ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
As an international student, far from my family and friends, I found writing a
dissertation to be a long and lonely process. I am in debt to the many individuals who
have helped me to get through the dissertation writing process. I am especially grateful
for the time my committee members—Dr. Ilia Rodriguez, Dr. Brad Hall, Dr. Janet
Cramer, and Dr. Ricky Allen—have dedicated to this project. Their willingness to listen
to my ideas, provide guidance, and inspire me has been invaluable. My special thanks
goes to Ilia Rodriguez, who shared many thoughts, read many drafts, and mentored me.
The ideas that went into this research project came from the inspiration,
discussions, and encouragement I received from my professors who taught the classes I
took at the University of New Mexico. I especially thank Dr. Jan Schuetz, Dr. Karen
Foss, and Dr. Jack Condon. Their courses and knowledge influenced my research, and
will continue to inspire my thoughts. Laura Dvorak and David Jeppesen spent hours
going through my drafts, polishing the language and making editorial suggestions. Their
assistance was invaluable.
I truly appreciate the encouragement from friends whose words, hugs, and
supports have driven me to think, write, and finish. I particularly want to thank Elizabeth
Root for her enduring friendship and her unlimited words of encouragement. She has
made my experience at UNM memorable and rewarding. I appreciate Matt Petrunia for
his special warmth and "You can do it, Anchalee" attitude. I thank Jonathan Adams for
his confidence in me as well as his patience while I was going through this journey. My
appreciation goes out to Melissa Curtin, Adolfo Garcia, Divya Sreenivas, Bhavana
Upadhyaya and to a group of Thai friends that include Tina, Jan, and Gick. Their
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friendship kept me connected to my culture, helped me to laugh, filled my stomach with
good food, and made sure I was physically and mentally healthy through all these
months.
Finally, my family is the most important driving force for me to pursue higher
education and finish. My father, mother, aunts, sister, and brothers are always in my
heart. Their continuing supports have kept me writing, improving, and living. Through
their love and support this project became very meaningful to me because it gave me a
deeper understanding of my country, family, and home.