12 Courses Down 7 To Go... #doctoralpursuit

Another semester has come to an end. I am writing to update my progress, not only for any readers I might have; but also for myself. I can tell I am nearing the end because I kept getting the question: "How many semesters do you have left?" I really could not answer that and I felt that, that was a question that I needed to know the answer to. So, I looked it up. As of an hour ago when I submitted my last assignment for my Reading 640 class, These are my reflections so far.

I have taken (and passed with all A's so far) 12 classes. I have gone through learning to write professionally (the reason for this blog) to process writing which is the theory behind the process. I have learned about content area literacy, culturally appropriate literature and pedagogy, assessment and the learner, and reading courses that taught me reading theories, processes, and research. I continue to say that I am learning and applying what I am learning to my work, but; I am also very fortunate to say that I have also been able to begin the process of writing my dissertation proposal. That is a very big deal for me because I can see how all of the course work I have completed so far can and does relate to everything I do in my doctoral pursuit. 

I have 7 classes, that's 3 semesters left before I take my comprehensive exams and begin the process of writing my dissertation Which is another (possible) 12 semester hours, These courses go at my pace so, that will be the true test. I will have no specific date or time to attend class, no specific date that assignments are due, and I will have those 4 semesters to write, conduct my research, and defend my research dissertation. I have had a very hard time this semester staying and keeping focus on reading and course work. This will be the biggest test yet. I am excited about the challenges that are coming. This break will be a good time for me to get some reading and writing done at my own pace so that I can get back into the habit of writing everyday.

Thank you for reading...

Pearl Dean Garden

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