Hello all. I don't usually do posts like this, but I have encountered somewhat of a professional dilemma. I am in my second year of my PhD program in Adult Ed and work in higher education as a research associate. I was recently offered a position as a career specialist in Student Life with the opportunity to conduct research at some point... Eventually, after the completion of my PhD, I would like to pursue a facility position in Adult Education conducting research in diversity (I know that's pretty general, I'll get more specific once I dive into my dissertation).

What holds more clout regarding a CV and landing a faculty position...

1) Showing that I understand student needs by having experience in career services as a career special with the option to conduct career research.

2) Maintaining my current research associate position, which I assist in data gathering and research in diversity and civic engagement.

3) It really does't mater. Other factors outweigh these types of work experiences.

I know at the end of day the answer is more gray than it is black and white. I would love to hear your thoughts and suggestions you may have with making the transition from staff to faculty.

At my university there are three academic or faculty routes: teaching, research or both. So, for a teaching position you need more teaching experience, for a research position you need publications and an active research portfolio. At this stage of your career, it's best to pursue both so that you can take advantage of whichever career path may come your way in the future. Plus, they often let you teach with no experience but you won't get a research position with no research... So, I'd say 2 is your best option here.