From Student to Adjunct: My First Week of Teaching

Cover image by Trexy Dunnam

This past week, I stepped into a role I would have never thought about 13 years ago. I became an adjunct professor. Yes, you read that right; I am a college instructor. It still gives me chills just saying it. I am in awe with God's faithfulness. I cannot believe that 13 years ago I was a lost immigrant figuring out college to now teaching at one. An R1 institution at that. An R1 institution is a designation given to universities with the highest level of research activity.

One of my first assignments for my class is a reflection paper assignment. I thought I would take my own advice and reflect on my first week as well. I experienced so many feelings this past week. I was excited, nervous, fearful, and doubtful. All of these feelings and emotions changed to a heart of gratitude and faithfulness after my second class. That is all due to my students. They showed up ready to learn. They were so transparent in their reflection papers. They gave me hope and courage. God has blessed me beyond measure with 26 beautiful souls to pour into. They don't know it yet, but they are already my heroes!

It's only been a week, but I think I fell in love with teaching. I can see me doing this for a long time to come. There is so much for them to learn and there is even more for me to learn as I prepare to teach and empower them. I didn't realize that I speak really fast until one of my students asked me to repeat myself twice. I didn't realize I need to pause because some students take notes. Teaching an entire semester is definitely different than doing a workshop or webinar. I am excited for this new challenge!

I asked my students to share a song that describe their first week in college. I have two anthems for my first week. See What the Lord Has Done by Nathaniel Bassey and More than Able by Elevation Worship. I chose more than able because God is certainly more than able to see me through this. See what the Lord has done is such a blessing. Going from student to adjunct is a testimony within itself.

I am beyond grateful for all the small and big ways God continues to show up in my life. I cannot wait to see how God is going to continue showing up for my students and I. Looking forward to taking you on this journey with me.

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Xoxo,

DD