Over the course of the semester I struggled to get used to the UNM environment, but gradually I started to analyze what I needed to do and become adaptive.  I felt a little out of place being the only male so every time I came to class I entered into an environment with some anxiety.

My social interaction with my other classmates was very little because I use a style to observe people first before I talk with them, and I don't like wasting conversation in small talk, so before I do say anything I would like to know how the person likes to carry on a conversation and the level of speaking being used.  Having a class once a week greatly hinders my technique of observing before I talk because there can be little left over from what I can remember the week before.

I know that the literature circle project could have went better for myself if I would have identified my problems with the current group I was in and switched to another.  Next time I'll be more readily aware that if the chemistry of your group isn't in balance, it can lead to an explosion.

I was very fortunate to interact with kids in the 8th grade literature circle project.  They provided me with insight into how students their age like to interact and what I would need to do to improve the environment.  There was one student who was really good; I hope that student keeps on the great track to move onward to success.

My teacher was very fair with me in understanding what dilemmas I faced and worked with me to the very end to complete this class.  I borrowed many books from my teacher's personal library and read into some genres I would never give a chance if I passed them by at a bookstore or library.  I feel a little embarrassed to admit, but when I started to read a book like Harry Potter, I was greatly astounded by the great character development and in-depth analysis to the moral fabric of the story.  I was surprised of the anti-hero character Severus Snape, greatly intriguing to read about.  I see why it is so popular.