by Muhammad Hassan Bin Afzal, Visiting Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science and Public Service, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Muhammad Hassan Bin Afzal recommends taking advantage of training sessions, workshops, and short courses during your career’s early stages or transitional periods.
As an early-career academic, my journey of professional development has been truly transformative. It’s a journey marked by commitment, foresight, and a willingness to seize new opportunities. This summer, I participated in workshops, trainings, and short courses that were pivotal in my career, enhancing my teaching, research, and mentorship skills. The insights gained from these experiences, coupled with the guidance of a mentor, have reinforced my belief in the value of learning, particularly in the quantitative social sciences. These experiences have not only equipped me with new skills but also deepened my dedication to empowering my students and inspiring them to reach their full potential.
My growth journey has taught me that professional development is more than just participation; it’s a lifelong commitment to learning, sharing, and making a positive impact. This summer, I was fortunate to attend two highly competitive workshops at the Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research (ICPSR) at the University of Michigan: the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study Data User Workshop and the Exploring and Analyzing Monitoring the Future (MTF) Data Workshop. The rigorous selection process, which required applicants to submit a recent CV and a cover letter articulating their passion and commitment to the workshop, underscored the value of these opportunities. The fact that the tuition fees were waived for selected participants was a significant financial advantage for me as an early-career non-tenured faculty, relieving some of the financial burden and encouraging me to continue my professional development journey. I covered the traveling and accommodation costs for the ICPSR workshops, understanding that the expertise I gained in managing datasets, utilizing strategies, and mathematical modeling is an investment in my future and that of my students. These skills are not just for my research but also the knowledge I can pass on to my students, preparing them for the data-driven world they will enter after graduation.
During my doctoral study at Kent State University, one of my mentors underscored the significance of enhancing my quantitative skills in social sciences, mainly through ICPSR. My mentor’s advice has served as a cornerstone in my journey. Research methods competencies are crucial for conducting research and pave the way for collaborations and projects that may otherwise remain out of reach. The ICPSR workshops honed these skills and empowered me to conduct more robust and impactful research. I hope to instill this sense of empowerment in my students as they embark on independent research journeys.
During the PATH Study Data User Workshop, we explored analyzing long-term data to understand how public policies and personal attitudes are intertwined and shift over time. This firsthand experience resonated with my research interests. I offered perspectives to integrate into my teaching, especially in my upcoming “Public Policy, in the Age of Big Data; Theory and Practice” course for Fall 2024. By incorporating these insights into my curriculum, I hope to inspire students to explore how big data influences public policy decisions and equip them with research skills.
Another summer’s highlight was participating in the Mathematical Sciences in Obesity Research workshop organized by Indiana University School of Public Health Bloomington, sponsored by the NIH. This workshop brought together public health, public policy, and data science, highlighting an approach to addressing complex health issues such as obesity. Attending the workshop gave me a foundation in modeling techniques used in obesity research. This was especially beneficial as I explored deeper into utilizing data science to shape policy. I am also grateful to the organizers for the generous grant covering my travel, accommodation, and registration fees.
Apart from focusing on my continuous learning and professional development journey this summer, I also served as a mentor, presenter, and discussant for the 2024 MPSA conference. At the 2024 Midwest Political Science Association (MPSA) conference, I engaged in the MPSA Mentoring Reception, an event aimed at connecting emerging researchers with professionals in the field. This mentoring experience proved transformative for me as a mentor and the mentees with whom I had the privilege of sharing ideas. One memorable mentee was a Ph.D. student from Loyola University Chicago who made strides in her career through our insightful conversations during our mentoring sessions. We discussed the importance of engaging with literature by writing book reviews. Publishing book reviews as a student helps build their publication record and enhances their deep understanding of the field. After our discussion, she eagerly seized the opportunity, worked hard, and got a book review published in the renowned journal Democratization. Her accomplishment, focus, and passion marked a milestone, highlighting supportive mentorship’s positive influence on budding scholars. MPSA provided a meaningful opportunity to collaborate and learn how Wikipedia could facilitate objective and evidenced-based information dissemination, and I made fantastic connections with the Wiki Education team. I was invited as a guest speaker for the August Wiki Education Speaker Series. I entirely credit MPSA for facilitating WIKI education courses and building a sustainable network with Wiki Education.
The MPSA 2024 was more than just an academic conference; it was a vibrant platform for intellectual exchange. Interacting with university researchers and sharing ideas in informal settings broadened my perspective and inspired me to explore interdisciplinary approaches in my research. The connections forged at MPSA have already yielded results paving the way for collaborations and future research prospects. Drawing on my recent workshopping, short courses, and training experiences, I’d like to share some tips for getting the most out of workshops, training, and short courses as a job seeker or new professional.
Finding the Balance
I strongly encourage a balance between professional development engagement and personal well-being, which is essential amidst the demanding nature of development and mentorship activities. I made it a point to dedicate quality time to my family and engage in outdoor activities. This equilibrium holds significance for early career academics who often navigate responsibilities simultaneously. During the summer faculty tour organized by my university, I enjoyed the marvelous views of Chattanooga. I spent my summer with my family, and we did outdoor activities, such as fishing, gardening, and harvesting fresh vegetables. Personal mental health and the support of family and friends are particularly important in moving forward as a whole human being. Taking time for relaxation and introspection is crucial for our well-being and helps us to recharge before diving into our duties with a fresh perspective.
Knowledge: A Duty and a Privilege
I believe in the power of collaborative teaching and mentorship. Reflecting on my summer activities and engagements, it is my duty to share the knowledge I have gained with my students, peers, or fellow early-career academics. The workshops, conferences, and mentoring sessions were avenues for growth and opportunities to contribute to the community and support upcoming scholars.
I am a visiting assistant professor at the Department of Political Science and Public Service at the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga. The journey to success can seem uncertain for early-career faculty members searching for more permanent positions. Nevertheless, we can navigate this path confidently by embracing learning opportunities, cultivating professional connections, and balancing work and personal life. My summer experiences have strengthened my belief in the power of continuous learning and community and underscored the significance of investing in professional growth and unwavering commitment to serving.
Commitment to Continuous Learning
I suggest my fellow early career academics actively pursue and embrace professional development opportunities alongside full-time job search, research, publications, and department services. Additionally, there are avenues for financial support and scholarships available to support your participation because the organizers understand our struggles and uncertainties. Most likely, the organizers have walked in our shoes before. Therefore, I strongly advise seeking volunteering opportunities as a Tech Assistant, session organizer, note taker, or greeter and taking on tasks so organizers may reduce or waive registration fees and provide some financial support. The skills and connections cultivated through professional development opportunities are priceless and will yield benefits in the long term.
I acknowledge that navigating an early career path comes with challenges, but it also brings abundant prospects for development, learning, and collaboration. By embracing these possibilities, we drive our careers forward, enrich the community, and significantly enhance the educational experiences of our students. As we move together, let one another share triumphs and setbacks and work towards a future where knowledge flourishes through collaboration.
About the Author
Dr. Muhammad Hassan Bin Afzal (He/Him) is a Visiting Assistant Professor at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where he teaches American Politics, Research Methods, American Foreign Policy, Capstone Seminar, and Public Policy in the Age of Big Data. He holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from Kent State University, an MBA from Idaho State University, and an MS in Information Technology from the University of Dhaka. His research interests are public opinion, immigration policy, voting behavior, and the role of mental health in academia. Dr. Afzal has taught at Kent State University and UTC and is passionate about undergraduate research, mentorship, and professional development. More about his work can be found on his Google Scholar or ORCiD profile.