As part of my academic work at university I have had to reflect on my work. This is something I have little experience with as my previous academic studies at college was more hands on working with animals at the on-site zoo and less structured writing. When I first started doing academic writing I struggled with writing in a more formal academic style, but I had a good handle on proper referencing as I had some experience with the Harvard system previously.  (Ryan, 2011)

Writing reflections on different topics throughout the year has helped me improve and understand reflective writing to a greater degree. I have learnt to not only reflect on the positives but also to identify weaknesses and potential improvements that I have made or can be made in the future. For example, my reflection the mock OSPE I identified an issue I had working with smaller dogs and thought up a solution, which has proved helpful.

Looking back and reflecting on my work will be an important life-long skill going forward with my education as well as professionally after completion of the degree. This is a widely accepted and known way of improving one’s knowledge, ability and critical thinking, not just in my writing but in all aspects of life.

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Ryan, M. (2011). Improving reflective writing in higher education: a social semiotic perspective. Teaching in Higher Education, 16(1), pp.99-111.