The Final Stretch

As we move into our final class of the semester, especially since the university is transitioning to a Friday schedule next week, it feels unreal to know that today will be my last graduate class. I’ve essentially been in school my entire life, starting in kindergarten and continuing straight through to this point without much interruption. It has been a constant rhythm in my life, shaping my habits and my goals. Taking a step back from that, even temporarily, feels both strange and significant, and it’s bittersweet to know that I’ve reached this point almost at the finish line and getting ready for what’s next in my life.

I’m currently in the process of writing and adding the final touches to Part III. Once Part III is complete, my plan is to move into a full revision and proofreading stage for Parts I and III. From there, I will begin shaping the overall design of this memoir, something I’ve already started exploring through the flipbook idea and by converting the work into a live PDF link. With today’s class centered on design and formatting, it makes me feel more confident and reassured about the timing and direction I’m heading in, especially as things are beginning to wrap up and come together.

Looking forward to seeing you all for our last class together!

Schedule: 

  • 4/21–4/27: Finish Part III. Design and format the book using Pressbook, Flipbook, Canva, WordPress.
  • 4/28–5/5: Last revisions and proofreads. Designing/formatting as needed. 
  • 5/6: Submit all work.

The Final Stretch: Where Everything Comes Together

After my thesis presentation last week, I felt a strong sense of accomplishment and clarity. Being able to visually present my thesis through slides and talk through each part of the project allowed me to step back and really see how far I’ve come. There was something reassuring about watching all the pieces: Part I, Part II, and the developing Part III exist together in one space. It made the process feel real and cohesive, and it reminded me that even when progress feels slow, everything is, in fact, coming together.

Looking ahead, I still have some work to complete for Part III; however, the next phase will require careful revision and close attention to detail, especially as I begin revisiting mainly Part I, since Part II is the electronic literature piece. I’m starting to see how all three sections connect, not only structurally but thematically as well.

With a clearer vision for the project in mind, I created a master document and started shaping the memoir into a book format, carefully arranging each section and positioning key elements where they fit best. Building on the feedback and guidance I received, I also added essential components such as a foreword, table of contents, and a dedication page. I’m beginning to see the structure take form and the project come together, and I’m excited to soon begin designing its digital space as well.

Below is my outline for the next few weeks: 

  • 4/14–4/20: Finish writing Part III & Revise Parts I, II, & III as needed. 
  • 4/21–4/27: Design and format the book using Pressbook, Flipbook, Canva, WordPress
  • 4/28–5/4: Finalize all revisions and edits; submit all work