Mika Yamamoto

Writers can have the power to create space for communities that are marginalized in society, but this work is never easy. In this class, we will examine the works of writers who have attempted this and analyze the success and cost of such attempts. Our readings will include works by: Esme Weijun Wang, Rupi Kahur, Ryka Aoki, Patsy Mink, and others. We will also utilize SAIC’s amazing resources like the Service Bureau, the Art Institute, the writing center, the diversity department, and Title IX office. In this class, students will exercise their voices and embrace the writing process. They will think of writing beyond what happens on the page.Towards this end, each class begins with mindfulness and connection activities. Students will be required to write weekly reflections, multiple drafts of an essay, and do a class presentation. Students in FYS I should expect to write 15 to 20 pages of formal, revisable writing. Attendance is extremely important and heavily weighted.

In this class, we will discuss the works written by contemporary Asian American writers. As FYS I is a writing class, we will examine these works with the lens of writers. How do these writers create space for themselves and others? Who are they making space for? What problems do they confront? What tools do they use? Our goal is to practice our critical thinking skills as well as our writing skills through studying the works of writers such as: Chin Chin, Grace Lin, Priya Parker, Esme Weijun Wang, Cathy Park Hong, and others. We will also utilize SAIC’s amazing resources like the Service Bureau, the Art Institute, the writing center, the diversity department, and Title IX office. In this class, students will exercise their voices and embrace the writing process. They will think of writing beyond what happens on the page. Students will be required to write weekly reflections, multiple drafts of an argumentative essay of their chosen topic, and do a class presentation. Students in FYS I should expect to write 15 to 20 pages of formal, revisable writing. Attendance is extremely important and heavily weighted.