3 lessons I learned after I made a career change…after 10 years.

Summary

An academic of over 10 years shares three key lessons learned after transitioning to a career in science writing with a marketing focus.

Abstract

In January 2021, the author, a former academic with over a decade of experience, made a significant career shift to science writing with a marketing emphasis. The transition taught them the importance of maintaining a growth mindset, embracing change and uncertainty with positivity, and recognizing the value of pausing to regroup during challenging times. The author emphasizes that despite holding a PhD, they faced situations where their advanced degree was not advantageous, which they found to be a humbling experience that encouraged continuous learning. The article invites readers to reflect on their own career changes and the lessons learned from them, while also promoting the author's weekly career newsletter aimed at PhDs and academics.

Opinions

The author believes in the power of a growth mindset, especially for academics transitioning to new careers.
Change and uncertainty are viewed as opportunities for personal development and storytelling rather than just challenges.
The author suggests that even with a PhD, one must be open to learning and not rely solely on their credentials.
A positive attitude towards the unknown is recommended as a way to embrace new opportunities.
Taking time to pause and reassess during periods of change is seen as a strength, not a weakness.
The author values the community of PhDs and academics, inviting them to join a network for career support and advice.

3 lessons I learned after I made a career change…after 10 years.

In January 2021, I made a career change.

I had been an academic — first as a graduate student researcher, then as a post-doc researcher, and then as a community college professor — for 10+ years.

I was switching to science writing with a marketing focus.

Here are 3 things I learned making that career change.

Image of the Author

Embracing the belief in my ability to learn and grow.

Hello, growth mindset!

If you’re an academic then you likely already have this built into your training.

Also on this journey, I’ve learned that the fact that I have a PhD can sometimes mean nothing. I don’t see this as a bad thing. It keeps me humble and helps me to be open to new learning experiences.

Pause and regroup.

We’re resilient, but it’s okay to pause sometimes and talk through difficulties associated with change. I’ve done this many times and come away with the strength to continue.

Have you made a career change?

What did you learn?

2300+ PhDs and academics receive my weekly career newsletter. Join us here!

3 lessons I learned after I made a career change…after 10 years.

Embracing the belief in my ability to learn and grow.

Adopting a positive attitude towards change and uncertainty.

Pause and regroup.