the job hunt begins

I spent the morning filling out online applications for full time work. Yep, it’s time to make the leap. I’m still not exactly sure where I’ll land.

One of the applications was for a full time faculty position at my local community college. I’ve been working with first year college students for about 5 years now, in the writing program, and I love it. It is invigorating to support students through the writing process, helping them see the connection between writing and thinking and to value solid communication skills. The students I work with show remarkable growth in the span of one short semester. So, the idea of working as a regular faculty member, with the possibility of working with students over multiple semesters, is exciting. I can see lots of opportunity for collaboration with other instructors across the curriculum.

The other application I submitted was for a long-term PreK-K substitute in the school district where I used to work. I am certified to teach PreK through grade 6, and also have my English Language Learner certification. I see this long-term substitute position as a way to get back to this school department after taking the last year and a half to focus on my family. I also know a few people in that particular school and know it would be a fun place to work, with a strong team ethic.

These seem like very different positions, but what they have in common is teaching. I love to teach. And I want to be in a community where teaching and learning are valued; where professionals work together to support each student in achieving the next level of academic success, no matter what the starting point. Both of these organizations are that sort of learning community.

In the meantime, the university where I have been working as a part time adjunct just sent me a tentative schedule for the spring semester. I am on track to teach two sections of College Writing II, a course I have not yet taught. I love the idea of a new challenge. I also love the Tuesday/Thursday schedule which gives me lots of time away from campus to work on other projects AND the benefit of longer class meeting times so we can go deeper into discussions and have ample workshop time.

With all of these opportunities before me, I have no idea what I’ll be doing in January. I’m not even sure which one to wish for over the others. And who knows what else may come my way in the next few months. Wherever I will be employed in January, I know I’ll be teaching and writing. What could be better than that?

That's my Slice of Life today.

What are you up to?