HelloKeri

Categories: Academia, Research, Service, Teaching

Academic Travels – STTI

Sigma Theta Tau 46th Biennial Convention

This past November, I had an opportunity to travel to Indianapolis, Indiana, to present a collaborative podium presentation at the Sigma Theta Tau 46th Biennial Convention. It was a quick trip for me, but oh, it was a life-changing trip. To start, I’ve always had a fear of flying, even though I’ve flown several times before. It was just something about getting on a plane that would put me in a tailspin. This time was no different. I totally put too much thought into it. I tried everything I could not have to fly alone. My husband had work duties, and my sister had to work. I even talked to my therapist about how nervous I was and my fear of flying alone. She told me everything would be ok and to look at it as a new opportunity. I was a nervous wreck up until the day I had to travel. Long story short. I got over my fear of flying on this trip. I told myself to stop. Just stop! I was completely overthinking it and putting additional stress on my body. After that much-needed pep talk, I was ok. I was able to get on the plane and enjoy my flights. I had to take several to travel to my convention and back. I slept on the majority of them without worry. My next goal with travel is to learn how to pack the correct way.

Second, this trip was life-changing because my iPad became disabled at the beginning of my travels. I usually travel with my Macbook and Ipad; however, I decided to leave my Macbook at home. I tried everything to disable my Ipad, but nothing worked. I guess that was God’s way of saying chill out this weekend. I can laugh about it now. I had my presentation notes on my Ipad. Again, I went into panic mode because I usually over-practice before a presentation. Luckily, I had a printable version of my notes with me. I also had a copy of the manuscript, so I practiced.

Now to the good stuff! The convention took place at the JW Marriott, and I stayed in the same place. The hotel was beautiful. I was able to eat some great food with good company. The presentation was well-received, and I received great feedback on my research. I am excited about my next academic travel.

Categories: Academia, Research, Service, Teaching

Academia – My Job Requirements

I want to provide a brief overview of my job requirements in academia. I currently work in the position of Assistant Professor in nursing. I hold a Ph.D. in nursing. This terminal degree is not a requirement for this position at other institutions. As an academic, you have the opportunity to choose the career path you take based upon your goals and educational achievement.


My job requirements include three categories: research, teaching, and service. Depending on your institution, there are different ways to divide these categories. For example, your institution can require 40% research, 40% teaching, and 20% service. The tenure review board will assess these areas to determine if you met the requirements to maintain your position or achieve promotion.


I want to explain these categories to provide an idea of what each entails.


Research – I have to demonstrate that I can produce scholarly works in the form of manuscripts, presentations, and grants (funding). I have a research area that I am interested in, and my scholarly works revolve around that research area.


Teaching – I have to demonstrate that I can adequately teach the next generation of nurses. I demonstrate my teaching proficiency in the classroom, clinical, etc. I have to maintain a score of 4.0 in this area, and my SOIs (students’ opinions of instruction) determine my score. Students evaluate my teaching and rate me on a scale.


Service – I have to demonstrate that I can professionally contribute to my school, university, organizations that relate to my research, etc. I accomplish service in several ways. One of the ways I demonstrate service is by serving on committees in my school of nursing and university.


I only provided a snippet of my job. I would encourage anyone interested in academia to find a mentor. They are already aware of the requirements for promotion, and they can help you navigate your promotional journey. I would also encourage anyone interested in promotion to get a copy of your institution’s promotion and tenure guidelines. These guidelines should break down what you need to succeed up the academic ladder.

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