As I have come to realise over the past couple of years, progress in academia is unlikely without a PhD. And as a rather ‘grown up’ person of maturing years, this is more true than ever, especially for posts of any worth or purpose. Several years in academia has taught me one crucial lesson: never rely on any career development… Read more →
Recent events have taught me a lot. In simple terms, any rocking of the boat will mostly end in tears. Here’s why: 1. Achieving forward movement or exciting new and effective ways of doing things by circumnavigating official channels will in the short-term get you recognition, as well as actual results. But just round the corner, punishment and ridicule await… Read more →
I find myself in a strange position. While always grateful for any paid employment, I am now in a cul-de-sac of dead end tasks with no way out. Odd, that in an institution of higher learning there should be such a limited view of dealing with employees, especially if they have had measurable success in their work. I don’t think… Read more →
When do you know you’ve reached the end of the line? That is, when all else has failed, your brick wall grows higher and higher, your circle of influence smaller and smaller? A decision looms, but when to make that jump and say enough is enough is a very hard judgement call. We all need the safety net of the… Read more →
It’s a funny thing, trying to ‘achieve’. It’s usually not about fame or making a name for yourself. It’s usually much more about contributing to the greater good. Doing something worthwhile. Making the world a better place. Most of us aren’t driven by narcissism, we are genuinely nice people trying hard to be nicer to each other. In higher education… Read more →