What it is Like to Be a University Lecturer

Gaining and sharing knowledge, developing individuals with a helpful approach—these are the fulfilling aspects of being a university lecturer. Individuals with high interpersonal skills, an expressive personality, and intellectual behavior often find this path highly satisfying. However, the journey to becoming a lecturer, and the unique challenges and rewards along the way, vary widely.

A Career Choice and Its Challenges

My decision to become an academic was straightforward—I wanted to dedicate my life to a college or university. This desire to immerse oneself in academia has several implications, but it also introduces complex questions about the nature of the role and the future one envisions within it.

One can be a lecturer without the possibility of transitioning to a tenure-track position. In such cases, the teaching load is often heavier, and teaching may be the primary focus, rather than a stepping stone towards more advanced roles. This position is not usually viewed as an integral part of the department, and reappointment or the pursuit of tenure-track positions elsewhere can be uncertain.

For a lecturer aspiring to become a tenure-track professor, the path is more daunting. These instructors often face the challenge of developing a research or professional development program necessary for a tenure-track position, a pursuit that can be incredibly stressful. As more and more institutions maintain flexibility by hiring lecturers and part-time faculty, this can lead to a career of constant job changes, lacking the gradual progression to higher ranks.

The Rewarding Aspects of University Lecturer

Despite the potential challenges, many find the role of a university lecturer to be profoundly rewarding. As a newly minted PhD, the path I chose mirrors that of many other academics. Teaching is where one's expertise is shared, and it is in these interactions with students that one can truly make a difference.

For those who choose to become a university lecturer, the experience is often characterized by a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Interacting with diverse students, fostering their growth, and contributing to the academic community are all part of the enriching journey.

Final Thoughts

Being a university lecturer can be a deeply enriching career. Whether you are a tenure-track professor or a lecturer, the key is to find joy in the act of teaching and mentoring future generations. The path may be uncertain, but the rewards of making a positive impact on the lives of others are immeasurable.