Best of January from HigherEdJobs

Whether you’re actively job searching or simply seeking to excel at your current institution, here are some editor’s picks highlighting issues, trends, and tips from last month that may help you.

Best in Job Search

When AI Makes You Average: Lessons from Our Data Scientist Job Search

Applying for roles has become increasingly competitive, and new tools are changing how candidates show up in the hiring process. Drawing on three recent searches, this article reveals what happens when applicants rely too heavily on AI to create their resumes and cover letters. With hundreds of submissions that looked similar, the search showed how efficiency can sometimes come at the cost of individuality.

Best in Teaching and Faculty

General Education Deserves a Facelift

General education requirements are often seen as hurdles — something to get through, instead of an important part of the college journey. This article takes a look at how colleges and universities can do a better job explaining the value behind general education. By listening to faculty, exploring research, and sharing real stories from the classroom, it shows how these courses help students build community, and get ready for the world beyond their chosen field of study.

Best in Workplace Inclusion

What It’s Like To Lead as a Latina

Latina leaders remain underrepresented in higher education leadership, and those who do reach presidency usually do so as the first at their institution. A recent ACE and TIAA Institute report focused on Latina community college presidents, this article explores the realities of leading while navigating the pressure to assimilate. The piece also challenges institutions and governing boards to move beyond representation and take a more active role in recruiting and supporting Latina leaders.

Best in Community Colleges

The Open Door in the Age of AI: A New Era of Human Learning for Community Colleges

Artificial intelligence is quickly reshaping the economy and the nature of work, and universities face growing pressure to adapt. This article examines how community colleges in particular can align AI with their mission by easing administrative burdens, and helping students navigate workforce change.

Best in Health and Wellbeing

S5 Ep93: What I Learned From My Worst Interview Ever

In this episode, Dr. Joe Brennan joins the podcast to discuss his article “What I Learned From My Worst Interview Ever,” prompts a conversation about power dynamics, red flags, and professionalism in academic hiring. Andy,Kelly, and Brennan unpack how hostile interview behaviors often signal deeper cultural issues, why inappropriate questions matter, and how candidates can protect their confidence while assessing fit. Together, they explore strategies for navigating difficult interviews and reframing bad experiences as valuable insights into whether an institution is truly worth joining.