A Beautiful Moment

Korrin B.

May 1, 2011 - 8:30 PM

The only moment this year that I expect to top this one will occur at approximately 11:30am on May 20 when I finish my thesis defense. However, this one was close to being as glorious. Today, at around 4:00pm, I sent my final thesis copy to the three members of my thesis committee.

After 112 pages of writing, I looked at my computer screen and realized that in front of me was something coherent and meaningful and that I had created it. It was a document that not only analyzed the effectiveness of the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program in Lane County, Oregon at building long-term, sustainable solutions to homelessness, but also one that contained all of my blood, sweat, and tears. I gazed upon it in glory and wonder. It looked like me, smelled like me. I had gently guided and nurtured it to its final stages, all the while letting the experience take me on an incredible journey of self-exploration and existential meaning. I smiled upon it. It was me. I have given birth to a research paper, an honors thesis, and the feeling is unmatched.

My next step is to begin preparing my presentation for my defense. I will have to meet with my advisors to gain a better understanding of all that is expected during this process. Meanwhile, I will await any revisions or suggestions offered to me by my committee. I honestly cannot believe that I am finally this close to finishing. I started this process one year ago and now here I am, nearly done.

I also plan to participate in the UO's Undergraduate Symposium on May 12. This event is being put on to showcase the research being done by undergraduates across campus. I will have a poster in the event. I'm excited because this will give me the opportunity to start talking about my research and will be good practice for my defense.

Now, to celebrate!