On October 9th, the Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies hosted a workshop to help prepare graduate students for the academic job market, providing valuable insights and practical advice for graduate students and early-career academics navigating the competitive academic job market.

Led by experienced faculty members, Chris Chávez (SOJC), Lynn Stephen (Anthropology), and Lara Bovilsky (College Scholars, English)  the workshop offered a comprehensive guide to successfully securing tenure-track positions. The workshop covered essential topics, from crafting a compelling dossier to navigating campus visits and negotiating job offers. Below are digital versions of the packets that were provided by Dr. Bovilsky during the workshop.

Key Takeaways

Below is a summary of key takeaways from the workshop, providing a valuable resource for those who missed the workshop or are seeking to refresh their understanding of the academic job search process.

  • Crafting a Strong Job Application
    • Tailor applications to each job posting
    • Use clear, concise language
    • Emphasize research and teaching connections
    • Showcase unique skills and experiences Dossier Components
  • Cover letter (2 pages max)
    • CV (with relevant headings)
    • Teaching statement (outline philosophy, challenges, goals)
    • Research statement (1-2 pages, dissertation, future plans)
    • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) statement
  • Preparing for Interviews
    • Research department, faculty, and interview committee members
    • Practice answering common questions (research, teaching, departmental life)
    • Prepare for different interview formats (Zoom, phone, in-person)
  • Interview Tips
    • Listen to the full question
    • Answer concisely and clearly
    • Look at everyone, not just the questioner
    • Don’t take illegal or intrusive questions personally
    • Set boundaries politely
  • Campus Visits
    • Endurance event (multiple days, various activities)
    • Remember: they want you to succeed
    • Be polite, open, and professional
    • Research people you’ll meet
    • Activities may include solo meetings, group interviews, teaching demos
  • Campus Visit Tips
    • Ask people about their experience and work
    • Show interest in students and department
    • Prepare talks and presentations carefully
    • Practice timing and clarity
    • Bring necessary materials (e.g., business cards, extra copies)
  • Negotiating Job Offers
    • Express gratitude for any offer; negotiate creatively but reasonably
    • Ask for time to think about offer and consult with your team
    • Seek advice from multiple faculty members before accepting the offer
    • Consider factors beyond salary (teaching load, summer funding)
    • Potential requests: credit for prior publications, higher salary, teaching releases, spousal accommodations
  • Key Takeaways
    • Prepare thoroughly for interviews and campus visits
    • Build a support team for negotiation
    • Consider multiple factors in job offers
    • Negotiate creatively but reasonably 

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