Department Goings

Our department is hiring.  In my specialty field.  Gotta look the part of the polished grad student when the candidates are on campus for job talks - in other words, fake them out of noticing my lack of progress.

My Look:  Dress by JCrew.  Sweater by Ralph Lauren.  Belt by JCrew.  Shoes by Naturalizer via Macys.  Bracelets are heirloom (from L: paternal grandmother, mom, great-grandmother, maternal grandmother).  Earrings by Gorjana via GILT.

I love going back to campus these days - everything seems shiny and new, and I've forgotten all the frustrations of being there all the time taking classes and teaching.  It's fun to see old friends and colleagues and professors, even when I'm dreading the inevitable question...

"So, how's the writing going?"  Gulp.

As an almost-absentee dissertation-phase student, I feel like it's even more important that my sartorial choices for campus visits reflect confidence.  Not only do I need the armor of a good outfit for my own psyche, but I think that my clothes project how I'm doing overall.  Those of us who are academics and also like clothes have talked a lot about how clothes become a symbol of self.  Personally, I can remember what I wore to every conference presentation, to every first day of teaching, and even to take my comprehensive exams.  Those clothes speak to me, or perhaps for me.

Heading back to campus, I felt like I needed to project a have-it-togetherness that was both scholarly and professional.  No blazer - I tried one, and it felt forced and overdressed for an afternoon lecture.  Heels - but not too high.  Hair pulled back to assert some professionalism - but in a high bun with blunt bangs.  Some subtle "professorial" textures - the leather shoulder patch and wool plaid belt.  All of my heirloom bangles - the spirits of the strong women who gave them to me keep me strong.  And red lips - always red lips for a striking but classy finishing touch.  And yes, my belt has a beagle on it.

Sometimes I forget how much I love my job and my life choice.  Being back on campus was an excellent reminder.

A plea to keep voting for this grad student mama!  I'm at #26 - so close and yet SO far!