Are you navigating the academic job market in media, communication, journalism, or related fields? Join GloTech for a hybrid coffee session “Navigating Your Path to Success “—available both in-person and via Zoom—where they will explore the complexities of this process. This session is designed to help you share tips, discuss strategies, and form meaningful connections with fellow candidates who are going through the same journey.
The session will take place on Wednesday, October 16, from 3:15 to 4:30 PM EST at UMass Amherst in ILC S467. For those unable to attend in person, a Zoom option is available here: https://shorturl.at/cZd8z. Open to all UMASS grad students (and friends)!
During the event, participants can expect guidance on key aspects of the academic job market, including navigating applications, interviews, and understanding the often-unspoken “hidden curricula” that are crucial to success but rarely discussed. These behind-the-scenes insights can make a significant difference in how you approach your job search.
This session will also feature an open Q&A, where you are encouraged to ask questions on any aspect of the job market process, from finding job listings to preparing for interviews and handling the stress of on-campus visits. It's also a chance to discuss personal challenges such as imposter syndrome or anxiety, offering a safe space to share concerns and receive advice.
One of the main benefits of this gathering is the opportunity to network with peers who are also on the job market. Building a supportive community helps ease the isolation that many candidates experience, and these connections can continue well beyond the job market season, becoming lasting professional relationships.
The academic job market can be daunting, leaving many candidates feeling overwhelmed by self-doubt and isolation. This session is designed to break down those barriers by fostering a community of shared knowledge and emotional support. By coming together, we can better understand the unspoken lessons of academia, provide encouragement, and increase our chances of success. Ideally, the relationships formed here will evolve into ongoing support networks that continue throughout your career, with participants eventually mentoring future candidates.
The session is organized by Dr. Heesoo Jang, an assistant professor in the Journalism Department at UMass Amherst. Having recently navigated the academic job market herself, Dr. Jang understands the stress and confusion the process can bring. She looks forward to sharing insights, building connections, and creating an environment where candidates can support one another.