One of the most popular topics of conversation now among the doctoral students and faculty seems to be focusing on how to effectively get a teaching and research position. Even though the economy is tough at the moment, there are still positions open. I had the opportunity to take a professional development seminar last summer that focused on the job searching process for doctoral students, and we had a similar discussion about this topic.
However, when applying for a research and teaching position– what information do you include on yourself as a rising scholar and professional in the field? How much information is appropriate to share with future employers about youself? Do you include what you like to do outside the classroom (ex. hobbies, interests, etc) or do you just as one of lines from the movie “Dragnet” states– “Just the facts, ma’am”– you are just a researcher and that is it, period. There appears to be some universities that want scholars that are interested in just teaching and research and nothing else— while others want a more balanced professor at their position. I think that this may change in the academic environment due to the current economic times– people want to know who exactly they are hiring because they are not only an investment for the university, but they are also represeting the reputaiton of the institution.
I would definitely consider myself a balanced person in and outside the classroom. I enjoy researching and teaching in public relations, but I also have many hobbies and interests outside as well. Traveling, exercising, reading, following college football (of course!), watching sci-fi movies and shows, and cooking just to name a few. This is who I am as a person, and these activities will influence how I teach and conduct research to a certain degree. I try to look at what is going out in the world and see how I can bring these examples and apply them in the classroom. That is the part of evolving as a scholar and researcher.
Plus, I believe in order to be an effective scholar– you have to take what you observe and learn from other aspects of life and see if you can apply them in the classroom and in your research. It is a way to connect with your students and other audiences and shows that you are not a scholar in just a laboratory or office– but you are a scholar of life. Learning does not end in the classroom.
So, I would summarize by stating that I believe that universities should look at scholars that can take a more integrated approach in their teaching and research. Professors should be able to not only be experts in their field of study, but they should also have a balance and various interests that they can share with others. However, there needs to be a balance in the information that you present to your future employer. You want to present yourselves in a professional manner, and is in sinc with your reputation as a scholar, researcher, and public relations professional.
Hope you all are having a wonderful day! 🙂
Best Wishes,
Karen
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