Not good

[AP limbo]

Two issues. New AP here, got a job at a place that's highly regarded. But mre than once it was implied to me that I was a disappointment... Esp because I'm published in more than one area, and they hired me for something I don't do at the moment...

First issue is that I am miserable. I know this is a common experience for the first year on the job, but I am teaching and that's it... In fact, very little of whatever is happening in soc interests me anymore

Second, I pivoted to marketable topics to be successful on the market, but now I'm on a situation where I can neither keep doing what i did premarket, nor pivot back to what used to interest me. So what to do? Well, when I do have hope, it means usually to get back to doing something interesting at any cost, then move, because my current record doesn't show enough work in the areas I want.

But then how to produce that stuff in this environment? Can I move first? Anyone experienced this as AP?

[peoplematter]

I'm sorry to hear that. I'm still a job market candidate and had a few interviews. The most "prestigious" places I interviewed were also the places I would probably be the least happy. A higher percentage of the people I met at these places just seemed insufferable. Basically, the people you work with matter A LOT. So if you don't like the people, the job quality will suffer IMO. It's hard to move, especially in this market, but possible. Ask profs that have done it. Good luck.

[Hey!]

I don't have great advice. But I just wanna say that I totally understand your situation. It sucks. It really is. All the best to you!

[It gets better]

My first year as an AP absolutely sucked. I'm now a couple more years in and I promise it gets better albeit slowly. The first year I got basically nothing done besides teaching and felt completely burnt out and uninterested in sociology. Just know that this is normal and many people's experience. Give it a bit of time and then reevaluate.

[AP limbo]

Thanks all. I did hear that it gets better, multiple times. The issue I suppose is that on top of being a new AP, it is a terrible fit in a hostile environment, in a market without options (you get a job in this market, if you're lucky). I will give it time of course, since there are no options