What I've Learned About the Academic Writing Process.

You know that scary monster in the dark, that turns out to just be a pile of oddly stacked clothes?

That's the writing process for me. It seemed so daunting, and still does at times, but in reality

it is a set of processes, requirements, rules, etc. stacked on top of each other. This class has helped me break that down into smaller, easier to understand pieces.

Speaking of pieces, I've learned to find peace in the process. I've learned so much during this course. It has been one of my favorite graduate classes ever. I find peace and joy in knowing that I have improved and gained knowledge. I also have found peace with the fact that I do not have to know it all or do it all.

Goal Achieved

One of the requirements of this class was to submit a paper to a publication. When I first heard this, I thought, That ugly monster of fear and doubt was rearing it's head again.

This class helped give me more confidence in my writing. Dr. Hunt's positive and supportive feedback was helpful. My peers in the class responding positively to my work was helpful. Dr. Hunt and my peers sharing their processes, edits, rejections, ideas... all of it helped me. I learned how to search for publications to submit to, types of journals and what they commonly accept, and common publication requirements.

My goal to submit to a publication was achieved. Not only that, my book review was accepted by the Journal of Negro Education! I am currently awaiting reviewer edits and I cannot wait until my writing is officially published.

Little Bit by Little Bit

Dr. Hunt shared her method of recording her time spent writing. Some days she did more than others. Some days her focus was on other tasks. This was helpful me because sometimes I do not feel successful if I haven't written several pages in one sitting. I have to remind myself that research, data collection, reading, and organizing are all part of the

process. Also, slowing myself down to effectively do each step has helped make me a

better writer.