Q: How do I become an adjunct professor? I’ve always wanted to teach, and it seems like so many schools want people with lots of experience. I just finished my bachelor’s degree but know I’d be good at teaching.
A: I started as an adjunct before I became a full-time instructor. Laying the groundwork before I even finished my MBA helped me land as an adjunct instructor three months after I finished my MBA.
While I didn’t have teaching experience, I leveraged my experiences in training and leading training meetings with all the companies I had been with prior. Likewise, I networked with people in the industry for a long time, and always kept a foot in the door at a few different places.
As well, a couple schools I looked at before deciding on SUNY Delhi had me put together mock lectures and lesson plans; it’s good to have something like this to share in your interview if you are asked.
The best place to start your search is at the community college level. Many schools will bring on professionals with experience in their field who have a bachelor’s and are possibly pursuing a Master’s degree. Bringing in people from the field, especially in specialized areas like finance, science, law, culinary, business, and technology can really add to a program at any college.
For the 4 year level, it’s almost a must to have a Master’s degree.
Also, attend career fairs for colleges that often are run when schools are looking for adjuncts. Mildred Elley is running one on August 13th in the Albany area.
http://www.mildred-elley.edu/careers/
Best of luck to you! Education is a great career choice.