Why I do this.

I've always been excited by the teaching aspect of being a prof. Don't get me wrong, the research part excites me more than should be allowed in a sane human being, but I don't know that I could follow this career path if it weren't for the promise of being able to spend some of my time teaching students. Thus far, I've only had two chances to stand at the front of the classroom, however, so teaching, for the most part, remains an unrealised dream.

My one outlet has been working at the Centre for Writers. As trying as it can be some days (students coming to see you with essays they're supposed to be handing in half an hour from now tend to get to you), I've always found it rewarding, and would never have traded it for anything. That said, it's the summer now, and I've switched off of teaching mode and into summer researcher mode.

Today brought a nice surprise. The mail guy dropped off a few items, and, as usual, I paid no attention, as no one sends mail to the research assistants--why would they? Except for when someone does. There, amongst a pile of parcels, was a small envelope addressed to me. I looked at the name on the return address, failed to recognise it, and gently opened the envelope. Inside it was the kindest thank-you note from a student who had come to me with help for his/her (privacy, people) grad school application. The student informed me that he/she had been accepted to the programme, and would be starting in September.

As I read over the letter, I felt awash in a sense of pride and accomplishment. There's nothing like the feeling that you've helped someone move closer to their goals, given them the tools they'll need to succeed. The note reaffirmed to me why I'm doing this, let me know that I, too, am moving closer to my goals. Heck, it even let me know that I've already accomplished one of them.

Today was a good day.