Navigating Harvard College's Expository Writing Courses: A Comprehensive Guide for Prospective Students

Choosing the right course for your academic journey at prestigious institutions like Harvard College requires careful consideration. For prospective students aiming to enhance their writing skills, particularly through the Expository Writing 20 (Expos 20) program, this guide offers key insights and tips to help you select the most suitable course for your needs.

Understanding the Course Structure

Expos 20 at Harvard College is specifically designed to help students refine and develop their writing abilities across various styles and genres. To make an informed choice, start by understanding the course structure and objectives:

Focus on Writing: Identify if the course emphasizes analytical, creative, or persuasive writing, and choose one that suits your goals. Course Themes: Each Expos 20 class comes with its own unique themes or topics. Carefully review these to find a course that aligns with your interests and goals.

Researching Instructors

The teaching style and expertise of your instructor can greatly impact your learning experience. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Teaching Style: Seek reviews or discuss with peers to gauge the instructors' teaching methodologies. Some instructors prioritize peer review, while others focus on personalized feedback. Instructor Interests: Choose a section taught by an instructor whose research interests overlap with yours. This alignment can enhance both the learning experience and your understanding of the course material.

Considering Your Writing Goals

To make the most of your time at Harvard, reflecting on your specific writing goals is crucial:

Writing Focus: Determine which writing skills you want to develop, such as argumentation, research, or clarity, and select a course that aligns with these goals. Future Courses: Think about how the writing skills you gain in Expos 20 can support your future academic endeavors, particularly in disciplines that require strong written communication.

Reading Course Descriptions Carefully

Understanding the course content and requirements is essential to make the right choice. Pay close attention to the following:

Assignments and Readings: Some courses may heavily emphasize creative writing, while others focus on analytical essays. Assess which type of assignments and readings align with your interests and abilities. Workload: Consider the required workload and ensure it fits with your overall schedule. This will help you manage your time effectively.

Attending Information Sessions

Engaging in information sessions and speaking directly with faculty and current students can provide invaluable insights:

QA with Faculty: Attend any available information sessions or office hours to ask faculty about course expectations and share your questions. Current Student Insights: Talk to students who have taken the course to gain firsthand insights and learn from their experiences.

Applying Early

Securing a spot in your preferred section is essential, so apply early:

Registration Timing: Stay updated on registration dates and apply early to avoid missing out on your top choices.

Being Open-Minded

While it's natural to have preferences, remaining flexible can lead to exciting new discoveries:

Flexibility: While you may lean towards a specific course, be open to exploring others that might enrich your academic journey or expose you to new writing styles.

Preparing for the Course

To get a head start and make the most of your Expos 20 experience, prepare yourself thoroughly:

Pre-Course Reading: If the course recommends pre-reading, complete these readings to familiarize yourself with the content. Writing Samples: Submit a writing piece that best represents your abilities and themes from the course description.

By following these detailed guidelines, you can increase your chances of successfully selecting and applying to a Harvard Expos 20 class that not only meets but exceeds your academic and professional writing goals.