Survive and Thrive: A Guide for Untenured Faculty (Synthesis Lectures on Engineering, Science, and Technology)

The experience of an untenured faculty member is highly dependent on the quality of the mentoring they receive. This mentoring may come from a number of different sources, and the concept of developing a constellation of mentors is highly recommended, but a mentoring relationship that is guided by the mentee's needs will be the most productive. Often, however, the mentee does not know their own needs, what questions to ask, and what topics they should discuss with a mentor. This book provides a guide to the mentoring process for untenured faculty. Perspectives are provided and questions posed on topics ranging from establishing scholarly expertise and developing professional networks to personal health and balancing responsibilities. The questions posed are not intended for the mentee to answer in isolation, rather a junior faculty member should approach these questions throughout their untenured years with the help of their mentors. Survive and Thrive: A Guide for Untenured Faculty will help to facilitate the mentoring process and lead junior faculty to a path where they can move beyond just surviving and truly thrive in their position. Table of Contents: Tough Questions About Why You Are Here / Joining Your Department and Discipline / Establishing Expertise / Developing Networks, Relationships, and Mentoring Activities / Getting Support and Evaluating Your Personal Health / Planning for the Future / Conclusion Read more