Lessons Learned from Humanities@Work: Advanced Degree Alumni Panel

Many graduate students in the humanities begin their PhD programs with the assumption—or hope—that they are training for a career in academia. However, the reality of the job market, personal priorities, and evolving interests and values often lead to reflections about careers outside the professoriate. During a recent panel discussion hosted by our office, we explored the complexities, opportunities, and mental shifts involved in pursuing careers beyond academia. For this discussion we were honored to welcome

• Samuel Ewing PhD (History of Art & Architecture), Union Field Organizer, UAW

• Erin Henry PhD (Organizational Behavior), Leadership Advisory Consultant, Spencer Stuart

• Matthew Sohm PhD (History), Assistant Director, Intellectual Vitality Initiatives, Office of Undergraduate Education, Harvard University

• Moderator: Sophia Mao PhD (English Languages & Literatures), Educational Pedagogy & Research, Harvard University

Here’s a summary of the panelists’ insights, framed by the questions we discussed.

What Factors Led You to Begin Thinking About a Nonacademic Career?

For one panelist, a pivotal moment came during their third-year review when their program director and chair outlined the long path ahead, from completing the program to securing tenure. “I could feel my whole body collapse,” they recalled. “It made me reflect deeply: What do I want? What truly matters to me?” They realized their initial desire to “impact a generation of leaders” could be fulfilled in many ways beyond a tenure-track role.

Another panelist, trained in art history, began thinking seriously about nonacademic careers in their fifth year. “I loved my research, but the thought of chasing tenure-track positions across the country didn’t align with what I wanted for my life,” they shared. They explored museum work, a natural extension of their training, but also sought advice from mentors outside their department who helped them imagine broader possibilities.

Both panelists emphasized the value of reflection. One spoke about writing a “future bio” as a way to envision what they wanted their life to look like in a few years. Another highlighted the importance of thinking beyond academia’s “golden ticket” and considering what a fulfilling career and life could look like holistically.

What Actions Did You Take During Grad School to Prepare for a Possible Transition?

Preparation looked different for each panelist, but there were common threads of networking, skill-building, and strategic exploration.

One panelist prioritized relationships, cultivating connections with people whose professional networks aligned with their interests. They also took teaching seriously, recognizing it as a valuable skill beyond academia. “Don’t think of teaching as just a way to get paid—it’s an opportunity to build transferable skills in communication, mentorship, and leadership.”

Another panelist took advantage of institutional resources, such as workshops and networking events, and reached out to friends of friends and LinkedIn connections. “People love talking about their work,” they noted. “It’s easier than you think to have these conversations, and they can be transformative for your career planning.” They also encouraged joining broader communities, such as graduate student unions, to expand their network beyond departmental boundaries.

The panelists agreed that updating their resumes and gaining experience outside of their dissertation work—whether through internships, committee roles, or other projects—helped bridge the gap between academic training and future opportunities.

What Mental and Psychological Shifts Did You Make?

One of the most challenging aspects of exploring nonacademic careers is letting go of the assumption that a PhD is solely preparation for a tenure-track job. “There has to be a moment where you embrace that this is your life,” one panelist shared. “You’ve accomplished so much already, and you have so much more to give. Now it’s about where you can have the impact you want to make.”

Another panelist echoed this, describing how they reframed their identity: “I de-prioritized the credential and focused on my values—what I wanted from my life and what I found important. It’s a psychological shift from thinking about where you ‘fit’ in academia to defining yourself on your own terms.”

The panelists highlighted the importance of dreaming big and being resilient in the face of others’ expectations. One recommended sketching out an “ideal day” to clarify what brings satisfaction, which can serve as a foundation for exploring careers aligned with personal values.

What Role Has Networking Played in Your Career?

Networking was unanimously described as essential, though the panelists acknowledged it can feel daunting. One shared a helpful psychological hack: “Instead of thinking of networking as ‘working a room,’ think of it as meeting interesting people and finding ways to help them. That mindset has made networking more fun and fruitful for me.”

Another pointed out that PhDs are naturally curious and adept at asking good questions, which makes them well-suited to building professional relationships. “Reach out to people you admire, even if they’re friends of friends. Many people enjoy talking about their work—it makes them feel valued.”

The panelists emphasized the hidden job market, noting that many roles are filled through connections rather than formal postings. Networking not only helps uncover these opportunities but also allows you to refine your career narrative and test the market.

What Special Skills Do Humanists Bring to Nonacademic Settings?

The panelists highlighted several skills that humanities PhDs leverage beyond the academy:

  • Learning Agility: “The ability to learn quickly and adapt is invaluable in any role,” one panelist said.
  • Translation: Humanities scholars excel at bridging disciplines and communicating complex ideas to diverse audiences.
  • Curiosity and Big-Picture Thinking: “Our training teaches us to ask meaningful questions and think critically about the world,” another added.
  • Communication and Narrative Building: Crafting compelling stories, whether in writing or conversation, is a skill that opens doors in many industries.

Final Thoughts

The panel concluded with a message of encouragement: transitioning beyond academia is challenging but also deeply rewarding. One panelist reminded the audience, “It will all work out. Go back to the impact you want to make in the world and be open to trying new things along the way.”

Whether you’re in the early stages of your PhD or nearing the finish line, know that your skills, values, and experiences are valuable. Be kind to yourself, seek support from your networks, and stay open to the possibilities ahead.

By Caroline Rende
Caroline Rende Associate Director of Graduate Career Exploration