This time, last year, I was a panicky basket case. I had just started my new career in teaching at a local college, teaching courses in law, on a part-time basis, to future paralegals and law
clerks.
Everything was so new – the place, the people, the courses, the routine. I hadn’t worked outside the home in over 3 years, and I felt rusty and nervous about my abilities to take on this new role with vigor.
This September, it’s different. I’m still nervous about meeting my new students and communicating effectively with them. But, a lot of stuff is much easier:
–I have friends here: wonderful colleagues who I’m eager to see and chat with. We have lunch together, laugh together and I am so grateful for their support, which has been huge.
–I know my way around the campus. It’s a big place, with many buildings and complex tunnels and pathways. That was a big hurdle last year – I was often late because I was lost or in the wrong place at the wrong time.
–I’m more comfortable leaving my kids. They’re older, all in school and seem largely unaware that I’m not around a couple days a week!
–I’m more efficient at working at home. I take a lot of work home – lesson planning and marking. Last year, I attempted to work at night, but soon realised that I was too tired at the end of dinner, bath and bedtime to actually get anything done. Now I get up early and work before the kids get up. I enjoy my morning coffee and the quiet – a good combo that helps me be productive.
–I don’t get stressed if I can’t answer every student’s question. I know when to say “I don’t know.” and that it’s okay to look it up and have the answer for next class.
I too cope very poorly with change. Your little girl is very wise!
Thanks Christine!
Thanks for sharing that Therese! What area are you teaching in?
Reminds me of tucking my 6yo daughter into bed after the first day of school. She’s not good with change, but I was so proud of how well she’d done, and commented on it, and she said, “And tomorrow will be even better because I know what to expect.” It’s that fear of the unknown that makes change so hard for all of my kids (and me).
Oh lady! I’m so happy this September is proving to be smoother for you. It’s just easier not to feel so tense. Yay for you!! Go get ’em, girl… 😉
Amreen – I’m thrilled for you that you have found your groove and that this September is much more relaxed than last September!!
Best of luck with the coming year!!
I have been exactly where you are (except for the getting up early thing.) While I am starting my fourth year at the university, and love all the people I work with, I am teaching a different course than I am used to. I am so ready for the change and the challenge, but nervous about doing it well.
I am glad you are finding it easier. I hope you have a great semester.