following the game, Ohtani was officially placed on the 50/50 list, a distinction given to players who have exhibited extraordinary excellence in both hitting and pitching. It's a rare honor—one that only the most legendary players in history can claim. And for Ohtani, it’s another milestone in what promises to be one of the greatest careers in the sport's history.

“I’m just honored to play the game I love,” Ohtani said in his post-game interview, a humble response to a night that felt like the final stamp on his Hall of Fame credentials. “This is a team sport, and I’m just happy we were able to come out on top and win together. I couldn’t have done it without my teammates.”

As Ohtani’s team celebrated their championship victory, the baseball world took a collective pause to reflect on what this moment meant. It was more than just a win—it was the realization that we are witnessing a player whose impact on the game transcends numbers, moments, and records. Shohei Ohtani is not just a two-way player; he is a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon whose place in Cooperstown is now all but assured.

That night, Shohei Ohtani cemented his legacy—not just as a championship winner, but as one of the greatest to ever play the game.

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Required 5.5

Week 12 Writeup #5

What was your experience in coming up with your own research after your article critique?

by: Ams

I felt a mixed emotion. Happy, because I experienced critiquing  a paper. Anxious and overwhelmed, because that is also the first research title that I came up with last minute and pressured to meet expectations, yet excited to explore my research topic, despite the time constraint. This dual feeling fueled my determination to refine my research skills.

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Required 5.4 Writeup #4: What was your experience in coming up with your own research after your article critique?

Words by: Asthrielle

Coming up with my own research after completing the article critique was quite challenging for me. One of the biggest hurdles was the time pressure. The limited time to conceptualize and organize my ideas made it difficult to fully focus and produce a well-thought-out research capsule.

I struggled with generating a suitable title for my research. The article we critiqued was quite lengthy, which made it challenging to distill the key ideas and transform them into a concise, relevant, and original title. It felt overwhelming to sift through all the information and pinpoint a focus that could align with my research goals while staying true to the essence of the critiqued article.

I felt incredibly stressed when the time was up, especially since I wasn’t able to complete all the details I had planned to include. It left me feeling like I could have done better if I had more time or had approached the task differently. This experience was frustrating, but it also taught me the importance of time management and preparation in handling similar tasks in the future.

Overall, the process required a lot of effort, and it was a valuable learning experience, as it taught me how to synthesize information under pressure and sharpen my critical thinking skills.