Summary of Interview of Alison Richard, part two
In this second part of the interview with Alison Richard, she reflects on her transition from Cambridge University to Yale, highlighting the significant cultural and institutional differences she encountered. Richard describes her initial experiences at Yale, particularly the challenge of lecturing to large classes, which was a stark contrast to the one-on-one supervisions she was accustomed to at Cambridge. She recalls her first lecture where she candidly admitted to her students that she was unsure of what she was doing, a moment she found traumatic as it seemed to undermine her authority.
Richard discusses her early years at Yale, emphasizing the friendships and collaborations that shaped her academic journey. She mentions influential colleagues such as Harold Sheffer and Keith Hart, with whom she engaged in intellectually stimulating projects. Richard also touches on the importance of mentorship and how her role as director of graduate studies was particularly demanding due to the emotional needs of students.
The conversation shifts to the nature of academic administration, where Richard reflects on her gradual movement into administrative roles. She describes her experiences as chair of the anthropology department and the complexities of navigating departmental politics, particularly in a diverse field like anthropology. Richard notes that while there may be more centralized authority in American universities, the reality is that effective leadership often relies on persuasion and consensus rather than formal power.
Richard also comments on the evolution of teaching methods and the lack of formal training for lecturers, contrasting her experiences in the U.S. with those in the UK. She expresses a belief in the importance of teaching and the need for better support for educators in developing their skills.
Towards the end of the interview, Richard discusses the historical treatment of women at Cambridge, lamenting the delayed formal recognition of their contributions and the discriminatory practices that persisted for decades. She reflects on the significant changes in the university's demographics and the slow but radical shifts that have occurred over time.
Overall, the interview captures Richard's insights into the academic landscape, the challenges of teaching and administration, and the ongoing evolution of gender equity in higher education.
Presenters/Contributors:
Notable Quotes
— 01:42 — « It was a big leap but it was extraordinarily wonderful and interesting and rich and productive years of my life. »
— 02:09 — « Life is an adventure. »
— 03:02 — « Dog treats are the greatest invention ever. »
— 14:10 — « It's like a band of hunter gatherers; there's no Chief. »
— 17:05 — « It's easier to lead there, but I'm not sure that there is more power or authority. »
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News and Commentary