Pursuing a Career as a Professor: My Journey and Insights

As a retired Full Professor and endowed Chair, I have had the privilege of working with students and colleagues at various universities. Now, I find myself a member of Academics Anonymous—a personal reflection on how my academic journey has shaped my life.

Reflecting on a Lifelong Academic Career

The term 'professor' is often taken to mean 'college teacher'—but the journey to becoming one can be complex and multifaceted. My academic career has been filled with highs and lows, successes and setbacks, and personal reflections on the challenges faced by educators.

At Penn State, the teaching ranks varied from Assistant Professor and Associate Professor to Professor. There were also equivalent research ranks. At Juniata College and Howard University, the teaching ranks were similar, with positions ranging from Assistant Professor to Professor. My roles at these institutions included Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and even a summer stint as an Associate Professor at a community college.

Achievements and Obstacles

One of my most significant achievements was building a top-ranked Career Resource Center at the University of Florida, recognized by Princeton Review. This project was accomplished through private industry contributions, not university or student funding. The center, led by my good friend Wayne Wallace PhD, revolutionized career services for students. Unfortunately, Wayne passed away shortly after retiring due to pancreatic cancer. No one at the University stepped forward to recognize his achievements, which was a disheartening experience.

This incident reinforced my belief that academic recognition often falls short of what is deserved, especially for those who have invested their lives and efforts into their work.

Challenges and Realities

The path to becoming a professor requires a deep commitment to teaching and research. However, as someone who has seen the realities of the academic world, I understand that you should not be so obsessed with your objective that you neglect your personal life and well-being.

For instance, my career at Juniata College was less focused on research and more on teaching. I loved those jobs and the environment they provided. But each position was a compromise to support my wife's career. This experience taught me that balancing personal and professional life is crucial.

While I would love to teach introductory physics someday, the reality of the academic job market is daunting. Even a position that pays 1/5 of my current worth would be a significant financial loss. This makes it challenging to pursue a teaching role, especially one that I genuinely enjoy. It is a reminder that the dream of being a professor must sometimes be set aside for practical considerations.

Conclusion

Being a professor is more than just a job; it is a lifestyle choice that requires a deep passion for teaching and learning. The journey is rewarding but often fraught with challenges. If you aspire to be a professor, remember that balance and personal fulfillment are just as important as academic success.