English has always been my favorite and best subject. I love to write and I use writing as an outlet to deal with stress and a way to express my emotions. However, as much as I love writing and English, the idea of writing essays on topics that have no real importance to me is rather undesirable. These essays took up my creative imagination for my entire academic career thus far. That was until I signed up for English 1010 this past semester. At the time I had no idea what the class was going to be about and if the professor was going to be any good; I just knew the course was a requirement and I wanted to get it over with.

After my professor introduced the theme of the course as being about sex, gender, and sexuality I was rather nervous. I had never really thought about myself or the world in terms of these ideas let alone written anything on them. However, after an entire semester of being in such a rather controversial class I can say that I am both a better writer and a much more confident person.

My professor made me believe that my ideas and opinions were both relevant and logical. Before this class I was a really indecisive person. I could never speak my mind or give a logical explanation about my beliefs. Now, I find that my voice is my strongest attribute when it comes to my writing. Though my voice can at times be too powerful, my professor helped me to control my opinions and display my arguments in a logical and coherent manner.

Not only did my professor make me more confident in the classroom, she made me a more confident person in my daily life as well. In a class that focuses on sexuality and expression of oneself I was able to gain a sense of confidence in myself that I never thought imaginable. I have never felt entirely comfortable in my body but now I can say there is no part of me both physically or mentally that I am unsure or unhappy about. This is entirely thanks to my professor. Her charisma and confidence that is so visible from miles away made me aspire to be more secure.

In summary, throughout my entire academic career prior to college I can honestly categorize myself as somewhat of a slacker. Since I was never truly passionate about what I was learning and my teachers were never truly passionate about what they were teaching it was hard to focus and do my work. However, after having a professor like Laura Marks who is so visibly passionate about what she teaches my work ethic has completely changed. She made me want to write essays and read papers that were both fascinating and important to our society.

Laura Marks, thank you for teaching me that it is okay and important to let my voice be heard. Your ethics and class have influenced me more than you can even imagine.