In August 1975, I received a phone call from the Chairman of the Music Department at Eastern Illinois University (we were living in Charleston Il. at the time). He said the Pedagogy/Class Piano Instructor had taken a job in New Jersey.
University classes started in two weeks and they were desperate (his very word). Would I take the job?
I hesitated...I had the appropriate credentials, yet no experience with college teaching. I was 31 years old, wife of the violin professor and mother of two young children. But ~ they were desperate. I felt ill equipped and full of doubt.
To quote John Holt, “There is nothing more valuable than a healthy sense of doubt.” I accepted the position.
My life was forever changed with that choice. I found my passion. I found my purpose.
This next week I am to returning to EIU, to Charleston for a celebration honoring Catherine Smith, my first “Boss”, a marvelous teacher and pianist who will be celebrating her 90th birthday! And I have the unique opportunity to thank all those who supported me through those years, guided me when I was confused and taught me what it really means to be a teacher.
Thank you everyone!
University classes started in two weeks and they were desperate (his very word). Would I take the job?
I hesitated...I had the appropriate credentials, yet no experience with college teaching. I was 31 years old, wife of the violin professor and mother of two young children. But ~ they were desperate. I felt ill equipped and full of doubt.
To quote John Holt, “There is nothing more valuable than a healthy sense of doubt.” I accepted the position.
My life was forever changed with that choice. I found my passion. I found my purpose.
This next week I am to returning to EIU, to Charleston for a celebration honoring Catherine Smith, my first “Boss”, a marvelous teacher and pianist who will be celebrating her 90th birthday! And I have the unique opportunity to thank all those who supported me through those years, guided me when I was confused and taught me what it really means to be a teacher.
Thank you everyone!