This is in response to Rochelle’s Weekly Photo Prompt for Friday Fictioneers.
Word Count: 100
The cryptic note read “Meet me at Shelly’s”.
Taken aback, I thought why could it not be the University? Library? Staff room? Auditorium?
I was cautioned about his “reputation” before.
But a renowned scholar himself offering to be my guide and mentor- I was overjoyed.
Despite all the misgivings, I arrived on time well prepared with notes, references, drafts and queries…
And waited…till it did not make sense any longer.
I knew his excuse would be undebatable.
And of course I‘d understand
At the expense of my Phd thesis.
90 Words
You can read the other stories here.
Author’s Note:
The flash fiction is based on experiences shared by Phd students who complained of the unnecessary delay in completion of their theses on account of whimsical mentors.
However, a sweeping generalization in this regard would also be inexcusable because there are many who are extremely cooperative, helpful and sincere in guiding their students.
I travelled 100 kms on my own to sign submission copy of thesis of my student. I returned my guide ship, unable to cope up with bad practices. I’m a referee on panel of many universities. I lead a happy life without those fake honours and corrupt practices. 🌷
LikeLiked by 1 person
Rajendraji, you belong in the category of rare and exceptional homo species. The world is populated by many kinds of course they are not in your league.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What to do Geeta Ji!
Somehow, I have managed to survive !
Thesis I wrote of my friend who forgot me and credit went to other friend who is her guide.
Other thesis I wrote that student on my strict suggestions left me as a guide and credit of that thesis also went to other guide. One more student too died of alcohol and his wife took my sign in his thesis which could not be submitted. At last all my energies are being spent on WP here. Nothing is false in what I told you. 🌷
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very sad indeed
LikeLiked by 1 person
This makes it less sad, someone of intellectual and moral worth to feel the deliberately drawn loss on purpose, to get freedom from the corrupt practices. As a referee, I sent reports of many deserving candidates like one Dr Rauf (who teaches in UAE and after sending reports 6 years ago, is still connected to me) or Dr Chithra in Madurai whose Ph D was stuck for years. I’m really happy sharing these things under most eligible post in this regard that you wrote.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Rajendraji,
So there are students who still look up to you, keep in touch with you and respect you.
This is the greatest treasure that you have accumulated in life. Don’t focus on those who did not understand your worth.
Regards
LikeLike
He sounds to be something of a charmer. And unreliable too.
LikeLike
Wha a dilemma
LikeLiked by 1 person
Truly, Derrick. Many students are caught in this.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well done, Geeta. And shame on these professors who don’t give a hoot about the students.
My friend’s son was in a different situation. His died! And his field is so specialised, they could not find another for him to defend his thesis against!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh! What a terrible loss. Another grim side of the tale.
LikeLiked by 1 person
They finally did find a solution but he was on ternderhooks for a good while
LikeLiked by 1 person
I can well imagine Dale. Thanks for sharing the story and thanks for your appreciation.
LikeLiked by 1 person
😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Geeta, students are vulnerable to so many things. It is quite an achievement to reach graduation and move beyond student debt.
LikeLiked by 1 person
In our part of the world graduation is just one stepping stone. Masters is the next. Then MPhil and then research for Phd. And cost of education is very high as well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Monstrous ego is not an unknown thing in academe
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes and also some have the tendency to take advantage of superiority.
LikeLike
That one stings.
All that preparation, all that hope… and then just waiting.
I have seen it happen too. A HOD has this habit of sitting on thesis approvals, and the students paid the price. Careers paused, confidence shaken.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yes, it happens unfortunately. The HODs don’t realise the damage they are doing to their students’ morale.
LikeLiked by 1 person
These egoistic professors are a reason for increasing suicide rate of students.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are correct Nusrat. I did not mention it but it’s the dark side of academics.
LikeLike
Not only in case of PhD students,but we witness the alarming rate of suicide among students of premier IITs,medical colleges and even in coaching institutes.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wrong choice of subject, peer pressure , parental pressure, stiff competition, marks and grades mania – life is very tough for these kids.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great write Gerta there can be a dark side to academia 🙌
LikeLiked by 1 person
Quite right Ange. There is.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good take Geeta.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Sadje
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re very welcome
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, you have hit on a theme, where at times we are all frustrated by relying on others who are indifferent in their attitudes.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That reliance is killing James. That too indifference in the position of responsibility.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sounds like a true professorial blowhard. What a boor.
LikeLiked by 1 person
They are also part of our world Nancy
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve met both sorts, supportive and blasé… or too busy with their ‘real calling’ to care much for their teaching/supervising duties. The story is spot on. That poor kid will at least learn self-reliance.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reading this and some of the comments makes me pleased that I was a complete failure at school and never reached for higher levels!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You were saved
LikeLike
An excellent take, Geeta!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much Chris.
LikeLiked by 1 person
a wonderful story GC! I did enjoy this one!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you very much Carol Anne
LikeLike