I’ve had a great time with this blog over the past 6 months—my half-year-iversary is coming up this weekend on Thursday! When I began, I was excited to write about my own transition process, reflect on what I’d learned, and provide support and helpful resources for others in my situation: PhDs trying to figure out their place in the world beyond the tenure-track. I had no idea I’d end up where I am now, involved in the wonderful post-PhD community, a community that knows no disciplinary or state boundaries. I’m very grateful for the chance to get to know some of you a bit, and look ever forward to learning along with you.
I no longer feel, as I did 6 months ago, mostly alone in my transition journey. That, in and of itself, is incredibly important for me. And I’m thankful for all the connections I’ve made, either with people who’ve reached out over email, Tweeted at me, written on my Facebook fan page, or with whom I’ve had face-to-face (in-person or over the internet) or phone-to-phone conversations. How amazing to have so many new friends!
Let me thank you all especially for being so supportive and sensitive when I write or post about issues that aren’t always openly discussed in the place we all come from: an institution of higher learning. The lack of judgment and openness have been heart-warming. And so has the incredible honesty of the Q & A participants. Sharing personal stories can be difficult at the best of times; admitting to feeling negative emotions is hardly celebrated in our success-focused culture. Cheers to all of you.
And cheers to all of you, readers, and here’s to another wonderful six months!
