Didn't Get In - Plan B: Teach??

[lifetimestudent]

So I didn't get into the programs I applied to... bummer. Since I found out, I'm now working on my Plan B, which is to get a job to support myself while I get ready to re-apply for next year. However I do have an MA in my field, and would like to do something that really makes me a stronger candidate. I was speaking with someone who suggested that I could teach as an adjunct at a community college with an MA. It would be perfect, because I could get real experience and also work in my field, even if it's only part time. Does anyone have any experience trying to get a job as an adjunct lecturer with an MA? Is it possible, or is it just a pipe dream?

[ogopogo]

I'm sorry the apps. didn't work out for you this year, but this seems like a very good plan. I've actually heard that a lot more students are going to community colleges this year too, due to financial uncertainty, so that may be a good place to be looking for a job. Can't hurt to apply anyway. I've been teaching with an MA for a few years now and I think the experience has been really good for me. I teach a (very local) language at my university and also taught my subject to graduate students at a university abroad. I'm not sure if that is an option for you, but you might want to look into it if local places don't work out.

[lifetimestudent]

How early do you usually find out about adjunct positions? My understanding is that it has a lot to do with how many students enroll and they hire pretty late sometimes.

[ogopogo]

yep, often you only get confirmation in August, sometimes only a week before classes start, once the departments know which sections are actually going to be taught, # of students enrolled, which (if any) profs have teaching releases, etc. Of course you never know, you might get hired with a different kind of appointment that has more security and advance warning on what you might be teaching - I haven't taught at a CC so I'm not totally sure how it works there. Either way, be prepared for a lot of prep in a short amount of time. There are also summer session classes starting that you might want to look into...