What do you do if you want to advance in Higher Education but don't know where to start?

O autoconhecimento é fundamental nesse primeiro momento. Compreender os pontos fortes que possui e os pontos que carecem de aprimoramento é crucial para traçar a estratégia para os avanços. Compreender que, na área do Ensino Superior, ter paciência e saber realizar as leituras corretas das possibilidades são tarefas importantes.

When I was in the last year of my undergrad, I took a course that changed my life. This one course, and one instructor, single handedly shaped my goals and aspirations. Instead of waiting impatiently to finish my bachelor's degree to start working and making money, I became fully committed to continuing my education. That change of goals required a lot of research: which schools offers the degree I want? which ones are considered the best? how can I get relevant work experience while doing my Master's and PhD? what kinds of jobs people with this education get? For most people today, getting their dream job (especially within academia) is not a linear process. But if you are laser focused on your goal, you will figure out your way to it.

Nos primeiros passos, buscar as oportunidades que melhor se adequam aos pontos fortes é a melhor maneira de buscar espaço no setor. Mas o aprimoramento deve ser constante, tanto desenvolvendo novas habilidades quanto se aperfeiçoando nas que já estão mais estabelecidas. Assim, o profissional poderá ir se direcionando para aquilo que mais almeja sem perder oportunidades.

Gaining skills through education is useful and important, but nothing will prepare you to achieve your goals like practical experience. Explore you options for getting practical experience in areas that you want to improve or develop. You may need to volunteer, do pro bono work, or take a pay cut, if possible. Keep in mind that you are doing this to achieve your ultimate goal, which requires these skills. It will all pay off in the future!

I have made the mistake throughout my higher education journey of undermining the power of networking. Many academics value networking, as they believe that the quality of their work will create opportunities for them. The truth is, these two are not mutually exclusive! Networking is very important in any profession, and academia is no exception. It is very important to take advantage of any social/professional opportunities to meet people and introduce yourself and your work. This includes attending conferences, departmental and university events, and professional development workshops or seminars. You should make it an explicit goal to seek out opportunities to meet new people monthly, it is as important as other aspects of your work!