It's not unusual for academics to tell their rags-to-riches stories and understandably get upset if people say they've had some breaks alongside the bad stuff. But in these cases again blame others for not succeeding too, rather than noticing they're facing different barriers.
-
Show this thread
-
Much of the time academics mean well. They feel if they share their tale it might help others. And if you've been through hard times you'll want to stop others going through the same. While having it noted how far you've come.
1 reply 2 retweets 6 likesShow this thread -
Unfortunately there's a group of academics who use their success stories to imply everyone can achieve if they just try. And those who don't reach the same positions/choose the same subjects either don't want to, or are naturally (aka biologically) unsuited to academic positions.
2 replies 6 retweets 20 likesShow this thread -
So if you're an academic who's done well. Be proud. Be bold. Tell other people. But make sure you pause first and see what things got you there. Ask yourself whether other people whose circumstances aren't like yours would've managed the same. If not, make this crystal clear.
1 reply 3 retweets 19 likesShow this thread -
Resist the temptation to keep on telling a story of how you achieved against adversity and note if those adversities are still present and disproportionately affecting others not like you. Put your energies and influence into drawing attention to this.
1 reply 1 retweet 8 likesShow this thread -
So your story becomes "I have done well because...." while emphasising "these people are still missing out because..." meaning "they can't reach the successes I have enjoyed because..." Join the dots. Celebrate where you are. Lift as you climb.
1 reply 3 retweets 19 likesShow this thread -
Minorities saying they are being kept out and caused harm is your cue to LISTEN AND ACT. It is not your opportunity to say "yes well I've been through..." and list your hardships that may be grim but will still not equal the limitations they face.
1 reply 3 retweets 15 likesShow this thread -
If you want a good way to understand this, especially if you feel aggrieved you've gone through a lot and others ought to appreciate that, this comic 'On a plate' by Toby Morris https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/the-wireless/373065/the-pencilsword-on-a-plate …
1 reply 14 retweets 32 likesShow this thread -
Overcoming hardship stories are popular in academia, science communication and media. Sharing yours can reach people and inspire them to try or keep going. Just be careful how you phrase it. Your struggles aren't diminished by other people facing hardships far greater than yours.
1 reply 4 retweets 12 likesShow this thread -
Your candle won't shine any brighter just because you blew out someone else's light.
2 replies 14 retweets 34 likesShow this thread
-
-
Replying to @DawnHFoster
Thank you
I am going to bask in your praise for a long time. Means so much because your writing is always brilliant0 replies 0 retweets 1 likeThanks. Twitter will use this to make your timeline better. UndoUndo
-
Loading seems to be taking a while.
Twitter may be over capacity or experiencing a momentary hiccup. Try again or visit Twitter Status for more information.
msdawnfoster@gmail.com Tusk is the best Fleetwood Mac album. Only care about LFC.