In this presentation, Dr. Ruiz will share a few tricks of the trade, including the best advice she has received during her 34 years in the academy. With a dose of humor, she will outline 21 straightforward steps for focusing on scholarship, striving for comfort in the classroom, and participating in campus life. At the same time, junior faculty must set goals, set boundaries, and create a life beyond the university. Remember, if faculty were married to the institution, it would be an abusive relationship. Settling into an academic career is not just about managing your time, but also finding moments of joy in your research, your students, and even your service.