The adjunct professorship, traditionally seen as a transitional or supplementary role within academia, often exists in the shadows of its tenured counterparts. Many view it as a stepping stone, perhaps a temporary arrangement before a full-time appointment, or a way to augment income for those passionate about teaching but engaged elsewhere. These faculty members are often part-time, juggling their commitments in the classroom with other professional or personal endeavors.
However, what's frequently overlooked are the hidden gems that come with the adjunct title, gems that extend far beyond income. While the adjunct journey is not without its challenges, the position has a range of benefits that can be deeply enriching both personally and professionally. Inspired by Aaron Blight, an adjunct professor from Shenandoah University, this article is Part I of a reflection on his following list:
The Joy of Pure Teaching & Impact on Students
At its very heart, academia lies in the imparting and acquisition of knowledge. But we know that it’s so much more than that. Adjunct professors are positioned uniquely within this ecosystem. Unlike their full-time peers who might find themselves entangled in grant applications, departmental meetings, and administrative tasks, adjuncts can channel their energies singularly into the art and craft of teaching.
This focus brings a purity in the educator-student relationship. Without the diversions of administrative obligations, adjunct professors often have the luxury to be more present in the classroom, more attuned to the individual needs of their students, and more flexible in their pedagogical approaches. The classroom becomes a dynamic space of learning, where discussions are organic, and the mutual passion for the subject matter becomes evident.
This connection means that adjuncts can often become mentors in a more profound sense. They have the capacity and the inclination to listen, advise, and guide, offering their students not just academic guidance but also life lessons. The bonds forged in such an atmosphere can last a lifetime, with students often recalling the profound impact an adjunct professor had on their academic journey and beyond.
The journey of learning is also as much about the traveler as it is about the guide. While students are on an academic voyage with aspirations and dreams, the guidance provided by educators, especially adjunct professors, can illuminate their paths in extraordinary ways.
Their teachings, rooted in both academic rigor and real-world experience, provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical wisdom. In this way, they shape not just the intellect, but also the attitudes, beliefs, and values of their students.
For example, an adjunct with a background in environmental activism might teach biology not just as a science of life, but also instill the importance of conservation, sustainability, and responsible living. Another, with a career in journalism, might infuse a literature class with insights on media literacy, critical thinking, and the power of narrative. It's through these multifaceted engagements that adjunct professors leave a lasting imprint.
The “Pay it Forward” Philosophy
Adjunct professors often find themselves in the privileged position of "paying it forward" in its purest form. For many educators, this isn't just a job, but a calling. And for adjunct professors, who often juggle their academic roles with other professional pursuits, this satisfaction is magnified. They get to experience the immediate, tangible impact of their teachings, and this becomes a motivating force, driving them to give their best in every lecture, discussion, and mentoring session.
The adjunct position also offers a unique platform to give back to the academic community. For those who have benefitted from the guidance of inspiring educators during their own academic journeys, becoming an adjunct is a way to come full circle. It allows them to contribute directly to the educational ecosystem, fostering the next wave of thinkers, innovators, and leaders.
Whether it's by introducing students to the latest industry practices, mentoring them on groundbreaking research, or simply being a guiding figure during crucial academic junctures, adjunct professors play a vital role in enriching and advancing the academic community.
The "pay it forward" philosophy is not just a concept, but a lived experience for many adjuncts. It's a continuous cycle of learning, teaching, and inspiring.
Access to Knowledge: The University Library and Beyond
Adjunct professors, despite their part-time status in some institutions, are typically afforded the same access to university resources as their full-time counterparts. One of the most invaluable of these resources is the university library.
The modern university library isn't just a collection of books; it's a hub of information. From the latest research journals, databases, and digital archives to specialized collections and multimedia resources, the breadth and depth of material available can be staggering. For adjuncts, this means direct access to a wealth of knowledge that can be integrated into their curriculum, ensuring that their courses are up-to-date and relevant.
But beyond just academic purposes, the resources at the library offer a chance for personal growth. Whether it's learning a new skill, diving deep into a topic of personal interest, or exploring interdisciplinary fields, the library paves the way for continuous learning.
Additionally, many universities provide adjuncts with online access to their digital resources, making it convenient to conduct research, prepare for classes, or simply explore topics of interest from anywhere.
Evading the "Publish or Perish" Pressure
The academic world is multifaceted, with each role coming with its set of expectations and demands. One of the most intense pressures facing tenured and tenure-track faculty is the "publish or perish" mantra. It's a scenario where continuous research publication becomes not just a marker of success but a necessity for career progression and even job security. This drive to constantly produce research, while vital for the academic community, can be taxing, leading to stress and often diverting attention from classroom teaching.
In contrast, adjunct roles offer a breather from this relentless pace. While research is still valued and often encouraged, adjunct professors are not typically bound by the stringent publishing quotas that their tenured peers might face. This provides a more relaxed academic environment, where the focus can be channeled more towards quality teaching rather than juggling teaching with the persistent anxiety of research deadlines.
The true benefit here is twofold. First, adjuncts can enjoy a healthier work-life balance, one less dominated by the race to publish and more attuned to the joy of teaching. Second, students stand to gain from instructors who are more present, more available, and not constantly under the weight of publication pressures.
While research is a cornerstone of academia, the adjunct role offers a unique space where teaching can take center stage, ensuring that the educational experience is rich, engaging, and less fractured by external pressures. This dynamic not only enhances the classroom experience, but also underscores the value of having diverse roles within the academic ecosystem, each contributing in its distinct way.
Building a Network: Joining an Academic Community
One of the intangible, yet profoundly impactful, benefits of being an adjunct professor lies in the doors it opens to a vibrant academic community. Universities and colleges are not just centers of learning; they are centers of intellectual exchange, collaboration, and professional growth.
Within the academic sphere, adjunct professors often cross paths with a diverse group of educators, researchers, and professionals. These interactions, whether formal or informal, pave the way for meaningful connections. For example, departmental meetings, although sometimes viewed as routine, can be a goldmine for networking. They offer a platform to discuss new ideas, collaborate on projects, or even just get acquainted with the latest in various academic fields.
Beyond the confines of the institution, adjuncts also have opportunities to attend and present at conferences. These events are more than just academic gatherings; they are venues to meet like-minded professionals, share research, gain feedback, and foster collaborations. Engaging in discussions, attending workshops, or simply being part of the audience can lead to valuable insights and forge connections that might prove beneficial in the future.
While the primary role of an adjunct might be to teach, the position embeds them within a network of academic and professional connections. Actively participating in this community not only enriches their current role, but also lays the foundation for myriad future opportunities.
Concluding Thoughts
The role of an adjunct professor, often seen through a narrow lens of part-time or non-tenure positions, is so much more than that. Instead of viewing an adjunct role as merely a stepping stone or a fallback, recognize it for the wealth of experiences it brings to the table. The adjunct pathway is not just about teaching; it's about growth, impact, community, and so much more.
Next week, we’ll explore Part II of the Overlooked Perks of Being an Adjunct Professor. For potential educators on the fence, it's worth considering this path, not just for its many benefits, but for the profound difference one can make in the lives of countless students and the broader academic community.
Join our community!
At Professors Progress, our mission is to empower adjunct professors through a supportive and nurturing community that conquers academia's challenges, cultivates professional growth, builds confidence, fosters meaningful connections, and promotes teaching excellence through transformative mentorship and collective support. Join us on this dynamic journey of continuous learning and self-discovery in the world of education.
Yours,
Nicole Cacal
Adjunct Professor at the Parsons School of Design
Visiting Associate Professor at the Pratt Institute
