News and Notes (Week of 4.27.2020)
I thought I would kick off my commitment to blog more by discussing how it feels to get those three letters after the comma. It feels good, but of course, it would feel better if the world wasn’t burning around us. That said, it was a helluva journey and I’m happy to get across the finish line. Two underrated things that stand out is the drudgery of the process between successfully defending your dissertation and submitting that final version and how much you really get to know yourself in that last year, ranging from studying for your comprehensive exams and defending your dissertation. But yeah, feels great to finish.
The obvious lessons that I will take with me from my Ph.D. program experience is that I should have done this shit earlier. This shit is meant for single or dating folks. When you have a family, it is ROUGH. When it comes to the timing of pursuing an advanced degree, DO NOT be like me. Other than that, I wish I could have found more balance between maintaining and nurturing connections and getting my stuff done. I will try to be better with this going forward.
If my life made more sense, I would have graduated with my Ph.D. around 2010 and seeking an assistant professor job would be a no-brainer, especially given how much I enjoyed my TA experience back in the day. But given the paths my life has actually taken, I am primarily invested in the consulting path. Based on my professional experience and just the gratification of helping organizations while owning your own time, the consulting path is HIGHLY attractive. I’m still keeping an eye out, though, for academic gigs that would be tough to pass up. That said, I definitely want to continue publishing, both in academic contexts and more generally.
I must say, it wasn’t easy to maintain focus on my work and deadlines during this pandemic. As someone who feels a natural connection to people, it is TOUGH to digest what is happening out here. Salute to all those who have maintained sober minds and are dedicating themselves to being of service. TRIPLE SALUTE to the healthcare workers. It’s also a bit challenging to deal with the uncertainty of the economy, but what can we do besides push ahead, right?
My hope lies in the road traveled. I am reminded of that old gospel song:
I don’t feel no ways tired I’ve come too far from where I’ve started from Nobody told me The road would be easy I don’t believe He brought me this far To leave me
This is my testimony and the unfailing light in the darkness.
Peace and Blessings,
Dr. Jamar M. Wheeler