A candidate on the teaching market writes:
I am a cigarette smoker (at least one pack a day), and it occurred to me that this fact, when known, very well could play a role in a hiring decision. I was wondering if you or your readers had any thoughts about this.
Please, if posted, refrain from using my name. I am actually trying to quit, but job-market stress is making it hard.
Interesting question, given how much norms about smoking have changed among professionals, including academics, over the past 25 years--and in the U.S. especially. I'm opening comments. Smokers with pertinent experience who would like to post anonymously may do so, though please include a real e-mail address (that won't appear).