Surviving in Professional Careers

Abstract

Once an individual is into career, whether it be as a professor, a practicing physician, or a pharmacist, it may seem that much of the struggle is over and, relatively speaking, it is. However, this does not mean that there are still not obstacles that one must face, especially for women and minority scientists. For example, although the number of minority women entering science careers has increased in recent years, the attrition rates for minority women are higher than for men. This, of course, is due to a number of factors, some of which are similar for minority men as well. For example, the low numbers of minorities in the ranks make “the fit” difficult regardless of gender; however, since men still dominate the faculty ranks, women, and in particular, minority women often find the environment quite uncomfortable, sometimes even hostile. Add to this the fact that women still earn less despite having comparable credentials, it is not surprising that retention is an issue. Paramount to the issue of retention is the need to demonstrate success in one’s discipline whether it is through teaching excellence, research productivity, or extensive service to the school, community, and the discipline. In fact, for many, all three of these are essential in demonstrating success as well as maintaining it.