Although India-centric in places, this list is applicable elsewhere in the academic world.
- (sigh….) the true potential of my talents are realized only in a top research university in the west
- …and I don’t want to apply there because the weather there doesn’t suit my wife
- My research is top notch and is too “fresh” to be recognized and “cited”
- The Renowned Scientist in my field personally said “hi” to me at The Conference
- Due to the nature of my research topic, I require at least a crore (~ 200,000 US $) for experimental facilities to start my research
- (…and) my rejected proposal suggested very “fundamental” ideas, and fell in disfavor with the “practical” reviewers
- My department takes good care of all my academic needs and demands
- There is no hierarchy at my workplace
- I like being placed in multiple committees; it shows I am sought after by my colleagues
- I like to receive advice from my senior colleagues
- I love to work with and guide (advice or supervise) average students; that is the real challenge…
- I am not working for my tenure; I do it for the love of the profession
- The course that I am teaching is the one I always wanted to teach
- I love teaching…
- …in particular, UG kids
- (to students, especially UG kids) I am available anytime in my office
- I left a 100k (usually in US $) job elsewhere to do this…
- …and I never resented it.
- I am not bothered by my friend with an UG degree earning five times more than me
- This is a noble profession
