What it’s like to Lose Papi

Abstract

This essay combines both the genre nuances of a personal essay and academic article. It focuses specifically on the experience of navigating graduate school while the feelings of grief and structural social norms exacerbate the process. In the beginning, the essay first introduces the argument of why grief and mourning are different for minoritized communities through scholarship from Critical Race Theory. Then, the author presents specific scenes from their life that showcases these challenges through three narrative vignettes, followed by a final reflection.