After completing my undergraduate and postgraduate degrees whilst working in retail and the public sector, I secured funded doctoral study at the University of Derby. During my PhD, I gained teaching and marking experience, became an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, and worked as an Associate Lecturer across two institutions. I tried to make the most of my circumstances.
For example, I completed all my data collection and submitted my PhD in three years, despite the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic and homeschooling. Navigating these multiple roles as a single mother was both invigorating and challenging. I quickly learned that progressing in academia is often part luck, part action.
Being open to opportunities, willing to keep going when things got complicated, and ready to act when doors opened proved invaluable for my professional development and ultimately for securing a permanent lectureship.
Here are some of the tips I learned along the way.
1. Say yes to opportunities, even the small ones.
During my PhD, I embraced every chance to teach, mark, guest lecture, and engage in research. I attended conferences when funding and childcare allowed, and although it could be tiring, these experiences were invaluable for developing professional skills and networking opportunities. They provided a strong foundation for future lectureship applications and shaped my approach to academic life.
2. Take advantage of professional training.
Whilst juggling teaching and research, I completed the University of Derby’s pathway course to achieve Associate Fellowship with Advance HE. Even if the roles you apply for later ask for a full fellowship, having this demonstrates a commitment to learning and development.
3. Show what you can do, not just what you hope to do.
When applying for positions, draw on examples from your teaching, research or projects in your CV, cover letter and interviews. Then make sure you tailor this to the job description directly. Demonstrate both what you’ve already achieved and your willingness to grow to make a strong impression.
4. Learn about each institution before you apply.
I kept templates for my CV, cover letter, and personal statement, which saved time, but I realised that institutions often have very similar processes, using slightly different terminology. I always researched the department, staff members, modules, and research areas. This extra effort demonstrated a deeper understanding of the department and role, helping me present a more personal and tailored application.
5. Prepare thoroughly for interviews, but personalise your approach.
Interviews varied from structured presentations to broader discussions. I carefully prepared both my content and delivery, selecting topics I was genuinely passionate about and that aligned with the role. On Teams, interviews often required delivering a presentation and responding to questions in the same session. Planning for both aspects helped me feel confident and allowed me to demonstrate authentic enthusiasm, which left a stronger impression than striving for perfection.
6. Know the role and the people, and leave a memorable impression
Being prepared shows respect for the role and the people you meet. Thoughtful questions make you memorable, and they also give you the opportunity to see if this is a place where you can grow and contribute.
7. Accept the no’s, learn and keep going.
My first interview was on Teams, and no one but me had their cameras on. I got no feedback, which was disheartening. Afterwards, I realised that it probably wasn’t the right fit for me, but I decided to carry on. I secured my lectureship on my seventh interview, with two more lined up afterwards. In my sixth interview, I genuinely enjoyed the process and even received a phone call telling me that the panel thought I would have been a great fit and had an excellent career ahead; the other candidate just had slightly more experience. Experiences like these gave me the confidence and courage to keep applying.
Lessons Learned
Practice Self-Care
Navigating Higher Education is as much about managing your energy and well-being as it is about meeting deadlines. After securing my lectureship in September 2022, I took on module leadership and a year tutor role. Following my viva in March 2023, I had a year to complete major corrections on my PhD. Rather than pushing myself to burnout, I requested an extension and, by planning and pacing my work, completed the corrections successfully.
Balancing teaching, research, corrections, and family responsibilities, from taking my children to football to managing everyday life, taught me that self-care is a professional responsibility, not a luxury. My PhD was officially completed in May 2025, reinforcing the value of sustainable work habits for a long-term academic career.
Set Boundaries
Academia demands juggling multiple roles and responsibilities, so setting boundaries is essential. Knowing when to say no, when to delegate, and when to step back allows you to maintain focus and well-being. Pacing work, prioritising tasks, and taking breaks are not signs of weakness; they help you engage fully with the opportunities that matter most. I am still learning this myself, but aligning work with your passions ensures a sustainable and fulfilling career.
Take Inititative
Taking initiative and leadership can also be energising and deeply fulfilling. I recently became Programme Leader for Criminology, a role that provides visibility and experience while requiring careful planning alongside teaching and research. Beyond formal responsibilities, I co-founded the history group Wayward Women, creating guerrilla blue plaques to celebrate overlooked women in history. One of these inspired Lichfield City Council to create a formal blue plaque for Daisy Stuart Shaw, Lichfield’s first female councillor and Mayor, last International Women’s Day. Projects like this combine creativity, scholarship, and activism, and remind me why pursuing work that energises you matters.
Seek Mentors
The sector continues to evolve, with restructuring, financial pressures, and recruitment freezes making progression more competitive. In this context, mentorship has been invaluable. Seeking advice from those you admire and building supportive professional relationships has helped me navigate challenges, while offering guidance to others has been equally rewarding.
Ultimately, navigating Higher Education effectively combines mentorship, self-care, boundaries, and passion. Understanding the system, making strategic choices, and protecting your well-being allows you to grow your career sustainably, engage in work that inspires you, and most importantly, keep students at the heart of everything you do.
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