Assistant director of student activities finds professional satisfaction despite the politics of the job

In this interview, the assistant director of student activities at a university shares how she learned it is sometimes ok to say "no" at work. What is your job title and what industry do you work in? How many years of experience do you have in that field? I am the Assistant Director of Student Activities in the industry of Higher Education/Student Affairs. I have 6+ years experience. Would you describe what you do on a typical day? No day is the same! I have… read more >

Kindergarten teacher copes with difficult parents for sake of children

This kindergarten teacher of six years finds that parents, and not the students, are often the most difficult part of the job. Here is her story. What is your job title? How many years of experience do you have in that field? Im a Kindergarten teacher. With that title, comes a bundle of additional hats but, for the interview, Ill use that generic title. I have six years of teaching experience at the elementary school level and two years of substitute… read more >

Despite inmate threats, jailhouse teacher continues to changes lives

This teacher, with more than 20 years experience teaching in an academic setting, uses her experience as a special education teacher and a school administrator to help inmates earn their GEDs. What is your job title? How many years of experience do you have in that field? My job title is GED (General Educational Development) Teacher and Transition Coordinator. I work at a jail that houses both federal and local inmates, as well as illegal immigrants. I've been… read more >

Director of after school program strives to change lives, despite oppressive management

This professional spent 10 years as a chemist, and four years in Christian children's ministry before moving his family to take a job as the director of an after-school program in an impoverished area in the US. He shares his frustration that his ability to create change is limited by management, and explains that in an area that is so depressed, short-term impact is minimal. Despite this, he holds to the hope that long-term change is possible through the children with… read more >