I am typecast

Extra nerd points if you can remember the character’s real name. Need a hint? Initials R.H.

When I worked in China, the local staff called me “professor.” Part of the reason for the nickname was because of my former job in academia. But another factor could have been that “professor” in Chinese is a lot easier to pronounce than my last name in English. But anyway. I didn’t mind the nickname, it was a nice throwback my former career, and besides, it’s a sign of respect.

Last week, the local staff here in Vietnam told me that they have a nickname for me. I never told them about my former career in academia. So it was surprising (but not really) when they told me they have been referring to me as “professor.”

I guess if I have to remind people of something, there are a lot worse things to remind them of. As nicknames go, “professor” isn’t too bad. I would have preferred “Fabio,” but you can’t choose your own nickname. Oh, well.

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