I’ve learned that communicating technical and professional information is just as crucial as mastering engineering concepts one covers in Viterbi. Writing 340 at USC, a required course to graduate focuses on enhancing critical thinking, reading, and writing skills, and is an essential skill to be successful in the world. But my experience with WRIT 340 was anything but typical—it was global. Last year, I had the unique opportunity to take this course through a fall early start study abroad program in Tokyo, Japan, an experience that has significantly shaped my overall engineering experience at USC.
Tokyo seamlessly blends ancient tradition with cutting-edge technology and was the perfect location for a course centered on technical communication. Over the two weeks, I, alongside other Viterbi engineering students, immersed myself in this vibrant city, navigating its transportation systems, exploring its food markets, and engaging with Japanese cultural heritage. But beyond the cultural immersion, this experience was about more than just sightseeing—it was an opportunity that allowed me to enhance my communication skills in a global context.
WRIT 340 is designed to build on the foundations laid in WRIT 150, with a strong emphasis on the professional, public, and academic aspects of our respective fields. For engineering students like myself, this means learning to produce precise technical documents—reports, proposals, and memoranda—that effectively serve diverse audiences, from industry experts to the general public.
In Tokyo, the course took on a unique flavor. We weren’t just learning in a classroom; we were constantly applying our skills in real-world situations. Whether it was drafting technical descriptions of the intricate Japanese manufacturing processes we observed or preparing presentations on the sustainability practices we learned about, every assignment had a direct connection to the world around us. One of the most significant aspects of WRIT 340 is its emphasis on the ethical issues that accompany our disciplines. As future engineers, we are not just responsible for designing and implementing solutions; we must also consider the broader implications of our work. In Tokyo, this meant engaging with the ethical considerations of technology and industry in a global context.
My WRIT 340 experience in Tokyo was more than just a course; it was an eye-opening experience that enriched my academic and personal growth. It taught me the importance of clear, ethical communication in engineering and gave me life-long relationships that I hold near to my heart. As I continue my studies and career, I carry many memories and a village of people with me, ready to tackle the challenges of the engineering field with confidence and integrity.
For anyone considering WRIT 340, especially in a global context, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s an experience that expands your horizons and pushes you to discover the world and engineering global context in a new light that just being in the classroom cannot fulfill. 
