Teaching Philosophy: Turning a Leap of Faith into a Dream Job
As I stand on the cusp of teaching my first college class, I’m reminded of the unconventional journey that led me here. Five years ago, I abandoned my plans for a PhD, feeling burnt out and uncertain about my future. After completing my master’s thesis, I ventured into the workforce, determined to find a fulfilling career path.
From Burnout to Breakthrough
I landed a great job at a local college, where I built a respectable portfolio of responsibilities. However, when a job posting for a philosophy professor appeared on the school’s careers page, I felt an unexpected spark of interest. Despite lacking formal teaching experience, I decided to take a chance and reach out to the Chair of the program.
To my surprise, he responded promptly, sharing course outlines and inviting me to submit my CV. I revised my application, highlighting my transferable skills and experience. Instead of a polite rejection, he agreed to meet with me, and we discussed everything from art to existentialism.
Lessons Learned: Seizing Opportunities and Leverage
This unexpected turn of events taught me valuable lessons about job-hunting and growth. Firstly, it’s essential to seek out opportunities for growth and development. In today’s fast-paced market, stagnation can lead to being left behind. Secondly, leveraging existing relationships can be a game-changer. By capitalizing on my connection to the college, I signaled to the department Chair that I was a reliable candidate.
Pushing Through Doubts and Taking the Shot
Lastly, I learned to push through self-doubt and take calculated risks. It’s easy to get discouraged by perceived limitations, but sometimes, taking a chance can lead to unexpected success. As Wayne Gretzky famously said, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” I’m thrilled to have taken the shot and landed my dream job.
Now, as I prepare to meet my students for the first time, I’m excited to embark on this new chapter of my career. It’s a reminder that, with persistence and an open mind, even the most unlikely opportunities can become a reality.
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