Final Review Week

What did I do?

This week, I completed my final writing, leaving an extra day to read over one last time. Also, it was a privilege to read two of my incredible peers' work. It is wonderful to experience learning the process alongside two people who I consider to now be partners.

Why was it important?

The completion of writing is important of course because it's the assignment. It's the peer review process that was ultimately both critical and forgiving. I developed understanding from a partner that I have some way still to go, but it was delivered in such a way that it did not seem punitive. We were not afraid to be critical, but I do wan to apologize for any remarks that were offensive... 

Where could I use this again?

If we could have partners for our dissertation... can we??  :o) Developing leading sentences and closing sentences is still not my strong suit, but it's clear now that it is not so difficult to summarize the point. Just read the paragraph and say it. Basically.

Do I see any patterns in what I did?

Patterns... leading and closing sentences, maybe some in between to elaborate and connect even better. So, a little more time to do these things makes the review complete. 

How well did I do?

My strong suit is in the research. My weakness is in diverging rabbit trails... However, as +pj koltnow advised last week: just jot it down in the journal and keep it for later. Citations have greatly improved compared to last semester - There really are not so many different ways to include them. Italicize the volume number-learned that. And then leading and closing sentences. Why is that such a challenge? No more. As +Wanda Terral said, "you've got the meat of the sandwich, just add the slices of bread..." I don't eat sandwiches that often, but it makes sense!

What should I do next?

Next, at least for today, is to read over one last time, check notes from my review meeting with Dr. Weaver, and submit. I'll also take some time to revisit my journal and make any notes about diverging topics... organize the research I already have, and finally, to wish you all the best for the conclusion of the semester.

It has been so great working with this team... I am truly grateful.