All posts by Jenise Perez

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Thesis-in-Progress Presentation

This week I had the opportunity to present to my peers my thesis-in-progress, marking an important milestone in my academic journey. As a graduate student working on a memoir that centers around my sister’s near-catastrophic car accident, the process of developing and refining my thesis has been a deeply personal and challenging endeavor. But this week, it all came together in a way that feels like a significant confirmation of the path I’ve been on.

During the presentation, I shared the research I’ve gathered so far, including the personal stories, medical research, and psychological aspects surrounding the trauma of the accident. I also outlined the methods I’ve been using to shape my writing process, such as freewriting, reflective journaling, and integrating both my sister’s and my own perspectives into the narrative. It was incredibly rewarding to explain how these elements are coming together to form a cohesive story.

What stood out most was the feedback I received from both my peers and Dr. Zamora after the presentation. Their thoughts on what I’ve written so far, and the suggestions for improvement, were invaluable. It wasn’t just about hearing that I was on the right track; the feedback felt like a confirmation that I’m not alone in this process. It gave me the encouragement I needed to keep pushing forward, knowing that the work I’m doing has depth and that I am making real progress.

It’s easy to get caught up in the challenges, balancing school, work, and life in general but moments like these help put everything into perspective. The affirmation from others, especially from those who have a deep understanding of writing and storytelling, was exactly the push I needed. Moving forward, I’m excited to continue refining the memoir, taking into account the feedback I received, and diving deeper into the research and giving some more context of Denise’s character. Each step feels like a little victory, and this week was definitely one of those moments where the effort and hard work felt validated.

In the end, the presentation wasn’t just about showing what I’ve done so far; it was a reminder of the larger purpose of this project: to honor my sister’s story, and in doing so, create something meaningful that might resonate with others.

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Progress Snapshot

Last week’s class was engaging as we dove into the design and formatting aspects of our projects. Understanding how structure and presentation can shape a narrative has been fascinating and motivating as I continue building my thesis.

While the idea of digitizing my thesis and creating a website is exciting and appeals to a modern audience, I am more drawn to the nature of creating a physical print copy. There’s something about holding a book in your hands. It’s a tangible piece of work that encapsulates a story. Designing a physical version of this memoir feels like a way to honor my sister’s story and create a lasting keepsake for my family and anyone who reads it.

I spent some time in the library database this week, focusing on finding articles to develop my thesis further. Using the research techniques we’ve been learning, I uncovered some promising sources that I’m excited to incorporate into the narrative. These resources feel like the missing pieces I need to add depth and context to the memoir.

In addition to research, I am finishing up the book, Transforming Trauma, which has been an incredible resource. The insights I’m gaining from this book are helping me better frame the themes of trauma and resilience within my sister’s story.

On top of everything, I’ve also been working on my thesis presentation for class this week. Balancing research, reading, and writing has been a lot, but each task contributes to the overall progress. I’m building the foundation piece by piece and it’s rewarding to see the work slowly take shape. While it’s a process watching it take shape, it is deeply fulfilling.

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Unpacking the Past: Part 1 Interview

​​In this blog I’d like to share my reflections on my interview with my sister. As you may remember from my last post, this interview was a key step in gathering the material I need for this memoir. I’m considering this part 1 of the interview process since I kept it brief and limited our conversation to just an hour to avoid overwhelming either one of us. To be honest, it wasn’t easy. Reliving some of the memories of her accident and the aftermath was incredibly tough, not just for her, but for me as well. It was important to me to approach this gradually, as the subject matter is heavy and emotional.

But despite the heaviness of the conversation, I believe we made it through with a sense of strength and purpose. It was emotional at times, and there were moments when it felt like we might not be able to continue, but we pushed through. There were tears, of course, but there was also a sense of healing in talking openly about what happened.

After reviewing the notes from the interview, I’m feeling optimistic. I believe I have something to work with. The details my sister shared with me will be valuable as I continue to piece together her story and the impact of the accident on both of our lives. It’s going to take time and careful thought but I feel like I’m on the right track.

I’m also reminded that writing about such personal experiences isn’t just about telling a story, it’s about honoring the journey, the pain, and the growth that comes from it. It’s about sharing something that can resonate with others, helping them feel seen and understood, too.

Thank you for reading and following me on this journey. I’m excited to continue working on this memoir and to see where it leads. Stay tuned for more updates.

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Building the Squares of the Quilt

I really appreciated our library visit with Craig last week, it was both informative and meaningful. I learned valuable tips and techniques for finding information in the Kean database, which I’m confident will be useful for the research and literature review portion of my thesis. This week I wrote some more and focused on finding more articles, applying Craig’s suggestion from class to use the PsycArticles database, which is ideal for trauma-related topics, one of the key themes of the memoir. Another great recommendation he gave me for PTSD-related articles was to explore the EBSCOhost database.

Another useful trick I learned from Craig was using the * symbol when searching for articles in the database, known as truncation. Truncation lets you search for a word that may have multiple endings. The symbol is typically an * placed where the word’s spelling might vary. For example, “educat*” can help locate articles on “education,” “educating,” or “educators.” With all of this information, I found a few more articles to add to the “buckets” of my literature review. 

I’m working on different parts of my thesis; from researching, writing the story, and preparing for interviews with my sister and parents. Dr. Zamora said it perfectly last week when she said I’m “building the blocks/squares to the quilt.” That analogy has stuck with me. I had been feeling scattered and worried about not having the story fully mapped out, especially without having the chapters clearly defined. I’m still uncertain about the exact order of the story and how much each chapter will contain, but I know that with time, the chapters will eventually come together seamlessly.

Another really good idea, Dr. Zamora suggested I start the memoir with an autoethnography about myself… So I spent last weekend reading some examples to help me get some inspiration.  I’ve also worked on the questions I would like to ask my sister during our interview, which I’ll paste below… I would love to hear your thoughts and/or suggestions on the questions and how I can better them so that I ensure I get the information/details needed for the story. Let me know your thoughts!

  • Can you tell me about what you remember from the day of the accident? 
  • What were some of your initial thoughts or feelings in the moments after? 
  • How did it feel when you first realized the severity of your injuries? 
  • Did anyone share the news with you directly, or did you sense it on your own?
  • What was going through your mind during those first few days and weeks of recovery?
  • Can you describe what it was like going through physical therapy? What were some of the hardest parts for you?
  • What was it like knowing that I was taking care of Daniela during this period? Did it bring you any sense of comfort?
  • How would you say this experience has shaped you as a person? Do you feel that you’ve grown or changed in ways you didn’t expect?
  • What role did hope, faith, or any specific beliefs play in helping you through this journey?
  • When you reflect on everything you’ve gone through, what stands out most to you about the recovery experience?
  • What are you most hopeful for? How do you see yourself moving forward and continuing to embrace life?
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Embracing the Process

This week, I made some progress by continuing to write and piece together different sections of the story. One thing that’s been on my mind is where to incorporate my sister’s experience of the accident into the story. I was thinking of maybe making it a possible introduction to the memoir? I’m hopeful that it’ll fit in seamlessly, but I trust that it will come together in time. I also had the idea of including a letter to my sister at the end of the memoir. I haven’t written it yet, but it seems like an interesting way to conclude. I’d love to hear everyone’s thoughts on this!

After last week’s class discussion on thesis organization, I realized I could refine my process a bit more. I had everything saved in a Google Doc within a single folder, but I decided to take it further. I spent some time reorganizing and creating sub-folders within the main folder that houses my entire thesis project. Now, each section has its own dedicated space, from notes, research, the thesis itself, chapter titles, pictures, etc…making it easier to manage and track my progress. It’s a simple adjustment, but it’s already made my workflow much more efficient.

I also use my phone for reminders, setting alerts for tasks like writing/editing, research, or revisiting a section. Having these reminders pop up keeps me accountable and ensures I don’t overlook anything important. Between my digital organization and the phone reminders, I’ve found a system that really helps me stay on top of things and make steady progress.

For my literature review, I’ve found two more research articles through Kean’s database that I think will be helpful for my thesis. I’m excited about our next class and upcoming research presentation at the Library next week. It’ll be a great, much-needed, refresher for me on how to navigate resources more efficiently and find what I need faster.

In addition to the articles I’m gathering for my literature review, which focus on the trauma aspect of a cervical injury, I also want to explore themes of healing and self-discovery. I’ve done some research through the database, but I haven’t come across anything particularly useful for that part of my thesis. So, I started looking into books on trauma and self-healing, and I found Transforming Trauma by Dr. James Gordon. In his decades of firsthand experience, Gordon emphasizes that trauma is something we’ll all encounter at some point, but he also believes we all have the capacity to heal ourselves. He talks about how, despite the devastation trauma can cause, it can also open us up to deeper understanding, greater purpose, and even more love. I think this perspective will be really valuable for the healing component of my thesis.

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Life Lately

Life has been quite busy lately between work, school, and personal life. My father recently had surgery, which has been a big focus for me and my family. I’ve been able to spend some time with him, and we’ve had meaningful conversations. One moment that stands out was when we saw a commercial of a person doing occupational therapy. It reminded me of my sister’s accident, which feels like it happened just yesterday.

It’s hard to believe that on October 21, 2024, it will be three years since that day—a day that completely changed the course of my family’s life. Dealing with these emotions has been challenging, especially while working on my thesis. For those who don’t know, I’m writing a memoir about my sister, focusing on the accident and its impact on my family.

I’m excited to share that I recently also had a conversation with my sister, and she has agreed to give me a piece that she wrote during the time of the accident. I think it will be an amazing addition to the memoir, offering her own perspective and words from that period. It feels like a crucial piece to include.

Currently, I’m still in the discovery phase, gathering memories, conducting family interviews, doing research—particularly about her C3-C7 neck fracture, and piecing everything together.

Progress, no matter how small, adds up over time.

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Finding Inspiration

A few weeks ago, I picked up a book called The Story of My Life, filled with a diverse range of writing prompts designed to write about personal reflection. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I hoped it would give me some structure and inspiration as I work through the more difficult parts of my memoir. It has turned out to be exactly what I needed.

The prompts have been incredibly useful in helping me free write and discover new ideas about my sister’s story and mine. I feel that when you’re so close to a story, it’s easy to miss the smaller moments that make it whole. But I was meant to buy this book. Perfect timing. I picked it up casually grocery shopping at Walmart on a Sunday evening. This new book has been a tool in helping me reconnect with memories and emotions tied with my sister and our shared experiences together.

Unlocking New Details

I’ve been surprised by how much I’ve been able to uncover with these prompts. Each question seems to push me in a new direction, helping me recall specific moments I had forgotten, or hadn’t realized were so important. For example, one prompt asked me to describe a moment in my life when I felt both joy and sorrow at the same time. That led me to write about the time I saw and recorded my sister taking her first steps two weeks after the accident, a bittersweet moment that I hadn’t planned to explore/write just yet, but now feels central to the story.

This book is not just helping me organize the facts and events, but it’s also pushing me to explore the emotions behind them. It’s making me look at the little things: our conversations and how we always support each other through difficult times. It’s not just about the big events, it’s about the little moments, the emotions that accompanied them, and the impact they had on both of us. The prompts have given me a new sense of clarity and focus as I move forward with the memoir.

I’m also starting to think about the kind of research that will help deepen my understanding of the themes I want to explore. Since my memoir revolves around my sister, our family, and the impact of the accident on our lives, I need to go beyond just personal reflections and memories. Researching grief, trauma, and resilience; particularly how these themes play out within families will be essential for adding depth to my writing.

As I continue to develop my thesis, I’m realizing how important it is to delve deeper into certain areas of research to strengthen the narrative. In addition to exploring themes of grief, trauma, and resilience, I would like to also research the specifics of my sister’s injury: C1-C3 neck vertebrae fracture. Understanding the medical and emotional implications of such a severe injury will be crucial for capturing the reality of her experience, as well as how it affected our family dynamics.

By studying the medical aspects of spinal injuries, I hope to provide more context around her recovery and the challenges we faced. This research will not only inform the memoir but also help me approach the story with more accuracy. Moreover, it will allow me to explore the long-term physical and emotional impacts of such trauma, which are vital to understanding the deeper layers of our journey through this life-altering event.

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In the Works…

The Beginnings of My Thesis Project:

Hi all! For those who know me, whether through past classes or personal conversations, you’ve likely heard me talk about my sister and the tragic car accident that changed our lives. It’s a story I’ve carried with me for a long time, and now, in the midst of my thesis project, I find myself ready to explore it in a way I never have before. The decision to write a memoir about my sister wasn’t an easy one, but the process of discovering this idea felt both inevitable and necessary.

The Seeds of the Memoir

When I first began thinking about potential thesis topics, my first focus was on areas directly related to my professional background, particularly themes tied to my current role in being a paralegal. Yet, there was this persistent pull toward something more personal—something raw, intimate, and transformative. As I reflected on my experiences, I realized that my sister’s story, and by extension, my own, deserved to be told.

This was not just a moment of personal reckoning, but a turning point in my creative process. I needed to dig deep, beyond the academic and professional, to something that I felt was at the core of my being. The accident that almost took my sister’s life forever shaped the person I am today. But, more importantly, it defined the way I understood loss, resilience, and healing.

Entering the Discovery Phase

Once I made the decision to write about my sister, the real work began—rediscovering memories, feelings, and events I hadn’t fully processed before. I knew that writing a memoir would mean revisiting painful moments, but I also knew that it would offer a chance for reflection and, perhaps, closure.

During this discovery phase, I started by mapping out the key moments in our relationship—before and after the accident. The process was, and still is, emotionally taxing. It’s not just about writing a story; it’s about reliving one. There are times when I sit in my kitchen table and stare at a blank page, unsure of how to give life to something so personal. But then, memories flood back—her smile, her laugh, her essence. That’s when I realize this memoir is not just about the accident. It’s about her life, and my journey through grief and healing.

The Power of Reflection

While reflecting on the events leading up to the accident is difficult, there’s also a deep sense of purpose in this process. I am learning not only about my sister but also about myself. How did her life and loss shape my decisions? How did it guide my career and the paths I’ve chosen since?

This reflection has brought up many questions, and in some ways, I don’t yet have all the answers. But I’ve come to understand that this thesis will be a living project. As I write, I continue to discover new layers of meaning in the memories I once buried or tried to forget. And through that discovery, I’m finding a voice that feels authentic and true to our shared experience.

Moving Forward

I’m still in the early stages of writing this memoir, and the path ahead feels daunting. But there’s a certain freedom in embracing this challenge. Writing about my sister’s life is both an act of love and remembrance. It’s also an exploration of how we survive loss and the ways in which our stories, painful as they are, need to be told.

This thesis project will likely evolve as I go deeper into the writing process. I expect there will be moments of frustration, of deep sadness, but also moments of joy as I rediscover parts of my sister that I thought had faded with time. Writing this memoir is not only a way of honoring the impact she has had on my life, but also a chance for me to reflect and grow. It’s about preserving the connection we still share and celebrating her life in a way that gives voice to both our journeys.

student blogs

Quick Life Update!

Most recent hike Stairway to Heaven – Vernon Twp, NJ

This summer brought significant changes, both in my professional life and in my personal connection with nature. After being promoted to paralegal and head of the Worker’s Compensation department at the law firm, I found myself facing a new set of challenges, from more demanding deadlines to a steeper learning curve. While it was thrilling to take on these new responsibilities for being recognized for my hard work, it also required navigating the unknown. To balance the intensity of this transition, I made it a point to spend more time outdoors, hiking along scenic trails and enjoying the serenity of the beach. These moments in nature provided the clarity and reset I needed to manage the pressures of my new role.

Navigating these changes required more than just technical skills; it called for a shift in mindset. I had to learn to delegate effectively, manage my time with precision, and maintain my well-being amid increased pressure. Balancing work and personal life took on a new dimension, and it was in this demanding environment that I began to second-guess my decision to return to school this semester.

I’m faced with the question many of us face: How do I juggle a full-time job, part-time school, family commitments, and a social life? It’s a daunting task, and the thought of managing all these responsibilities simultaneously has been overwhelming at times.

In the midst of this, I’ve found myself questioning whether I can truly handle everything on my plate. The doubt is real, and the fear of burnout is tangible. Yet, there’s also a part of me that’s deeply grateful for this season of growth. The challenges I’ve faced have been profound learning experiences, and they’ve equipped me with new skills and insights that I can bring into my studies and beyond.

Even though I’m feeling drained, I’m also incredibly grateful. This period of intense growth has taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability. It’s made me more aware of my own strengths and limitations and has shown me that I can handle more than I initially thought.

Returning to grad school after such a transformative summer feels like stepping into a new phase of my educational journey. The skills I’ve honed at work—like strategic thinking, effective communication, and time management—are all assets that will enhance my academic performance. And while the balancing act will be challenging, it’s also an opportunity to apply what I’ve learned in a practical setting. 

I don’t have a definitive thesis topic in mind just yet, but I’m optimistic that I’ll develop one in the coming weeks. As I delve deeper into the coursework and engage with available resources and discussions, I expect a clearer direction to take shape. Exploring different ideas and conducting early research should help pinpoint a specific area of interest. I’m excited about the possibilities and committed to finding a topic that aligns with both my academic and professional background, while also making a meaningful contribution to the field. I’m eager to discover a topic that resonates with me and to work toward a thesis that reflects my growth and aspirations.

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Let’s play a game…. Unraveling Poetry

(An Experimental Piece)

Welcome aboard Poetry Quest, where words become your compass and poetry is the map! In this game, you’ll embark on a journey through the vast seas of language, exploring different poetic forms and unlocking the mysteries of verse. Are you ready to set sail and discover the wonders that await?

Objective: To complete each level by solving word puzzles and creating poetry that fits the given prompt. As you progress, you’ll unlock new challenges and poetic forms to explore.

Level 1: Rhyme Riddles

In this level, you’ll encounter rhyming riddles that describe common objects or concepts. Your task is to decipher the riddle and write a short poem using the clues provided. Be sure to include words that rhyme with the given clues to unlock the next level!

Example Riddle:

I’m tall and green, with leaves so wide,

I sway in the breeze, with grace and pride.

My trunk is strong, my branches high,

In forests deep, I touch the sky.

—>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Level 2: Acrostic Adventure

In this level, you’ll be challenged to create an acrostic poem using a given word or phrase. Each line of your poem should begin with the corresponding letter of the word or phrase. Get creative and see how many unique acrostic poems you can compose!

Example Word: SUNSHINE

S pirits lifted by your golden glow,

U nderneath your warmth, we grow.

N ature’s canvas painted bright,

S parkling rays fill the day and night.

H earts are warmed by your embrace,

I lluminating every space.

N estled in your light, we find,

E ternal joy and peace of mind.

—>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Level 3: Haiku Harmony

In this level, you’ll delve into the world of haiku poetry. Your challenge is to write a haiku inspired by the given theme or image. Remember, a haiku consists of three lines with a 5-7-5 syllable pattern. Let your imagination soar as you capture the essence of the moment in just a few words!

Example Theme: Spring Blossoms

Cherry blossoms bloom,

Petals drift on gentle breeze,

Nature’s silent song.

—>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Level 4: Sonnet Solace

Prepare to tackle the Sonnet Solace challenge! Craft a sonnet following the traditional 14-line structure with iambic pentameter. Explore themes of love, loss, or beauty as you weave together intricate rhyme schemes and deep sentiments.

Example Opening Lines:

In twilight’s embrace, the day takes flight,

As shadows lengthen and stars ignite.

—>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Thank you for completing Poetry Quest! We hope you enjoyed this wordplay adventure and discovered the joy of poetry along the way. Keep exploring, keep writing, keep creating, and let your words carry you to new horizons!