Thank you...

It's been a very hectic, yet satisfying weekend. After about two years, I finally made it through graduate school on Friday, May 12, 2006. I went up the stage, bent, and finally they hooded me. I am relieved. I feel that the weight (well, part of it) has been lifted from my shoulder.

Thoughout my life and graduate school journey, there have been some people who have provided me with love, supports, and encouragements.

To my father, Andy S. Hendra, who has always given me good advise, inputs, and encouragements. He has been my role model since I was young. He has guided and pushed me to have the confidence with what I am doing. His perseverance and hard work have enabled me to pursue my education in the United States. He is a man that I deeply love and respect.

To my mother, Netty M. Hendra, who has always encouraged me in many ways. I would not be here today, if it was not because of her endless prayers, patience, and love. She is a woman that I deeply love and admire.

To my precious sisters, Jennifer and Melissa Hendra, who have always supported me. They have always been there even through my darkest hours. Words cannot describe how much I thank God for having both of them with me in Wichita.

It is my hope and prayers that my achievements will make my family proud, because they deserve much of the credit for the person I have become.

I would also like to acknowledge the individual who, more than any person, helped me to make these (thesis and thesis and thesis) possible. My committee chairperson Dr. Patricia L. Dooley dedicated enormously absurd amount of time to the completion of the thesis. Thank you for giving up your days, nights, and weekends and holding my hand through this process. Thank you for your patience and words of encouragement. You are more than an advisor to me. Thank you, Dr. Dooley!

I would also like to thank my other committee members, Dr. Amy Mattson-Lauters and Dr. Jodie L. Hertzog. You all provided me with new perspectives. Thank you for your time and advise.

On a more personal note, I would also like to recognize other individuals who helped and supported me through my masters program. To my fellow GTA/officemate/research buddy/girlfriend Jasmine Tan, thank you! You have encouraged and challenged me to do better.

To my brothers at “The Mission,” Abrizal, Hendry Gunawan, Tze-Hoong Tan, Pierre Hendrawan, Vinsensius Tanoto, Tony Ngansop, Nic Huang, and Nikki Yodo.

To my pastors and mentors Karl and Vicki Timmons, and Brad and Jamie Simmons.

To my dearest girlfriend Niki Chow. You've been with me through my ups and downs for the past few months. Thanks for your ears, advise, times, and prayers. Those really mean the world for me.

A simple thank you will never be enough to acknowledge what all of you have done in my life. Thank you for your earnest prayers. Thank you for helping me distribute the surveys. Thank you for those IHOP, Starbucks, and Newton’s Doughnuts moments. Above all, thank you for being wonderful people in my life. Without all of you, I wouldn’t have made it this far.

I love you all very much!



"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"
Phil 4:13