Pracademic transitions: identity formation and institutional belonging among second-career academics

What is it about?

Many people now become university lecturers after having long careers in business, healthcare, or other industries. These second-career academics (SCAs) bring valuable real-world experience to universities, but they often struggle to fit into academic life. This paper looks at how SCAs develop a sense of belonging and professional identity once they enter academia. By reviewing 84 recent studies, the paper shows that SCAs face challenges such as unclear job expectations, feeling out of place, or having their previous expertise undervalued. It also highlights ways some SCAs successfully combine their past experience with academic responsibilities like teaching and research. The paper proposes a new model showing three types of responses SCAs often take: some try to fully adapt to academic norms, others find ways to balance both identities, and some reject academic expectations altogether. The findings can help universities better support these professionals as they transition into academic roles.

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