A Dissertation by GRACE HUI-CHIN LIN Submitted to the Office of ...

accomplishment.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I truly appreciate the people who helped me reach this academic
First of all, I appreciate my dissertation chair, Dr. Patricia J. Larke, for her
continuing support, and insightful comments throughout my research. During my
studying with her, she was patient with my delays and errors, which inspired me to
devote my love to my students in the future as she has educated me. I truly felt thankful
for her kindness and love, and respect her precious leading which spiritually bolstered my
motivation and my courage to complete the requirements for graduation. Dr. Larke made
my life change. I think that Dr. Larke is going to be an excellent model in my academic
career in my future in Taiwan.
My thankfulness is extended to my committee members. I am grateful to Dr.
Zohreh Eslami-Rasekh for her professional contributions to my knowledge growth in the
fields of English as a second language. Dr. Shari Kendall directed my first two
international publications in English, which made me have a stronger faith on pursuing
my academic career. Dr. LaVerne Young Hawkins’ praise of my presentations made all
the difference in my graduate study experience at Texas A&M University. I felt thankful
for her kindness and generosity. I was fortunate to be supported by my committee
members.
I thank my committee, colleagues and two classes of students in Tunghai
University, who endured many aspects of study that were challenging and engaging.
Finally, I thank all of the faculties and classmates at Texas A&M University, who helped
me complete my research efficiently. This dissertation is for all of them. Thank you very
much.
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