A lot of people consider a college degree as a step to working with the subject they have spent so long studying. However, for some, the love of the subject surpasses the actual application of it. They might want to get involved in teaching it, instead. There are plenty of good reasons to consider it, as well.
You love the academic life
There are simply some people who are much better suited to a life of academia than any other kind of work. If after all your studying, you feel like some more studying, then lecturing might just be right for you. But it’s about more than the kind of work. Some people love the autonomy and independence of setting materials and subject matter and driving discussions in the classroom. That kind of environment is perfect for those who want to continue with their own research, papers and academic work while they earn, as well.
You find it rewarding
There are reasons to get into it that are a bit more selfless than your own love of the kind of work you do, as well. Education is a part of society that can’t have its importance doubted. The countries that do the best in the world in terms of discoveries, civil liberties and more share the thread of great education. In fact, if you want to become a teacher, then a desire to teach should be a deal-breaker. Developing young minds, seeing interests grow in subjects and helping people find their path in life is what it’s all about.
You might have more rights
If you’re concerned about the rights involved in your employment, as most people are these days, then teaching can offer certain guarantees that other employees wouldn’t. For instance, if you’re working at a university that gets any federal funding, then Duffy Law has some info on some of the extra Title IX protections against discrimination based on gender. There are also broader rights for employees such as tenure, which protects you from dismissal except for reasons of incompetence, gross negligence, gross misconduct or financial necessity. Teaching is a legally protected profession.
It can be very flexible
While tenure can be very helpful in holding onto a permanent place in a career, the truth is that it can be hard to find one. But that’s not always a downside. If you like some degree of independent living, travelling and new experiences, then lecturing in universities can be a highly flexible career. That work flexibility allows you a lot more options in terms of not only location but working hours and conditions. There aren’t a whole lot of professions that can offer that. If flexibility isn’t as important to you, then you just need to endure a wait and keep working hard at it.
Our education system is in need of teachers that care about teaching and care about the subject on every level. If you’ve been thinking of setting foot in college or university once again, then the points above might just give you more reason to go ahead and do it.
