A Nurse's Step-By-Step Guide to Transitioning to an Academic Role: Strategies to Jumpstart Your Career in Education and Research

We say that in nursing, the possibilities are endless because there is just so much you can do with your career. I like to say that the possibilities in academia are almost endless because academia works a little differently. Understanding your role as an educator in your specific college or school of nursing requires understanding the mission, vision, core values, organizational structure, and strategic plan for your institution and college. Anyone in academia will tell you that these institutions exist to educate future professionals. Therefore, being an educator is a significant responsibility in helping the institution meet its core purpose. There may be a heavy emphasis on research and scholarship depending on your type of institution, but individual expectations will vary based on the type of appointment you receive.

Whether you are coming from clinical practice, industry, the corporate world, community-based practice, or any other type of practice setting, transitioning into academia requires you to stash your proverbial toolbox with the necessary tools for the job to be effective in your new role and to quickly acclimate to this unique environment. Indeed, you may have heard some horror stories.However, this book provides you with a step-by-step guide to transitioning to an academic role. We address all things academia, and nothing is off limits.

This book is divided into three parts:

Part

I: Welcome to Academia

Part

II: Choosing the Best Role for You

Part

III: It Starts and Ends With You: Mind, Body, and Soul

Throughout the book, you will find a recurring section titled "Mercy's Moments," where I share the many things I have learned on my own journey in academia. I share funny and sometimes even embarrassing stories to illustrate a point or emphasize a concept. I give you a glimpse into my personal triumphs and tragedies of transitioning into an academic role, and that's OK. You'll also find "Success Nuggets" as you go along-small tidbits of information that either reinforce important points or offer additional tips. So, hang tight, and let us equip you to not only survive academia but also thrive while you're at it.