Western Oregon University’s First-Year Writing Program publishes Unbound: A First-Year Writing Anthology, a digital collection of the exemplary work produced by students enrolled in WR 121z and WR 122z (Composition 1 and Composition 2). Unbound: A First-Year Writing Anthology celebrates the creative thinking, sophisticated prose, and impressive inquiry projects taken on by our students. The work in this anthology includes compositions in a range of genres and modalities, showcasing their identities as writers. To download a paper, click on the title. Student papers will download as fully accessible PDFs. If you identify an accessibility issue with a student’s paper, contact Samantha Morgan at morgansam@mail.wou.edu. The views and opinions expressed by students in Unbound are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Western Oregon University.

Volume 7

WR 121z Essays

Beyond the Box: Why the Formal Writing Rule Needs Rewriting

Author: Alex Lofton

Course: WR 121z, Spring 2025

Instructor: Patricia Giménez-Eguíbar

Abstract: This essay examines the long-standing expectation that serious writing must always be formal. Drawing from academic research, military experience, and nonprofit leadership, the paper argues that rigid writing structures often silence authentic voice and discourage meaningful communication. Rather than abolishing formal writing, the essay advocates for a more flexible approach that values audience awareness, storytelling, and personal perspective alongside clarity and structure.

Bio: Alex Lofton is a U.S. Army Veteran with 25 years of service in military medicine, leadership, and instruction. He will graduate from Western Oregon University in June with an undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Studies focused in Humanities and Social Sciences. Alex also serves as a nonprofit leader with Brotherhood United Motorcycle Association (BUMA), where he advocates for Veterans, community outreach, and authentic communication through communication and service.

Keywords: Academic writing, writing rules, voice

The Process of the Voice

Author: Alejandro Solano

Course: WR 121z, Fall 2025

Instructor: Nicole Nugent

Abstract: This reflective essay explores personal growth through determination and collaboration in college. Explaining how small responsibilities, class participation, and peer reviews revealed the importance of discipline, communication, and attention to detail. Through challenges and teamwork, the author gains confidence, strengthens relationships, and develops habits for future success.

Bio: Hi, my name is Alejandro Solano and I’m a business major that loves to do photography professionally. In my spare time I like to go golfing, go on hikes, and watch football. I like to do things even if I have no idea what I’m doing (like this) and see where it takes me. Other than that there’s a little bit about me, bye!

Keywords: Academic writing, voice, process, poetry

The Fox, the Rose, and the Five-Paragraph Essay

Author: Zanna Ise

Course: WR 121z, Fall 2025

Instructor: Nicole Nugent

Abstract: This essay examines how the little prince influenced my understanding of academic writing and creativity. Through personal reflection and literary analysis, the essay critiques the restrictive nature of the five paragraph essay while recognizing its organizational value. By drawing connections between the novel, themes and my own personal experiences, this essay argues that academic writing can maintain clarity and structure while also encouraging imagination, personal expression, and emotional depth.

Bio: My name is Rois Ise, and I am from the Republic of Palau. I am currently a junior at Western Oregon University, majoring in interdisciplinary studies with a focus on pursuing a career in nursing. Outside of academics, I enjoy traveling wherever I have the opportunity and experiencing new places. Being far from home while balancing school and my goals has been challenging, but it also taught me how to manage my time effectively and stay grounded in the support I received from my family and community back home.

Keywords: Academic writing, personal writing, The Little Prince, five-paragraph essay

WR 122z Essays

The Ropes of Theatre: A Study of Membership in Western Oregon’s Theatre Department

Author: Abigail Hawkins

Course: WR 122z, Spring 2025

Instructor: Samantha Morgan

Abstract: This essay explores the values of theatre and its ability to create long-lasting communities. I examined WOU’s theatre department by exploring the overlooked question of how new members are integrated into the theatre community and why they choose to stay. Because theatre is such a powerful tool for connection. I chose to explore how finding your community within college can have long-lasting effects on your life; the way theatre impacted mine.

Bio: My name is Abby Hawkins, and I’m currently a sophomore majoring in Communications. I’ve always had a passion for the performing arts, and I’ve sought it out as long as I can remember. I enjoy all activities where I have a chance to be creative. Outside of academics, I love to act, sing, write, and spend time outdoors. I one day hope to blend my passions with my love of helping others to create positive change.

Keywords: Discourse community, membership, theatre, connection

The Strength of Spanglish

Author: Kelsey Solis

Course: WR 122z, Winter 2026

Instructor: Matt Haas

Abstract: This essay takes a look into the use of Spanglish and how it can be a powerful tool to connect the Hispanic community together. Using my own personal experiences and interviews, I take a closer look at how each generation uses Spanglish to their advantage in blending into their environment. I also take a look on how it can be used as a powerful tool in unifying the two generations together, especially when looking at the type of climate the Hispanic community is currently finding themselves in.

Bio: My name is Kelsey Solis, I am a first year, first-generation student at WOU. I’m currently majoring as a Pre-nursing student, striving to get into a nursing program in hopes of soon becoming an Emergency and Forensic Nurse. I come from Newberg, Oregon, but choose Western because of it being close to home and the different program opportunities it offers. Outside of my academics, I am a huge art lover of all forms. I especially enjoy dancing, and am currently a part of the WOU dance team.

Keywords: Spanglish, community, language, generations

STAY: Building Vibrant Community through Language

Author: Eliana Wages

Course: WR 122z, Winter 2026

Instructor: Jean Little

Abstract: This paper explores the language practices used in the K-pop fandom STAY and the role it plays in fostering community. By focusing on the lexis specific to bias groups, this research demonstrates the diversity of experience and engagement within STAY. Examining group dynamics, nicknames and tone, and references to content reveals a dynamic shared language at the foundation of social interactions within the community. As the interaction between language practices and building connection online is ever evolving, this paper contributes to a growing understanding and exploration of its manifestations specific to STAY.

Bio: Eliana Wages is a first year English Education major at Western Oregon University. She is passionate about teaching and has spent over 5 years in ECE before making the switch to higher education. As a lifelong Oregonian, she hopes to continue to make a positive impact on the children and families in her community. Eliana always strives for a balanced and relaxing life through her love of music, literature, and games.

Keywords: Language practices, lexis, online community, social connections, K-pop, fandom, STAY, Stray Kids