In higher
education, adjunct instructors are the unsung heroes, each bringing their
unique blend of experience and expertise to shape students' academic journeys.
This semester, I am an adjunct instructor at the Community College of
Philadelphia, and I am deeply committed to dedicating my time and knowledge to
teaching Introduction to Hospitality Management. In this blog and as the semester
concludes, I will delve into the invaluable contributions of adjunct
instructors and the pivotal role of community colleges in empowering students
to thrive in their chosen careers.
Community
colleges have long been a cornerstone of the American higher education system.
These institutions provide students with the opportunity to pursue a diverse
range of educational and training programs at a remarkably affordable cost.
Unlike traditional universities, community colleges are laser-focused on
preparing students for the workforce or for transferring to four-year
institutions, making them a practical and cost-effective choice for many.
According to
the American Association of Community Colleges, more than 1,000 community
colleges are in the U.S., with more than 90% being public institutions. They
are also known as junior colleges, offering many affordable courses, including
2-year associate degree programs often used as credit by students seeking to
transfer to 4-year programs. Community colleges throughout the country in
urban, exurban, and rural settings typically enroll students from the local
area.
"An
Adjunct Professor is a professor who teaches on a limited-term contract and is
ineligible for tenure." (“Adjunct Professor Definition and Meaning | Top
Hat”) They are often hired to teach specific courses or fill temporary
vacancies. Adjunct professors, with their remarkable flexibility, typically
spend a significant portion of their time with students. They must be adaptable
to fulfill several responsibilities, including preparing course materials,
grading assignments, and holding office hours for student consultations. These
tasks, though demanding, are crucial in ensuring students receive a
well-rounded education.
Adjunct professors
are critical players in higher education; they bring real-world experience and
expertise to the classroom, enriching students' academic experience with
practical insights and industry knowledge. For instance, in my Introduction to
Hospitality Management class, I often share my experiences in the industry,
which helps students understand the practical applications of the theories we
discuss. With their flexible schedules and diverse backgrounds, adjunct
instructors offer students a unique perspective on their chosen field of study,
bridging the gap between theory and practice.
Embodying the
spirit of mentorship and guidance is essential, providing students with the
tools and skills they need to thrive in the hospitality industry. My passion
for teaching and commitment to student success shines through every lecture and
interaction, inspiring students to reach their full potential and pursue their
career goals.
I am currently
teaching Hotel Management, a course that equips students with the management
skills and knowledge required to run a hotel operation. The class covers various
topics, including the responsibilities and managerial functions of
housekeeping, engineering, front desk, and non-room revenue streams. We also
delved into room revenue management, accounting practices unique to the lodging
industry, marketing and sales, and guest safety. Throughout the course,
students learned about the relationship between various departments and the
importance of each department in the hotel's success.
Community
colleges, the bedrock of accessible and affordable higher education, provide a
nurturing and inclusive environment for students from all levels of society.
With their smaller class sizes, personalized instruction, and emphasis on
practical learning, community colleges foster an environment where every
student feels valued and included and can excel academically and
professionally.
Community
colleges serve as a steppingstone to higher education and career advancement
for many students. Whether pursuing an associate degree, transferring to a
four-year institution, or seeking workforce training and certification,
community colleges provide a pathway to success for students of all
backgrounds. For instance, a student who completes an associate degree in Hotel
Management at a community college can go on to work in various roles in the
hospitality industry, or they can transfer to a four-year institution to
further their studies and increase their career opportunities.
As an adjunct
instructor at the Community College of Philadelphia, I have witnessed the
transformative power of education. One of my students, let us call her Sarah,
came to my class with a passion for the hospitality industry but lacked the
confidence and skills to pursue her dreams. Through my teaching, mentorship,
and advocacy, I was able to help Sarah develop the confidence, skills, and
resilience she needed to succeed in the competitive world of hospitality.
Today, she is a successful hotel manager, and I could not be prouder of her
achievements.
By investing in
the next generation of leaders and professionals, adjunct instructors are shaping
the future of education and their communities and industries. Their unwavering
dedication, passion, and expertise profoundly impact students, equipping them
to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and carve their own path to
success. As educators and stakeholders, we deeply respect and appreciate this
level of commitment and passion.
In conclusion,
adjunct instructors are the unsung heroes of higher education. They enrich
students' academic experience and empower them to reach their full potential.
Through their tireless dedication and commitment to student success, adjunct
instructors inspire and uplift the next generation of leaders, leaving a legacy
in their students' hearts and minds.
