One of the most valuable parts of my MA program (probably the most) has been learning directly from faculty. Especially in understanding theory. That’s something I just couldn’t grasp straight from the writings, even with secondary texts. Plus the historical context that I wouldn’t have considered.

Teaching experience has been valuable, in that I’ve learned that I hate it and that I despise the institution of academia in general. Yes, my dreams have been crushed by its greed, bureaucracy, and emphasis on the status quo, but at least I won’t waste 4-6 more years on a PhD.

I love my field. I love writing and research. I like lecturing and being in the classroom. But working within my discipline is like ten percent of my time. The rest is spent on navigating bureaucracy, actual hours spent answering emails, getting shit approved by admin who know nothing about my field, attending pointless meetings, and office politics. And from what I hear it would only get worse. It’s so disappointing. As much as I love my discipline, it’s not worth it.