The Real Rewards
Why the Best Parts of Teaching Aren’t Measured
Forget the usual academic benchmarks. They don’t matter to me. What really counts are the raw, unscripted moments after class, when nearly everyone’s gone and a few students stick around. That’s when the real teaching happens. It’s these exchanges—arguing over theories, breaking down complex ideas—that I thrive on.
I’m in this for the love of those moments. I could do this job for free, and it wouldn’t make a difference to me. It’s not about the paycheck; it’s about the undeniable buzz of connecting, really connecting, with my students as they challenge old ideas and embrace new ones.
This is what I’m here for. These moments of genuine interaction are my reward, far surpassing any formal recognition or accolade. Teaching for me is about these priceless, unplanned exchanges that happen off the clock and off the record. They’re what I value most, and they’re why I show up every day. Every tough question, every eager face looking for answers, every debate that spills out of classroom time—these are the true luxuries of my profession.
Thanks my dear students!