Insights of a First Year Weber Science Professor

I am new to Weber State University- not as a student, but as a professor.  I recently moved from a postdoctoral position in Iowa to join the Zoology department in the College of Science at WSU. Starting a new job, as well as moving across the country, has definitely had its ups and downs. I have enjoyed meeting the students here and am beginning to realize that we have more in common than one might think.

One of the most challenging aspects of being a professor is balancing time, especially as we near the holidays. I love teaching, but it takes time. For every hour I lecture, I have spent at least two hours in preparation. And that doesn’t include grading homework! So while students are deep in their textbooks, I am also up to my eyeballs in “homework.” While it is tempting not to assign homework, I know that the effort I put into the assignments helps many students with their learning. Similarly, while it is easy for a student to skip assigned readings, they know they will pay for it in the end during exams.

I understand the struggle to balance schoolwork with spending time with loved ones, especially those that you only see during the holidays. To free up more time with family, I try to plan ahead, schedule large projects into little pieces. That way, when the deadline rolls around, I do not have as much work to do to complete the task. In the same way, students who know a lab report or cumulative exam is approaching can start writing and studying well in advance. In addition, completing homework assignments on time and working on extra problems at the end of the chapter will help you to be more prepared when you begin studying for an exam.

Taking care of myself physically and mentally as a new professor is also a challenge due to time constraints. It is easy for students and professors alike to succumb to illness as the weather turns, school gets busier, and family obligations increase. I have joined a running group to keep me accountable for exercising during the week. Students at Weber State have access to a plethora of free activities, ranging from outdoor recreation groups to bowling in the Union. Taking care of your body will help you finish the semester strong, despite its stress.

I have enjoyed meeting the supportive faculty and staff at Weber State and many exceptional students. Moving far from my family has been challenging, as it takes time to form new friendships. I had the opportunity to spend a weekend with other new faculty at a retreat sponsored by the College of Science this summer. I became friends with a French professor, and I appreciate the chance to spend time with another new member of the WSU community, reflecting on challenges and successes in our own lives, and encouraging each other to be better scholars. Many students at WSU commute from other cities, and may not have strong connections with their classmates or instructors. I encourage you to take time throughout the year to get to know other students on campus. Join a study group, visit your majors' room, or join a club affiliated with your interests. Studies have shown that the more you feel at home in your academic community, the more likely you are to persist and reach your goals.

Finally, the most important tip I can share-whether you are a veteran professor or a student in their first semester- is to remember that this busy time of life is a season. You know when it is coming and can prepare for it, and you can celebrate once it ends. It will pass, and you will be a better, stronger, person for it.

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