Why I Chose Academia

Throughout the pandemic we came face to face with the challenges we are facing in our educational system. We also saw a mass exodus of many great educators not because they don’t love what they do! It’s because of lack of pay for some, the barriers put into place, and the environment to teach in could be a lot. This completely broke my heart because I know the value of a good teacher and the impact they can have on a person’s life. But right now for many, the world of education is not glamorous or appealing. So, I wanted to share why I chose academia or the educational space.

As far back as I can remember the first thing I wanted to be when I grew up was a teacher. I had the privilege to have a parent who has their doctoral degree and taught at the collegiate level. Every experience up until now has shown me the power of education.

So… when I finally got to college it was a brand-new world in terms of learning and school. I was surrounded by lots of worldviews and information. As I went to class and learned about college life, I began to understand how the institution worked. Then to move on to graduate school and participate in various programs I could see where many students fell short or were not exposed to certain things. From this place I could go back track and see how the opportunities and exposure I received was not the norm. This began my pursuit to consider academia.

As I went through my doctoral degree it was very important for me to think about the impact or legacy I wanted to leave behind. I know I am called to this space. You might be wondering how does she know that? Every time I see a student come into my classroom a little unsure of themselves walking out confident. I know I am called. Every time I speak to a group of younger students about the power of a STEM career. I know I am called. Every time I sit on a committee and use my voice. I know I am called. Every time I connect with other academics and discuss changing the status quo.  I know I am called. Every time I break down another barrier for people that look like me. I know I am called. Every time I defy what’s normal. I know I am called. Every time one person changes their mind. I know I am called. Every time I am a bridge to connect people. I know I am called. Every time I participate in workshops or programs to get better at my work. I know I am called. Every time I advocate and use my voice. I know I am called. I believe where you are called there is provision, grace, and covering.

I like to think of educators as foundation layers. No matter where a student has come from you can help them change their trajectory. In some cases, you can potentially change a whole generation. Yes, some days are easier than others. Yes, you do not always see the fruit immediately. But things are still happening despite the challenges.

Students deserve to see people that look like them in these spaces. They deserve spaces where they can be themselves. They deserve safe spaces to be cultivated and challenged. They deserve good educators.

Outside of working with students I desire to see a change in the whole of academia for educators. I want our voices to reflect what we see at our institutions. I want work life integration to be the norm.  Motherhood or singleness should not be seen as barriers to productivity. I want safe and vibrant communities for scholars to produce their work. I want to see academia redefined. I believe we are the generation to disrupt. No more status quo!

So if its your desire to teach do it. Let nothing stop you and be a change agent we need you. If you left I celebrate you for finding the space you were called. I also want to thank you impact and contributions while in the space. If you are still in the trenches stay the course.