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 121 and WR 122 (College Writing 1 and College Writing 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 paper, please contact Dr. Graziano using the contact information at the bottom of the page.

Volume 4

even now, the assignment is wrong

Winner of Outstanding Essay Award

Author: Bree Trickel

Course: WR 121

Instructor: Tandy Tillinghast

Abstract: An untraditional essay in which mental health is paired with poetry. It is spoken prose and meant to combine art with assignment. In particular, what one can get from writing and learning experiences, and why teachers are so important.

Keywords: Literacy narrative, poetry, prose, writing experiences

Learning to Love

Winner of Outstanding Essay Award

Author: Jennifer Perez Ramos

Course: WR 121

Instructor: Tandy Tillinghast

Abstract: This essay is about the challenges I’ve had with learning a new language and refinding my love and skills for my home language. Through my writing, you will read about the negativity that clouded my early education and how I am still actively trying to find myself as a bilingual academic learner and as an American of Mexican descent.

Keywords: Literacy narrative, English/Spanish, language practices

Multi-Genre Essay: Advice for a First Year College Students

Author: Torie Arnold

Course: WR 121

Instructor: William Haas

Abstract:This paper includes various writing pieces to present the overall theme of how the first year writing course is to the reader who is a first year freshman in a fun, engaging, and creative format utilizing different genres.

Keywords: First-year writing, genres, stylized writing, audience

The Math of Family: A Daughter’s Quest for Knowledge

Author: Miriam Herrera Hernández

Course: WR 121

Instructor: Wesley Mathis

Abstract: “The Math of Family: A Daughter’s Quest for Knowledge” is a captivating narrative about a Mexican-American girl’s journey into learning. With themes of encouragement, perseverance, and resilience, this coming-of-age story demonstrates an unwavering commitment to personal growth and academic success. By demonstrating the importance of mathematical literacy in daily life and self-improvement, this essay emphasizes that knowledge is not an innate gift but is earned through hard work and dedication.

Keywords: Literacy narrative, math, English/Spanish, growth mindset

To Switch or To Mesh

Winner of Best Essay Award

Author: Isaiah Limu

Course: WR 122

Instructor: Wesley Mathis

Abstract: For this essay, I wrote about code switching and code meshing, two different practices that we as people use everyday, sometimes unconsciously. The essay is made up of two interviews. I decided to interview my mom and my grandma, because they are the two people that I am closest to in my life. I asked them about the impact that code switching has had on their lives, and I discuss the difference between code switching and code meshing. My main goal of this essay was to convey to the reader why both concepts are essential to everyday communication, and I hope that readers can read the essay and understand why I believe that both should be used but they should be used in certain, appropriate situations.

Keywords: Code switching, code meshing, primary research, writing situations

The Victim Impact Statement: Chanel Miller’s Influence On an Evolving Genre

Winner of Best Essay Award

Author: Julia Davies

Course: WR 122

Instructor: Wesley Mathis

Abstract: Genre analysis of victim impact statements and the influence Chanel Miller had on extending the conventions of the genre’s rhetorical work. Trigger warning: this paper discusses sexual assault.

Keywords: Genre analysis, primary research

A Can of Corn: A Study of the Language of Western Oregon University Softball

Author: Carly Turpen

Course: WR 122

Instructor: Samantha Morgan

Abstract: Whether it be between players or coaches, effective communication is crucial in the game of softball. This study took information from observing and surveying players on the WOU softball team to find that goal setting, positive and clear coaching language, and communication from the dugout and on the field are the forms of language that help the team reach success. More research should be done to get coaches’ points of view in this discourse community.

Keywords: Discourse community, primary research, lexis, communication, softball

“They’re My Friends!” How Pathos Is Used to Create and Maintain Parasocial Relationships

Author: Kira Ryder Morgan

Course: WR 122

Instructor: Wesley Mathis

Abstract: A dive into the world of the South Korean music industry and the deep parasocial relationships formed from it. This essay discusses how K-pop companies persuade fans to feel connected and close to their idols, and how quickly controversy can destroy these parasocial relationships. It analyzes two examples of cancel culture’s effects on the bond between idols and fans.

Keywords: Persuasion, discourse community, cancel culture, relationships