By Harvey Edwards
Adjunct Faculty in English
Although I cannot recollect exactly who, a wise man once told me: “When you retire, retire to something.”
In that, he meant after my primary vocation or career was done, I should find an avocation or new endeavor that would provide me with stimulation, engagement and a sense of purpose.
Whether volunteering with service projects or actually taking another job, the important factors were to keep the mind and body active.
After all, one can only play so much golf. So, after nearly thirty-five years of teaching in public schools, from Montessori pre-school to summer graduate courses at one of the Pennsylvania State University campus locations, as well as teaching at elementary, middle and high schools in between, I now find myself here at Susquehanna University.
I have been the full time “Teacher in-Residence” for the past two years.
This is my third year in the English and Creative Writing Department, and those words of wisdom have definitely come to fruition in my position.
When I started as an adjunct teaching two English courses, it was a major transition for me.
I had to write syllabi, select texts, and budget the reading and writing assignments, plus class lessons to optimize time and avoid burning out myself or the students.
The experience was akin to a swimmer treading water in the middle of the ocean, seeking a weekend as a life line, or moment of calm and tranquility amid the salty, briny waves.
Fortunately, administrators, faculty, and staff in all facets of employment on the campus have been genial, generous and genuine in their support and encouragement.
As a result, they have made my presence here seem as if I had long been a member of the campus community.
Moreover, the students have made the semesters pass quickly in the classroom because of their willingness to discuss complex and challenging.
I have learned a great deal from their insights and essays, which have been entertaining and rewarding.
Outside of the classroom many of my students have greeted me pleasantly with a cordial, “Prof. E.” adaptation of my grandfather moniker “Pop E.” I am made to feel a part of the fabric of this place.
I was invited to be the co-director of the PataGOnia winter trip to Argentina.
Also, I am serving as the academic liaison for the field hockey team, which affords me the opportunity to know other students outside of my courses.
In addition, I am actively involved with diversity matters on campus to make this home away from home as hospitable as possible for all students.
However, I would be remiss if I did not mention that I bring Stella and Sophie, my two “doghters,” to “Dog Days” at the fountain in September to lessen the stress for us all.
There are many other activities I am connected to on the campus.
However, the short of it is, Susquehanna has provided me with a continued opportunity to do what I love—teach.
Most importantly, in doing so I am continuing to learn and grow and that is what sustains us all.
One precept I have found to be true is, if one finds his or her passion and pursue it with gusto, the work will never feel like a burden.
As I remember a family member once telling me: “Keep your eyes on the prize.”
Take advantage of discovering your passion while you are here.
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