Month: June 2017

Commencement 2017

vdu-e1455559276836So I did this thing.

I was asked to give a speech at the commencement ceremony for the Political Science faculty, something between 5-7 minutes. I went on for 8 1/2. Honestly, a bit intimidating speaking before a graduating class. And then you sit there, on the stage, with your fellow presenters, while all the students come up to get their diplomas. And every now and again, one would come over and shake our hands as well. I haven’t shaken that many hands in a long time!

Anyway, if you’re interested in what I had to say, there’s a video below.  Continue reading “Commencement 2017” →

Why I teach.

graduation-bannerYesterday, in an offhand conversation, I was asked whether someone should pursue teaching in Lithuania. My immediate response was “not if they want to make a living.” Here, the powers that be are trying to “fix” the education system with all sorts of radical ideas, including combining all of the many and varied universities into three umbrella institutions among others. And yes, there are issues which should be addressed. One of the areas is pay for the faculty. It hasn’t gone up since 2001. In fact, over all, the baristas at the local coffee houses make more money than your average university lecturer. Continue reading “Why I teach.” →