Entering the “Hunger Games” or How to Claim Victory in Gaining Your First Higher Education Job

Abstract

As an individual nears completion of the dissertation, s/he is so elated with joy and relief that s/he was able to stay the course and complete the process. Then the question arises, “What’s next?” There are many decisions to be made, as well as the race to find a job that will be a good fit for the beginning of your career. The realization soon becomes apparent that there are many factors in this process that might not have been explicitly taught during graduate school. With the clock ticking, the race is on to secure a position, but dilemmas and decisions abound. Should you pursue interviews while ABD (and perhaps take time away from writing) or wait until the defense is complete to begin the job search in earnest with your terminal degree in hand? In this humorous comparison to the popular book/movie series, take the journey of three women as they moved through the “Hunger Games” from ABD life through that first year in a best fit position. The trio will round out the presentation by sharing their success stories of landing jobs and continuously seeking balance for vitality in one’s career path and life.

Presentation Description

This presentation explores the personal experiences of three university professionals as they moved from the completion of the dissertation into the world of job interviews and successfully obtaining a position. With humorous, yet true to life connections to best selling novel series, The Hunger Games, the recent Curriculum Studies graduates will share stories and advice on landing interviews, proceeding through the interview process, and launching into the start of an university career. The presenters will also speak on their efforts towards obtaining balance while actively pursuing research, teaching, and service work. Participants will receive a job hunting tip sheet.

Keywords

Doctoral studies, Higher ed job searches, Cover letters and applications, Preparing for first higher ed job interview, First higher ed job interview, First year in higher ed job, Balance in personal and professional, Curriculum studies careers

Location

Magnolia Room C

Publication Type and Release Option

Presentation (Open Access)

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Jun 12th, 9:15 AM Jun 12th, 10:30 AM

Entering the “Hunger Games” or How to Claim Victory in Gaining Your First Higher Education Job

Magnolia Room C

As an individual nears completion of the dissertation, s/he is so elated with joy and relief that s/he was able to stay the course and complete the process. Then the question arises, “What’s next?” There are many decisions to be made, as well as the race to find a job that will be a good fit for the beginning of your career. The realization soon becomes apparent that there are many factors in this process that might not have been explicitly taught during graduate school. With the clock ticking, the race is on to secure a position, but dilemmas and decisions abound. Should you pursue interviews while ABD (and perhaps take time away from writing) or wait until the defense is complete to begin the job search in earnest with your terminal degree in hand? In this humorous comparison to the popular book/movie series, take the journey of three women as they moved through the “Hunger Games” from ABD life through that first year in a best fit position. The trio will round out the presentation by sharing their success stories of landing jobs and continuously seeking balance for vitality in one’s career path and life.