Professionalism in Doctoral Programs

Maintaining

professionalism in academia is so important, especially at the doctoral level. This world of education is small, and you never know who knows who. Recently, I heard a story of a classmate who was supposed to submit work to be peer-reviewed but never did. Then, she accused the peer reviewer of not reaching back and completing said review. This may sound like middle school drama, but no, ladies and gentlemen, it also happens at the highest educational levels. What do you do when a student acts unprofessionally towards you in an academic setting?

While I understand the pressures of the coursework at this doctoral level, one should strive to stay organized and never lash out at classmates, especially when they try to help you. I recently sat in a virtual class where we were asked to present our finalized lessons, and one of my classmates, who had never participated in any Zoom sessions or discussion posts, attempted to present a discussion, not her lesson. Our professor redirected and offered assistance, but the student refused to present the assignment. She was rude to the professor and all of us. She was argumentative, rude, and confused, so I emailed to let her know that the professor was trying to help her so she could present the work she had completed. I received such a rude response that I was in shock. She threatened to take action against me; I am not sure how keyboard bullies expect to follow through with that, but I was trying to assist.

Some students at this level refuse to take accountability for their work and actions. Sadly, education is wasted on people who don't care to earn it.