Greetings! This month’s blog has been written from a hotel in the Windy City.
SONG INSPIRATION
August’s blog is inspired by the summer hit Espresso by Sabrina Carpenter.
GOLDSCHMIDT
This is my first time attending Goldschmidt – a conference whose praises I’ve heard sung for years. While it would have been nice to attend Goldschmidt when it was overseas, this is my first time properly visiting the city of Chicago (not just the airport) so it’s a wonderful opportunity to explore one of America’s great cities. Additionally, conferences are a great way to catch up with friends and colleagues, build new connections, and learn about cool science. They are also a wonderful excuse to escape from small town N’Angland. I’ve seen so many more familiar faces than I expected and I’ve had the chance to explore some academic topics typically outside of my interest. Furthermore, the weather has been fantastic – perfect for rooftop bars and walks around the city.
LAST DREGS OF SUMMER
Summer break has ended for most American colleges and universities; however, I have another 2 weeks. I’m simultaneously using this time to get ahead on pressing tasks (see next section) and squeeze out a last bit of rest. During the week of Labor Day, I intend to travel to Montreal to disconnect before the onslaught of the Fall. I do miss teaching, a sign that I’ve recovered from the Spring semester. Instead, the ache of burnout has been replaced with anticipation – and dare I say – excitement. Overall, this has been a wonderful summer. I’ve had an opportunity to mentor fantastic students and appropriate time for creative pursuits. Because of these experiences, I’m stoked at the possibilities of autumn.
THE NEXT CYCLE
*Fires racing gun* And they’re off! The next academic job cycle has begun. Unlike last year, I am much more prepared. I know what I need, what I want, what to ask, how to ask, and what to say. My application is significantly stronger, but the pool of jobs I will apply to is much smaller. Currently, there are 4 institutions advertising positions that align with my specialty and career interests. Those applications are due in 2-3 weeks. I’d like to apply to less than a dozen positions this cycle (perhaps as few as half a dozen). That’s not because I’m cocky. It’s because I know what I want. And – for the umpteenth time – this is my last academic job cycle. There’s only so much competition, underappreciation, and systemic disenfranchisement I can take. I LOVE my career – teaching, mentoring, conducting research with friends and motivated students, et cetera. But institutions can’t love you in return.
FUR BABY
Unfortunately, as I wrote this blog, our family fur baby – our bright and curious chow chow / terrier mix – of nearly nine years passed away peacefully surrounded by my loving parents. Although she had lymphoma, her symptoms had been minor until recently. I haven’t had a good cry in nearly 2 years, but it was rather cathartic. She brought so much energy and joy to our family. And she definitely kept my parents young and active. I’m happy we could provide such a loving home for her. And I’m doubly happy at all the silly time we had together.
CURRENT BOOKS AND SHOWS
Recently finished reading: N/A
Currently reading: A Modern History of Japan; The Heat Will Kill You First; The Housekeeper and the Professor
Recently finished watching: House of the Dragon (s2); Saiki (s1); Star Wars: Clone Wars (s5); Sweet Tooth (s3); The Morning Show (s3)
Currently watching: Delicious in Dungeon; Saiki (s2); Star Wars: Clone Wars (s6); The Decameron
Thank you again for reading! My next blog is scheduled for Thursday, September 19th. Until next time….
The Planetary Novelist 