As a child, my family lived in several of the great cities of Asia - including Hong Kong, Singapore, & Taipei.
My entire life, non-Chinese have asked do you speak Chinese?
I always respond, well, my first language was a Chinese dialect - but I quickly lost it - because there was not a common dialect in each city.
People look baffled, because to an outsider, the rich diversity of Chinese culture is incomprehensible, this comment usually leads to a fun conversation about differences in place, language, & mindset.
Changing academic jobs is similar to moving across countries.
As an adult, I have worked in three great academic institutions in three academic conferences in the States.
With each move, I am asked, how are you settling in?
They looked baffled when I comment; it’s been more complicated than you would think because the cultures are so different from school to school. This usually leads to an uncomfortable conversation about the place, goals & mindset.
I’ve learned that settling in takes time. And sometimes, even time isn’t enough, you have to carve out your own space to be happy.
A few tips on how to navigate a new place.
First, be open-minded. You need to be open to differences across school & be willing to give new ways of doing things a chance.
Every school has a bizarre tradition or two.
Second, don’t look back. You will miss your old job. That’s ok. But don’t harp on how great your old job was compared to your new job.
No one wants to hear about how ‘XYZ’ is better.
Third, trust but verify. It sounds paranoid, but I have found many mismatches between policy and practice. Take time to verify how processes really work.
No one is out to get you- but a little time verifying rules makes actions like reimbursements easier.
Fourth, be realistic. Academics will dazzle you as a candidate. They will treat you like chopped liver once you arrive.
You are joining a team, so don’t be a primadonna, or social sanctions will follow. #rolltide
Fifth, make a friend. You will enjoy your new place more if you have an out-of-discipline friend.
Out of discipline, friends can give you new perspectives and a safe space to ask questions - they have no skin in your department's game.
Sixth, show up. Go to sporting events, socials, and local community events. This can be hard for socially awkward people like me - I mean - I might have to talk about more than research?
Seriously, you find moving easier if you get out and mingle.
Seven, learn. Learn what makes the students and faculty tick.
Every school has a unique language. Learn its code words.
Eight, enjoy. As hard as moving can be, enjoy the novelty and the opportunities afforded by a new place.
Every school has unexpected treasures - a dive bar, a memorable hike, a service program - enjoy what is unique at your new place.
If you make the time, learn the culture, & have some patience, navigating a new place can be fun.
Best of luck!
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