Comments on OK Snap Out Of It Already OR Love Hate Feelings Make The Best Reading

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Ph.D, Schmee-h-d..
What they want is a teacher who fills the classroom with tuition-paying students every semester.  The administration is conjoined to the almighty dollar. If a class makes (fills to capacity) every time, that's what's going to keep the paycheck coming, Ph.D. or no.  Also, especially in Journalism and Creative Writing, they like to plump up their marketing brochures with professors who have real world experience, publications, awards, etc...  Just sign on a couple grad assistants to help with the routine grunt work and focus on the fun stuff.

posted by Pat_B on September 7, 2006 at 7:33 AM | link to this | reply

Azur--- With freelance writing, it's much too easy to get comfortable with
regular gigs, instead of continuing to reach for the stars. I'm constantly battling with myself over this. So . . . sometimes I'm comfortable--- and that's nice for a bit--- until I kick myself in the butt and get going again.

posted by Jazwolf on September 5, 2006 at 1:38 PM | link to this | reply

Pat B, if I am honest the teaching job scares the hell out of me
so I appreciate your confidence in me. The teaching part is fine and the overseeing the newspaper is fine but the organization and admin and the sheer volume of work is daunting. It is like running two demanding careers alongside one another. Not only that one can end up with a bad reputation in moments. Students are even more unforgiving that bloggers - lol. 
While I would be expected  to write about journalism in major papers and in journals, there would be little time for other writing. I would however have a reasonable income that's as long as the salary recognizes the jounalistic experience. I have a feeling they place more value on a PhD which I do not have.

posted by Azur on September 5, 2006 at 1:33 PM | link to this | reply

Azur, this is true -- love/hate sells...

It's fundamental to every story line I can think of.  I think you'd love the teaching job, and I think your students would be lucky to have your shining face in their classroom.  And what's to prevent you from doing your free-lance beauties on the side?  In fact, when you don't need their assignments any more, those markets will probably open up to you.  Need a volunteer tutor/assistant?  Just let me know...

On another note, I never was a Steve Irwin fan.  I just didn't get his schtick, since I grew up with animals and wildlife around me, and had to learn to be careful in their territory, it seemed a bit weird to fence 'em in and video-tape interactions with alligators, etc.  Now I realize Irwin was good soul, a guy who loved the world and nature, and had a good time sharing his joy with others.  We could use a few million more like him, good-hearted and kind and outgoing. 

posted by Pat_B on September 5, 2006 at 10:47 AM | link to this | reply

Good to hear you upbeat again. However, a word of advice:
Never accelerate when driving round a corner. You'll end up in the woods. Even with a Scaextric car it can be dodgy. Wait until you see the straightening out happening.

posted by _dave_says_ack_ on September 5, 2006 at 4:52 AM | link to this | reply

I am glad you are feeling a little better......take care

posted by _Symphony_ on September 5, 2006 at 4:32 AM | link to this | reply

Hope things start looking up for you!



posted by Whacky on September 4, 2006 at 11:55 PM | link to this | reply

Good luck
It is a great feeling when referees speak highly of one

posted by Tanga on September 4, 2006 at 10:52 PM | link to this | reply

sad to hear about Steve Irwin he was such a nice guy larger than life.
I used to love watching his programs, he is well-known here too, of course and came to visit our Auckland zoo.... glad you are fighting back, it will pass and things will get brighter in time. Chin up and hugs!

posted by marieclaire66 on September 4, 2006 at 10:01 PM | link to this | reply

Azur
nice post .

posted by Rosetree on September 4, 2006 at 9:50 PM | link to this | reply