I have a dream: An autoethnographic exploration and reflection of identity, on the road to academic success in prison

Abstract This is an autoethnographic reflection of some of my experiences in prisons in both England and Wales. I have found that my writing is a way for me to try to reflect and unpack my journey of personal discovery, academia and at the same time finding my own identity in the hypermasculine environment of prison. Autoethnography is a useful means to explore and contextualize my personal experiences in a manner that makes them relevant and meaningful to anyone who has the time and interest in reading this paper. The power of education within prison settings should not be underestimated. This paper explores the relationship between education and identity, focusing on the positive and negative aspects that can be associated with being a student in prison.