LAUSR

ABSTRACT Over the course of my career, I have experienced the thesis in different ways. This reflection paper will relay my encounters with what I am calling “thesis-objects” (to borrow a concept from object relations). I encountered the thesis-objects at different phases of my professional development: when I was a student, a supervisor for Smith MSW students, a PhD applicant, and chair of the Alumni Thesis Award Committee. My relationship with each thesis-object has refined me and granted me new perspective and personal growth. When I was a student, the thesis was a coach helping me develop tools to answer important questions. When I was a supervisor, the thesis was a bridge-builder, strengthening my relationships with supervisees. Then, when I was a PhD applicant, the thesis was a door-opener, providing me means to access PhD opportunities. Now that I am a chair, the thesis is a teacher opening my eyes to new intellectual terrain and pressing social problems.