Chapter 1: The Journey to a Teaching Position

Recently, I received an offer for a full-time teaching role at a college in Raleigh, North Carolina. For context, I have spent the last three years teaching English at a community college, an experience that has truly ignited my passion. Writing has always been my calling, but teaching has become an essential part of my identity.

Over the past couple of years, I have been applying for full-time positions, as the pay for adjunct faculty is dismally low. While I understand the idea of “working your way up,” the academic environment has shifted significantly, with many institutions preferring to hire adjuncts to cut costs. You can read more about this trend here:

Editorial: U.S. colleges are overusing - and underpaying - adjunct professors As much as 70% of faculty at U.S. higher educational institutions are contract workers without benefits or job…

www.latimes.com

Initially, I faced numerous rejections while competing against countless other adjuncts for a limited number of positions. Those rejections stung, but I knew persistence was key. During the latest hiring season, which runs from February to June, I started receiving interview invitations. My resume boasts a Master’s in Writing and strong references, including endorsements from former and current Deans.

Among the various interviews I attended, the one in Raleigh particularly resonated with me, prompting me to focus my efforts there instead of pursuing other opportunities. Finally, I received the call I had longed for: I got the job! I was ecstatic and began planning how to make this transition work for my family.

However, the reality of moving became clear as I examined the cost of living in Raleigh. While some might find the move manageable, the jump from East Tennessee felt daunting. Although we had savings from selling our previous home and the flexibility to adapt, I ultimately decided to decline the position.

You might wonder, “Why would you turn down such an opportunity?” The answer is simple: I have more than just my aspirations to consider. I have a three-year-old daughter who would be separated from her extended family, a husband who recently obtained his REALTOR license and is building his business, and a supportive community in East Tennessee that I would be leaving behind. It was a hard choice, but telling myself no was the right decision.

In hindsight, I don’t regret my choice. I reflect on the beautiful aspects of my current life and realize that this “no” is simply a “not yet.” It doesn’t signify a permanent end, just a recognition that now isn’t the appropriate time. Given my recent offer, I am confident that more opportunities will arise in the future as I gain more experience.

The takeaway from this experience is that it’s perfectly acceptable to tell yourself no, even when it feels painful. Despite the hard work you’ve put in, sometimes the right choice is to wait. You might shed a few tears, but deep down, you’ll know you made the right call.

Section 1.1: The Emotional Toll of Rejection

Facing rejection is never easy, especially when it feels like your dreams are within reach. The initial sting can be overwhelming, but it’s crucial to understand that each “no” can lead to growth and future opportunities.

Subsection 1.1.1: Finding Support Through Community

Chapter 2: Learning from the Experience

In this insightful discussion, love experts Stephan Speaks and Jay Shetty delve into the signs of true love, exploring how genuine affection manifests in relationships.

This thought-provoking video examines the struggles of finding joy without alcohol, highlighting the challenges many face in seeking fulfillment.