Can you share some adjunct professor horror stories regarding academic politics?
In some cases, adjuncts' contracts may not be renewed due to academic politics. Maybe a new dean wants to bring in their own people or there's a shift in the department's focus. An adjunct who has been teaching successfully for years could suddenly find themselves out of a job without much explanation, all because of these internal political games.
What are some adjunct professor horror stories?
One horror story is the overwork. Adjunct professors often have to teach multiple classes at different institutions just to make ends meet. They get little time for prep and grading. For example, an adjunct might teach four or five courses a semester, each with different syllabi and requirements. It's a nightmare of juggling.
Can you share some academic horror stories?
There was a case where a researcher was on the verge of a major discovery. But his jealous colleague stole his research notes and published the findings as his own. The original researcher had no proof and faced a great setback in his academic career. He had to start anew and prove his worth all over again.
What are some examples of adjunct horror stories?
One example could be 'The Tell - Tale Heart' by Edgar Allan Poe. It's a short but intense horror story where the narrator's madness over the old man's 'vulture - like' eye drives him to murder and then he is haunted by the sound of the dead man's heart. Another is 'The Monkey's Paw' which has an air of mystery and horror as a family makes wishes on a cursed paw with dire consequences. And 'The Yellow Wallpaper' can also be considered, as the slow descent into madness of the female protagonist in the room with the hideous wallpaper is quite terrifying.
Can you share some typical professor horror stories?
Sure. A common one is the professor who is always late for class but never allows students to be late. This shows a lack of respect for the students' time. Another is the professor who changes the course syllabus halfway through the semester without any prior notice, causing chaos for students who were planning their study schedules based on the original one.
Share some office politics horror stories.
One horror story is when a colleague spread false rumors about another to get a promotion. The victim was constantly being undermined and was even accused of things they didn't do. Eventually, they left the company, while the rumor - spreader got the position unjustly.
Can you share some academic job interview horror stories?
One horror story is when a candidate was constantly interrupted during the interview. The interviewers kept cutting in while the candidate was answering questions, not allowing them to fully express their ideas. It made the candidate feel disrespected and flustered, and they couldn't present their best self.
Why are adjunct horror stories so appealing?
Adjunct horror stories are appealing because they allow us to experience fear in a safe way. We can read about terrifying situations and monsters without actually being in danger. It's like a rollercoaster ride for our emotions.
Can you share some funny academic stories?
Sure. There was a time in a science class when a student was asked to name a gas. He confidently said 'oops' instead of 'O2'. It made the whole class burst into laughter.
Can you share some success academic stories?
Stephen Hawking is also a great example in an academic success story. Even though he was diagnosed with a debilitating disease, he continued his research in theoretical physics. His work on black holes and the origin of the universe was remarkable. He was able to communicate complex scientific ideas to the general public, making him not only a great scientist but also an inspiration to many.
Can you share some academic success stories?
Malala Yousafzai is also an example of academic success. Despite the Taliban's ban on girls' education in her region, she fought for her right to learn. She not only continued her own education but also became a global advocate for girls' education. Her story shows that education can be a powerful weapon against oppression and ignorance.