It’s basically taken me 100 posts to say that. Well, not really. There’s a bit more to it, but that 43 second clip sums it up nicely. I’ve had a few goals in writing this blog. First, to learn from others who have successfully transitioned from the academy to the ‘real world.’ Second, to narrate my own exodus from academia and hopefully soon be able to narrate some measure of success in the non-academic world. I hope the narrative has been of some help and encouragement to others on a similar path. Third, to pass along bits and pieces of advice, seldom original, that I’ve found useful. Fourth, to offer what I believe is a well-deserved and long-overdue critique of the current academic establishment. Fifth, to make the case that philosophy — and the humanities more generally — is a good foundation for many non-academic careers. Sixth, to do my best to popularize philosophy and make it more accessible to the general public. I haven’t done as much of that on this blog as I would like, but maybe I’ll get around to it in the next 100 posts.
I also want to take the opportunity to thank my readers for responding so generously to what I’ve done so far. When I started writing, I doubted this blog would find an audience, but your response has put those doubts to rest. The number of followers, page views, podcast downloads, etc. have exceeded all of my expectations. I’m also grateful to have been awarded ‘Freshly Pressed’ status by WordPress. It really helped introduce new readers to my blog, so I’m thankful for that. I’m also grateful, and surprised, to have been named among the ‘Best Career Resources for PhDs’ by Online Ph.D. Program. As I said before, it’s very humbling to be in the company of the other blogs and websites listed. As a relative newcomer, I’m not sure I’ve earned it yet, but, again, there’s always the next 100 posts.
Thanks for reading and listening!
That’s fantastic! Congratulations; ‘Freshly Pressed’, ‘Best Career Resources for PhD’s’ – well done
Thanks, Kelly!
Congrats! I am glad you were freshly pressed, because I am following your blog since then! You have succeeded in meeting all your stated goals – your story, academia, philosophy etc. – but you have forgotten the entertainment / geek factor of your blog:
I have checked out http://onlinephdprogram.org/career-resource/ and they link to your post on the Time Machine (“motivational post”) – great choice! And there is art for art’s sake, too – you are a pioneer search term poet!
Thanks! Yes, I remember when you started following. I’m glad you found me and introduced me to your blog. I probably wouldn’t have found it — or many of the other blogs I now follow — if I hadn’t been Freshly Pressed, so I feel very fortunate.
I definitely want to do more geeky and entertaining posts in the future! In other words, more posts like ‘The Time Machine.’ I think that sort of post helps accomplish my sixth goal of making philosophy more accessible.
I give you all the credit for your pioneering work in the field of search term poetry.