Good Work If You Can Get It: How to Succeed in Academia

The book "Good Work If You Can Get It" combines personal experience with the latest higher education research to help students understand what graduate school and the academy are really like. It answers questions such as should I go to graduate school, how much does a PhD cost, what does it take to succeed, and what kinds of jobs are there after grad school. It also provides tips on how to be productive, publish continually, teach many classes, and balance work and life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2022
Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press

The pursuit of a career in academia can be a challenging and competitive journey, with only a small percentage of individuals ultimately securing a full-time academic position. In his book "Good Work If You Can Get It," Jason Brennan combines personal experience with the latest higher education research to provide valuable insights into what graduate school and the academy are really like. The book addresses a range of questions, including whether pursuing a PhD is worth it, the costs associated with graduate education, the skills required to succeed in graduate school, the types of jobs available after graduation, and the challenges faced by individuals who never obtain full-time professorships.

Brennan offers a realistic and data-driven perspective on university teaching and research, providing practical advice and strategies for individuals seeking to excel in these fields. He discusses the importance of productivity, publication, teaching multiple classes, navigating the publish or perish mentality, understanding journal and book publishers, balancing work and life, and more. The book is designed to be a guidebook for anyone considering graduate school, already in grad school, starting as a new professor, or advising graduate students.

One of the key themes of "Good Work If You Can Get It" is the importance of networking and building relationships with faculty members and other professionals in the field. Brennan emphasizes the importance of attending conferences, seminars, and other professional events to connect with others and learn about new opportunities. He also suggests that graduate students should be proactive in seeking out research opportunities and mentorship from faculty members, as these relationships can be crucial for their academic and professional success.

Another important aspect of the book is the discussion of the job market for academia. Brennan notes that the competition for academic positions is fierce, with only a small percentage of applicants securing tenure-track positions. He suggests that graduate students should be prepared to pursue a variety of career paths, including teaching at community colleges, private universities, or non-profit organizations. He also emphasizes the importance of developing a strong teaching portfolio and being flexible and adaptable in the job market.

In addition to providing practical advice and strategies, "Good Work If You Can Get It" also offers a candid and honest portrayal of the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in academia. Brennan shares his own experiences and struggles as a graduate student and professor, providing insights into the emotional toll that the academic journey can take. He also highlights the importance of maintaining a sense of self-care and balance in one's life, as the demands of graduate school and the academy can be intense and stressful.

Overall, "Good Work If You Can Get It" is a valuable resource for anyone considering a career in academia. The book provides a realistic and data-driven perspective on the academic journey, offering practical advice and strategies for success. By combining personal experience with the latest research, Brennan helps readers navigate the challenges and opportunities of pursuing a career in academia and prepares them for the realities of the job market. Whether you are a current graduate student, a recent graduate, or a professional seeking to advance your career, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding what it takes to succeed in the world of higher education.

Weight: 249g
Dimension: 216 x 140 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781421443287