@Derp said:

But it wouldn't be a gamble if there weren't some degree of risk. 🙂

I represent all sorts of parties, and do insurance defense work as well. Where there is risk, there is always a warning. Here, there's a huge warning. It's hard to become a professor if you don't have the right practical experience, and fellowships and practicum work will not cut it. At least, in my opinion.

Judging from my professors, I'll bet a lot of them got their positions after fellowships and practicum work.