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Running Head: REFLECTION ESSAY

Reflection Essay

Robert Gallegos

Brandman University
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Running Head: REFLECTION ESSAY

Taking courses at Brandman University has helped me become a much more well-

rounded writer and expand my overall knowledge. Having to write academic papers in different

subjects like intercultural communications and nutrition has helped me expand my overall

knowledge. Taking these courses will also help open different career opportunities once my

degree is completed, that I would not have had before. The most important thing for me is that it

has shown my children that a degree is attainable, and it feels good setting an example.

Currently working in law enforcement, I have to write reports for a living. I have

been doing this for almost fourteen years now and I believed I was a very proficient writer.

Having worked multiple assignments, such as being a supervisor and approving reports to

working in detectives have helped me with my writing. In detectives, I had to investigate cases

and write thorough follow up reports to obtain criminal filings for cases. Writing is such a key

component to my profession, and I have learned that a few minutes of fun like a car chase can

lead to many hours of paperwork. Since starting at Brandman University I have learned that my

writing was far from proficient.

Before attending Brandman University, I had never had to write a memo letter, problem

statement, or provide a multimedia presentation. I think learning how to do these different types

of writings has made me a much more confident and well-rounded writer. These courses have

taken me out of my comfort zone and caused me many sleepless nights. I know coming out of

my comfort zone is the key to helping me grow and become successful. These writings have also

helped with my report writing and made me much more comfortable and when the time comes

for me to promote, I will be able to put together well thought out multimedia presentations.
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Running Head: REFLECTION ESSAY

Taking courses at Brandman University has helped me to expand my overall knowledge.

Before Brandman University I had taken a few courses at a local community college, but they

were not very difficult. Taking courses at Brandman University has caused me to think and

work hard to complete my coursework. It has also helped me to understand to grow sometimes

we need to leave our comfort zone. This kind of hit home right now as at work I feel like I am

stuck and once my degree is completed, I will be able to apply for better career opportunities.

The most important thing for me is that it shows my children that a degree is attainable. I

am soon to be forty years young, work full time, have a part-time job, and help to manage my

family. So, showing my children with hard work and prioritizing your life you can do it too. It

shows how important a degree is and that if you want a degree you will avoid excuses and do it.

It was unfortunate due to Covid-19 that my graduation was virtual, but I look forward to walking

hopefully next year. Overall, I am very happy that I chose to attend Brandman University and

look forward to moving forward with the next chapter in my life.