To become a physics professor, a postgraduate degree is essential, along with teaching experience and a positive reputation among colleagues and administration. While the title "professor" typically denotes a senior tenured position, teaching at the college level can also be achieved without this title, as many doctoral and post-doctoral candidates engage in teaching roles. Key personal attributes for success include strong people skills, resilience, and a passion for the subject matter. Advancement in academia requires a solid academic record, successful research endeavors, and publication of work, as teaching ability is often not the primary criterion for professor selection.