Out of hiding

I've been joking that my 2012 resolutions are to quit smoking and give up eating meat, but since I don't smoke and I'm vegetarian, I'm sure to accomplish both of those, at least, this year!

What remains to be seen, however, is whether or not I'll get a position as an academic this year. I've continued to put in applications and had a few interviews last year, but nothing has panned out so far. The one position that I was a finalist for last year ended up getting cut at the last minute. I have a feeling, though, that this year I will get a great position.

Though I have been hiding from my blog(mostly in shame of unemployment, I admit), a week into the new year, I'm finally ready to stop blaming myself. Circumstances are what they are, and all I can really do is keep putting in the applications and hoping for the best. I have come to a level of acceptance of this situation that I really didn't have last year.

I'm living at home, which is challenging, for sure, but I do feel fortunate to have my meals and rent covered so that I can focus on giving the academic gig one last shot. I have always been fiercely independent, so this is new territory for me. I have been feeling considerably better since I learned that two distant colleagues are also living at home to conduct an academic job search.

Thankfully, I'm staying active with writing articles, and I have a couple of invited talks coming up to look forward to. Getting these invitations has really gone a long way in making me feel more legit as an academic, knowing that someone is willing to shell out money to hear what I have to say, even when that money isn't tuition!

Belated good wishes to everyone for 2012!

4 comments:

Seeking Solace said...

Don't be ashamed. This is a tough time. Your doing the smart thing by getting help from those who can give it to you. ;)

Best of luck on the job hunt!!!!

AliceAcademic said...

Thanks for the perspective and good wishes, Solace.

comebacknikki said...

I'm glad to see you're back! :-)

Anthea said...

Don't be ashamed...it's an awful time to find a job. Yes, you're doing the right thing by getting help and keeping your cv active. ;-)