higher education & academia
Luck and the Waiting Game
In the scramble for limited funding, it’s a game of hurry up and wait — for students and departments alike. Column on the Education page of the Scotsman.
Venture-Capitalism and Higher Education
In many sectors, we invest in the areas that promise the greatest short-term rewards. Is this an appropriate model for educational funding? Column on the Education page of the Scotsman.
Procrastination
The important role of procrastination in the intellectual process: maybe it’s not just laziness. Column on the Education page of the Scotsman.
Fundraising and Pride
The reality of American universities’ fundraising strategies…. Does Scotland really want to cultivate a “culture of giving?” Column on the Education page of the Scotsman.
Anorexia in Academia
In the high-pressure environment of universities, some students develop eating disorders to gain a sense of control. Column on the Education page of the Scotsman.
Just the Right Place
After a formidable search through the social science departments of Scotland, I found the perfect fit: a place with radical politics, a visionary attitude, and helpful people. Column on the Education page of the Scotsman.
Funding
The politics of funding for international students: subsidising the wealthy and excluding the poor in a country that wants “fresh talent.” Column on the Education page of the Scotsman.
What’s it for?
Reflections on the wider purposes of higher education, beyond vocational training. Column on the Education page of the Scotsman.
Looking Ahead
Reflections at the start of my PhD. Column on the Education page of the Scotsman.
Indentured Servitude: The Real Tragedy of Student Debt
My personal experience with student debt, and the wider politics it reveals. Published in WireTap Magazine, and on AlterNet.
Tuition Fees Create a Debtor’s Prison
The reality of student debt in America, its effects on wider society, and hard questions for Scotland. Published in the Scotsman.
The Reality Gap
Grant allocations, double standards, and student advice websites.
Danger of Top-Up Fees
Warning that student debt brings heavy social burdens. Letter to the Editor in the Scotsman.