Stop Whining About Lack of Career Opportunities

To the Editor:

After more than five decades in public higher education, I readily concede I’ve become increasingly cranky. Still, as a regular consumer of The Chronicle, I am continually struck by the significant number of whining pieces that now appear. Most recently Kevin McClure whined that “Higher Ed is a Land of Dead-End Jobs.” To quote Harry Frankfurt, this is pure “bullshit” (On Bullshit, 2005).

Certainly, those of my vintage knew from the very beginning of our careers that our paths were our own responsibilities. Anyone who works in or seriously observes careers at universities should understand long-term career opportunities. For me it started as an instructor in the University of Wisconsin System and will conclude having served as a president/chancellor four times. When I needed advice, I sought it. If I aspired for a new role I prepared for it. No one was responsible for my career but me. And I assure you, colleagues across the country will tell a very similar story.

So, as an old, long-serving member of the academy, my response to McClure is simple — take charge of your life, take charge of your career, and keep your whining to yourself.

Mike Martin
President Emeritus

Florida Gulf Coast University
Fort Myers