Preparing for Academic Career

The preparation for an academic career is a long process. It typically starts with formal training, and it can last as long as the person’s academic career, because academics provide continuous opportunities for learning and growth. This chapter is confined to early preparation for such a career. It begins with guidelines for choosing an institution for formal training, followed by guidelines for navigating the doctoral program, which is required for successful academic career. Guidelines for improving one’s skills in the doctoral program are provided next, including writing and research skills. And it offers suggestions for choosing collaborators, building research networks, and getting organized for research. The chapter ends with guidelines for choosing an institution for beginning one’s academic career, as this decision is likely to have a significant impact on the person’s professional trajectory.