As part of Critical Edge 2023 I was invited to present to the UoA CAI postgraduate students and discuss the question, “Is a creative academic career right for me?”

The abstract of the presentation on the 30 August 2023 was,

“Join us for a conversation between the Head and Deputy Head of School of Te Waka Tūhura Elam School of Fine Arts & Design, Fiona Jack and Angus Campbell. Fiona and Angus will explore the pathways they took from study, into creative industry, and then into the academy. They will discuss some of the key aspects of academic jobs, and how as creatives we attempt to balance practical and academic careers alongside life and family. As a doctoral candidate interested in an academic career this is your opportunity to hear insights and guidance from experienced academics working in senior positions within CAI.”

Although Fiona intended to join me in the conversation, she was, unfortunately, sick on the day. Despite this, I was able to hold an engaging conversation with the physical and online attendees, many of who were keen to follow an academic career once they had completed their Doctorates.

Some of the sub-questions I explored were:

• What was your experience as a student working with industry/creatives, how did this extend once you graduated?

• Can you describe the moment when you went from being a student to becoming a teacher? How did that transition take place?

• Were you clear that you wanted to follow a creative academic path?

• What are the things that attracted you to academia? Did the reality meet up with these expectations?

• What are the things that you find most rewarding aspects of being a creative academic?

• What are the most challenging aspects of being a creative academic?

• What suggestions could you make for a PhD candidate wanting to follow a creative academic career?