So, I've been on my grind. My common response to the status of my academic career is: "I'm trying to write my way to graduation". And that's exactly what I've been doing.
For the past few weeks I've tackled the sections of my literature review. This part of my paper makes up the bulk of chapter two and involves me discussing all the research I've read on my topic, synthesizing what this literature says, articulating how my proposed study fits into what has already been said, and showing how my research has significance in the profession and in the world.
It's been an arduous journey of reading, writing, and rewriting...and never-ending cycles of repeating this three stage process.
I've been proud of myself for pushing to the limits; balancing my personal goals for my dissertation with my responsibilities as a teaching assistant, and my other work. There have been many hard and long nights, but hey, that's what I'm here for. Right?
Needless to say it's been busy. In fact, it's been so busy I forgot to stop and tell you all about the fact that I had another birthday!!! Yup, officially moving along in these thirties.
I celebrated at home with family, Lawrence, and friends, which was a lot of fun. I had two cakes, a full body massage, and a play date with my momma, the other birthday girl. We went vintage shopping and snacking around Park Slope. It was a perfect way to bring in my new year.
And now I'm back in the habit. On the public bus preparing my last minute lecture notes and excited to hand in my second draft of this second chapter.
There's definitely lots more to come, but for now I'll leave you with this:
Wherever you are in your life, just keep pushing steadfastly in the direction of your dreams.
No matter what, just keep pushing.
And, Oh yeah, my article is finally in print. Check it out via the link below, page 50: http://www.uh.edu/socialwork/_docs/phdprogram/perspectives/Fall2013.pdf
Until next time.
#strive
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