Knowing the subject matter for the picture would help. I am wondering if it was composed in a way that is relevant for your class?
You do have some nice colors, especially in the tree off to the right. You have got some good detail in the shadow are, however, in this contrasty light you have to be careful as you will also get some bright (blown out) spots such as the bottom area of grass and the upper right corner.
Just started shooting in Sept? Not a bad start then, keep going.
