Drafting the Past Episode 65: Omar Valerio-Jiménez Puts in the Hours
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May 9, 2025 Omar Valerio-Jiménez, a Professor of History at the University of Texas at San Antonio and an associate dean, discusses the journey from engineering to academia. He delves into the impact of collective memories from the U.S.-Mexico War on Mexican American civil rights. The conversation highlights how personal anecdotes enrich historical narratives and shaped his writing process. Omar's innovative work log system and the interplay between family memories and historical context offer valuable insights into crafting meaningful stories. His reflections on mentorship and feedback also inspire aspiring writers.
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Write Mornings, Find Quiet Spaces
- Omar Valerio-Jiménez recommends writing in the morning and adapting to your life changes, like family duties.
- Use quiet, familiar spaces at home for focus, and avoid noisy environments unless necessary.
Engineering Shapes Writing Process
- Omar believes engineering shaped his problem-solving and attention to detail in writing.
- His practice of keeping detailed writing logs and timing sessions reflects an engineer's methodical approach.
Family Story Sparks Identity Inquiry
- Omar Valerio-Jiménez shares a family story about his niece Christy navigating dual identities as Mexican-American.
- This conversation inspired him to explore collective memory's role in shaping identity across generations.
