You might have guessed by my string of no-cook recipes and festival posts that I haven't done much cooking/baking during the past few weeks. We've had some pretty hot days here in Chicago and honestly, the hotter it is, the less I want to hang out with a blazing oven in my air conditioning-less kitchen. However, that's not the only reason for my lack of posts. The other reason is way more exciting and much higher on the awesomeness scale than the hot, humid weather... I got a new job! Woo-hoo!
For the last five years, I have held both a full-time teaching position at one college and an adjunct position at a second college. My full-time position was one that is often misunderstood and not very highly regarded amongst academics (non-tenure-track, but with the responsibilities of someone who is a tenured professor at an equivalent school); unfortunately, it was also one that came with terrible pay. I'm not going to go into too many details because I've already complained about it enough, but basically, it sucks to hold a full-time faculty position and to also have to work a part-time position on the side.
I've been on and off the job market for the last few years. While I really wanted to leave my full-time school (and to stop working two jobs!), I didn't want to make a lateral move or end up at another school that I disliked. I had a long list of wants/needs that I refused to compromise on - because of that list, my job search was quite limited. I will admit that it was frustrating, but I hung in there and at the end of May, I was offered a coveted tenure-track position at one of the few schools in the area that I had targeted. I gave my notice mid-July and finished up with both jobs last week. Hell yes!!
The last three weeks have passed in a blur of paper grading, finals, packing, lunches with coworkers, and goodbyes to all of my favorite students. In addition to the craziness of finishing up at both schools, I've also been preparing for the start of the new school (training, syllabi, etc.). Now that I'm officially on break (I don't start at my new school until next Wednesday), I have a little time to catch up with everything (yes, I'm actually going to cook something! Yippee!). Also, don't be surprised if I suddenly comment on something you wrote weeks (or possibly months) ago. :-)
BIG CONGRATS, Starr!!! So happy for you. I can only imagine how frustrating it's been... but you stuck it out, and that definitely means something.
ReplyDeleteCheers to you!
I am SO happy for you! I remember the various frustrations you've had, and I realize the ones you blogged about must have only been the tip of the iceberg, so I am thrilled you have been able to leave it all behind. Since my sister has just left her frustrating job of 8 years for a newer happier place, I know very well the relief and joy that comes with such a change. Congratulations!
ReplyDeleteYippee! I'm so happy for you!!
ReplyDeleteHOORAY! Super congrats! I am so happy for you. Finally, you'll be at a place where you're appreciated and that is (I hope) sane!
ReplyDeleteSo happy for you congratulations! You should never compromise when it comes to something as important as a job. I'm glad you hung in there!
ReplyDeleteShort comment bc I'm at work, but: HOORAY!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteOh, you poor dear. Tenure track. Just think of all the work you'll have to do to achieve tenure. Journal articles in prestigious publications; a couple of books written. All in the space of a few years.
ReplyDeleteBut I speak in jest.
Way to go! Congratulations! Best wish!
Congrats!!! I'm so happy to read this, knowing all the stress you've had at the other school!! Tonight, when I have my glass of wine, it'll be in toast to you :)
ReplyDeleteAnd I hear you about the too hot to cook...we've made pizza and ate fresh local veggies and fruit but not much real cooking.
Congratulations, I'm so happy for you! Hope it works out even better than you imagine...
ReplyDeleteCongratulations! I am very happy for you.
ReplyDeleteThat is so awesome!!! I know how much you have wanted this!!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you, everyone!! I am super excited about this new chapter of my life! :-)
ReplyDeleteCongrats!!!!!
ReplyDeleteYou actually sound really relieved and so yay!! Congrats! I'm really happy for you!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations, sounds like a great opportunity!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the new job! Hope it is everything you have wished for :)!
ReplyDelete