#When Academics Get Petty: A Story of Academic Rivalry and Resilience
📚 Once upon a time, in the hallowed halls of academia, I found myself caught in a web of pettiness and rivalry. Here’s the story of how a tenured professor made my life difficult, and how I found a way to rise above it all.
🔍 The Backstory: Struggling for Recognition
Many years ago, I was hired to teach the coursework of a tenured professor, Dr. Better. Excited at the opportunity to work with someone who was the only other person in our college with expertise in my field, I hoped to gain a potential mentor. However, Dr. Better was too busy and indifferent to give me the time of day, leaving me to navigate the new courses on my own.
🤔 The Struggle is Real: Battling Misconceptions
Despite my hard work and excellent performance evaluations, Dr. Better never acknowledged my efforts or considered me as a top candidate. This led to a misunderstanding about my preparation and expertise in the field, further hindering my chances of getting the mentorship I hoped for.
🚪 The Exit Strategy: Moving On
After three years of struggling to get Dr. Better’s attention, I decided to leave the institution after getting tenured. However, when I requested a letter of recommendation for my tenure files, she didn’t deliver, making my exit from the university even more challenging.
💔 The Reunion: A Chance Encounter
Ten years later, at a faculty reunion, Dr. Better finally acknowledged me, expressing her regret for not writing the letter of recommendation. However, the lack of contrition in her apology left me with a sour taste in my mouth.
🤷♀️ Embracing Pettiness: A Change of Heart
Dr. Better’s attempt at reconciliation at the faculty reunion reignited the feelings of frustration and resentment I had buried. When she attempted to reach out to me through a mutual friend, I decided to take a stand and send a clear message.
✋ Standing Firm: Sending a Message
Ignoring Dr. Better’s friend request on Facebook was my way of making a statement. I wanted her to understand that her lack of support and acknowledgement during my time at the university had consequences, and I was not willing to overlook it.
✨ The Aftermath: Moving Forward
As I continue my journey in academia, I have chosen to focus on the positive experiences and connections I have made. Dr. Better’s attempt at reconciliation may have triggered old feelings, but it also served as a reminder of my resilience and determination to thrive despite the challenges I faced.
In conclusion, my experience with Dr. Better taught me the importance of recognizing my own worth and not letting the actions of others define my journey. While the pettiness of academia can be disheartening, it is essential to rise above it and find support and validation in other places. As I look towards the future, I am grateful for the lessons learned and the strength gained from overcoming such obstacles. And maybe, just maybe, I will consider accepting that friend request one day. But for now, I am content with the knowledge that I stood my ground and refused to be overlooked.
Dodged a bullet.
Good for you! I’m just curious, why do you think she wanted to meet up with you? Was there an alterior motive, like she needed you for something back at the school?
Happy Cake Day!
Arrogant thing. Not surprised.
Happy Cake Day!
I feel as if Dr Better wanted to look better and set up OP to fail. Instead OP proved her mettle and shone. Now Dr Better is trying to latch on OP’ ascension to greater success in the field.