Nearly twenty years ago I interviewed for a postdoctoral position in what was then the Center for Higher Education Policy Analysis led by Bill Tierney. I was confident and nervous at the same time, a perfect combination for a meeting with Bill. I arrived at USC (from the University of Wisconsin-Madison) in my best suit, but no sunglasses. I remember how different the climate felt and squinting most of the day so unaccustomed to California sunshine.
The walk from the parking lot to Waite Phillips Hall was the last opportunity to rehearse what I would say during the interview, but I was distracted by skateboarders, the long line at the coffee shop, and the busyness of the campus. Once in the building, I announced myself and waited for Bill to see me while scanning the materials on the table next to the chair. Bill springs from his office, gives me a once over, and says causally “boy…, you’re over-dressed”. That began my post at what is now known as the Pullias Center for Higher Education.
