Which Matters More: Conference Presentations or Teaching Experience

[grandstreet]

Hi all,

I'll be applying to English programs next year. This spring, I have the opportunity to teach a college English course at a 4 year university. However, I'm also presenting a paper at a national conference. I've never taught at the college level or presented at a conference before (and, as of yet, have no peer-reviewed publications). Due to time overlap between the conference and the class, along with some other complicating factors, I'll only be able to do one or the other. For grad schools apps, does anyone have an idea which would look better? I'd love to do both and am torn. I'm looking for something to tip the balance in one direction or the other.

[rubyrunner]

Both sound like great opportunities, but I'm leaning towards teaching the class. With budget cuts, many programs are emphasizing teaching more than ever. You can always apply to conferences once you start teaching and have a better sense of your schedule (I presented at one this semester that coincided with a long weekend). Unless, of course, the conference in question is MLA--and if that's the case, I'm jealous!

[lolopixie]

I would take the teaching opportunity.

[rainy_day]

I would also take the teaching opportunity; I think it looks far more prestigious.

[Timshel]

If you can do both, do both, but if you can't, do the teaching. I teach, and I am also presenting at a conference next semester. This time I am lucky that I only teach on Mondays and Wednesdays (my other classes are online) so it won't conflict with my schedule, but it did last year, and I just got one of my fellow colleagues to sub for me.

[JeremiahParadise]

Have you already written your conference paper? I mean, was it a seminar paper of yours or something? If so, I'd really really try to do both. Then again, I don't know your other, outside engagements. If they're really big impediments, then I'd definitely just... well, I guess I'm not certain, really, so I won't say for sure either way. Good luck though!

EDIT: Just because I'm curious -- and maybe it'll help folks help you -- what's the conference?

Edited December 12, 2011 by JeremiahParadise

[rising_star]

Agreed with everyone that said you should do both. Why? Because for the rest of your career as an academic, you will be doing both. I either cancel class or get a colleague to cover for me when I'm at a conference. That's just the way it rolls and everyone (from full professor on down the line) does it. You just offer to teach for them next time, buy coffee/lunch/dinner, etc. My fellow graduate students are always happy to help out and we've all covered for one another.

[Two Espressos]

I agree with other posters: teach over presenting at the conference, unless you can do both.

[grandstreet]

Thanks for the advice everyone! I'm going to be able to do both.

[JeremiahParadise]

Good for you -- good luck!