The United States Congress has once again taken up the Equality Act, which would explicitly extend civil rights protections to classes defined in terms of sexual orientation and gender identity. While there may be legitimate discourse on some of the finer points of the legislation, what troubles me most is how often an overly simplistic and reductive understanding of biology is dragged out in an attempt to refute the validity of some of these categories. My first instinct is to correct and clarify the science, but in … [Read more...] about Science Corner: You Are More than Your Karyotype
identity
Seeking the Perfect Job?
Recently, I was speaking to undergrad students about careers when someone asked, “Were you able to find a position that matched your area of special interest?” I shared that I am, in fact, blessed to be able to do important and interesting work that I enjoy. But I also wanted students to know that there are some job-related responsibilities that I don't necessarily enjoy, but that I have to do anyway. Some bright, eager students I've known over the years have had the impression that there was a dream job—one that they … [Read more...] about Seeking the Perfect Job?
Characteristics of a Good Mentor: A Doer, Life Experience
Scott Santibanez introduced his series on 5 Characteristics You Probably Didn't Know to Look for in a Mentor with the below request for advice and a consideration of Someone Who Differs From Your Preconceived Notions. Dear Dr. S, I am an incoming medical/public health student. I recently read one of your papers. From your faculty profile, I see you've pursued a career that integrates many of the things that I want to do! I'd love to meet to explore potential opportunities and discuss any career advice you think would … [Read more...] about Characteristics of a Good Mentor: A Doer, Life Experience
Defensiveness
Thank-you to Mark Eckel for sharing insights with Emerging Scholars as they seek to engage the new year and their particular context with wisdom. Note: Earlier posts in the Scholar's Compass Learning to Live Together series: Approach, Disagreement, and Discernment. For Mark's previous work for the blog click here. To God be the glory! ~ Tom Grosh IV, Assoc. Dir., ESN … [Read more...] about Defensiveness
Leaving Academia, Part 3
In my previous posts, I discussed my exit from the academy and questions to better understand a pivot to a non-academic career. In this third post, I discuss practical strategies as you navigate new job application processes. When I started applying for non-academic jobs, I felt directionless and did not know how to start. Providentially, I stumbled upon the simple realization that I can leverage skills and expertise gained in graduate experience to navigate these new unknowns. By adopting familiar practices of … [Read more...] about Leaving Academia, Part 3