Will retail job experience greatly affect my goal of becoming a professor?

College Majors Education Majors
1

I am a sophomore in college currently in a retail job. I’m not necessarily opposed to working there, however I’m in a very fortunate situation where I’m able to fund my first few years of college without needing the job in the first place. As thankful as I am for the job I have, I want to use my time during these years to study, rather than waste five days a week at a job that may go nowhere. At this point, the only reason I see to continue working there would be to gain retail experience to put on a resume, NOT for the money it provides me.

My question is: How much will that experience gain me down the line when I am ready to start the path towards becoming a professor? Is entry-level/retail job essentially required for a career as a professor, or will my time be better served studying and taking internships?

2

It will not help you get a job as a professor. You will even be advised not to mention it on your CV (resume) because it is irrelevant. Some scholarly areas (like business and criminal justice) do like to see professional experience, but way more advanced than retail experience.

I can almost imagine a scenario in which prior job experience might, maybe, slightly, help you get a job as a graduate assistant. But it seems like such a slender possibility that I can’t recommend it. Spending your time being the best student you can be will be much more profitable.

3

Thank you for the quick and thorough reply, you were very helpful!