Navigating an Unsupportive Academic Environment: A Survival Story

Manousos A. Klados
Jun 2
3 min read

When I first stepped into the world of academia, I imagined a place filled with inspiration, mentorship, and camaraderie. I thought it would be a space where ideas flowed freely and where I could grow surrounded by people who wanted the best for me. But soon, I realized that the reality wasn’t always so rosy.

The academic environment can be a tough one. Sometimes, it’s not about the love of learning or the thrill of discovery — it’s about politics, competition, and a relentless push to perform. I’ve seen colleagues struggle to find mentors who genuinely cared, others facing subtle (or not-so-subtle) discrimination, and many drowning in workloads that left no room for creativity or self-care. I’ve lived it, too.

But here’s the thing: while you can’t always change the system around you, you can learn how to navigate it. Here’s what I’ve learned about surviving — and even thriving — in an unsupportive academic world.

Finding Your People

When it feels like you’re on your own, remember you’re not. I found solace in my peers — those who were going through the same struggles, those who understood the pressures without me having to explain. Sometimes we met over coffee, other times it was just a quick exchange of texts or a shared eye-roll during a meeting. These little connections made all the difference.

If I couldn’t find mentors within my department, I looked outside. Conferences, online academic communities, and even Twitter became places where I found guidance and encouragement. These external mentors didn’t just offer advice — they reminded me that I was part of a bigger world, one that wasn’t limited to the walls of my institution.

Guarding Your Well-being

At one point, I realized I was working late into the night, skipping meals, and feeling constantly anxious. It dawned on me that no amount of hard work was worth sacrificing my health. So, I started setting boundaries. I stopped answering emails at all hours. I prioritized sleep and exercise. I learned to say no — even when it felt uncomfortable.

I also sought help. Counseling services, support groups, and trusted friends became lifelines when things felt overwhelming. It wasn’t easy to admit I needed support, but doing so helped me regain control.

Crafting Your Own Path

I began keeping a record of my achievements — big and small. Every paper submitted, every student I mentored, every positive piece of feedback. This wasn’t just for performance reviews; it was a reminder of my own progress, a way to combat the inner critic that thrived in a hostile environment.

When conflicts arose — and they did — I learned how to speak up for myself. I practiced how to stay calm, how to state my needs clearly, and how to push back against unreasonable demands. These weren’t skills I was taught in graduate school, but they were crucial for survival.

And slowly, I reconnected with why I was in academia to begin with. I remembered the curiosity that drove me, the students I wanted to inspire, and the impact I hoped to make through my work. That sense of purpose became my anchor.

Knowing When to Move On

There came a time when I had to ask myself the hardest question: Was staying worth it? For some, the answer will be yes. For others, including me, the answer was no. I started exploring options outside academia — industry roles, nonprofits, even entrepreneurship. I realized that the skills I’d honed — research, critical thinking, project management — were valuable far beyond university walls.

Leaving wasn’t a failure; it was a choice. It was reclaiming my well-being and finding a place where I could grow, be supported, and thrive.

The Takeaway

If you’re feeling stuck in an unsupportive academic environment, know this: you’re not alone, and there is a way forward. Build your own support network, set boundaries, document your progress, and stay true to your goals. And if the environment is toxic beyond repair, give yourself permission to leave.

Your worth isn’t defined by the system around you. There are spaces where your talents and contributions will be recognized, and where you can truly flourish. Until then, take care of yourself, lean on your allies, and keep your head held high.