Tearing down the ivory tower...

In the rarified air of the ivory towers of universities, I find it quite amazing how there is such a culture difference from institution to institution. Personally, I really despise hoity-toity academic ranks and hierarchy; it drives me nuts. I must say though, since I stand between both the two universities closest to my office, that the culture difference is quite stunning. One is welcoming, collaborative, and wants to hear from other voices. The other: callous, uncaring and certainly an attitude of, "Well, can do you do anything useful for us, or what?". It is striking. It makes me wonder why anyone (including myself) would think the latter is such a wonderful organization...