Letters to a Young Academic

Guy R. McPherson is an award-winning teacher and researcher. A lifelong academician, his scholarly efforts focus on conservation of biological diversity. He has written six books dozens of articles.

Young academicians are serious scholars and voracious readers who are perennially in search of practical and inspiring advice about their vocation. Their tenure-driven neuroses, combined with an inherent competitive streak and an understanding of the importance of public service, engender their quest for advice about life in the academy. In Letters to a Young Academic: Seeking Teachable Moments, Guy R. McPherson feeds a sophisticated audience hungry for practical, inspirational, and witty advice. He begins by answering the question, 'Why choose academia?,' then addresses the fundamental nature of the 'life of mind' before addressing questions that deal with the 'how' and 'what' of teaching. Finally, McPherson turns to issues of career advancement and professional service. Each topics is described in a series of personal letters. This book is a quick read that will evoke laughter, reflection, and contemplation for all young scholars.

Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Chapter I Chapter 3 Chapter II Chapter 4 Chapter III Chapter 5 Chapter IV Chapter 6 Chapter V Chapter 7 Chapter VI Chapter 8 Chapter VII Chapter 9 Chapter VIII Chapter 10 Chapter IX Chapter 11 Chapter X Chapter 12 Chapter XI Chapter 13 Chapter XII Chapter 14 Chapter XIII Chapter 15 Chapter XIV Chapter 16 Chapter XV Chapter 17 Chapter XVI Chapter 18 Chapter XVII Chapter 19 Chapter XVIII Chapter 20 Chapter XIX Chapter 21 Chapter XX