The Multifaceted Life of Dr. Julie Benesh: Writer, Poet, and Academic
Dr. Julie Benesh is a woman of many talents, seamlessly blending her passions for creative writing and psychology into a successful and inspiring career. Her background as department chair at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and her recently published poetry collection, “About Time,” showcase her ability to excel in both academic and artistic domains.
“About Time,” a collection of poems that explores the human relationship with time, showcases Benesh’s unique perspective as both a psychologist and a writer. The collection, published by Cathexis Northwest Press, is an embodiment of Benesh’s love for poetry and her dedication to the craft. As the publisher notes, her work “maps a tender cartography of memory, loss, and the immutable presence of time.”
Dr. Julie Benesh’s journey as a writer began long before her academic career took off. With a Bachelor’s degree in English from Grinnell College and a Master of Fine Arts in Writing from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Benesh honed her writing skills early on. As she continued her education, Benesh obtained a Ph.D. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, demonstrating her commitment to balancing both the arts and the sciences.
Dr. Julie Benesh’s diverse range of interests and experiences is evident in her body of work. As a skilled poet, her creative pieces have been published in numerous literary magazines, including Tin House, The Florida Review, and Best American Poetry. In parallel, her academic pursuits are well-represented through scholarly articles featured in reputable journals. This confluence of artistic and scientific achievements highlights her ability to excel in both domains.
In addition to her own writing, Benesh is an advocate for the literary community. She serves as a faculty member for Writing Workshops, an organization dedicated to offering writing classes, seminars, and manuscript consultations to aspiring writers. Her dedication to teaching and mentoring up-and-coming writers is evident in her work with Writing Workshops, as she helps others find their voice and develop their skills.
As department chair at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Benesh’s unique combination of creative writing and psychology expertise enables her to offer interdisciplinary perspectives to the students. Her background, which includes extensive experience in organizational consulting and executive coaching, further exemplifies her ability to apply psychological principles to real-world situations, enriching the educational experience of those under her guidance.
When asked about the inspiration behind “About Time,” Benesh shared, “I wanted to explore how time is always with us, shaping our lives and experiences, but also how it can be both a source of comfort and disquiet.” This introspective approach to her writing reflects her background in psychology, as she delves into the intricate and often emotional aspects of our relationship with time.
In an interview with Writing Workshops, Benesh revealed that her favorite part of the creative process is “the feeling of being transported by language.” This passion for the written word is evident in her work, as she expertly weaves together vivid imagery and evocative language in her poetry.
Dr. Julie Benesh’s multifaceted life is a testament to her dedication, creativity, and intellect. As a writer, poet, and academic, she has successfully navigated the complexities of balancing art and science, creating a unique and inspiring path for herself. Her achievements in both fields and her commitment to fostering the growth of the literary community demonstrate her unwavering passion for the written word and the human experience.
In a world where individuals often feel pressured to choose one path or another, Dr. Julie Benesh serves as a reminder that it is possible to cultivate and excel in multiple domains. Her ability to combine her love for creative writing with her expertise in psychology has not only enriched her own life but also positively impacted the lives of her students, colleagues, and readers.
