Teaching at the University of Georgia


I have big news. Monday I started teaching two classes, Drawing and Advanced Illustration in the Graphic Design program at the University of Georgia in Athens. I'm filling in for a professor taking medical leave for the rest of the semester.
     The irony is I received my BFA from the University of Georgia (a while ago) under the Professor who is now head of the department and who contacted me to fill this position. What an incredible honor!
     And I'm amazed how my life is full of circles. Along with writing and illustrating, I have always had the teaching bug. I have wanted to teach at the college level since the day after I graduated. But I needed an MFA to do it - something I haven't been able to pull off yet. So I've taught everywhere I could where an advanced degree wasn't required. Like at the John C. Campbell Folk School, speaking at conferences (four over the next few months), and doing school visits (three over the next two months).
     Apparently at some point in life, your experience becomes just as valuable as an advanced degree, and I seem to have reached that lovely tipping point. Woohoo!
     Of course, I always say beware what you wish for. When dreams are answered they don't always come in the prettiest package or at the most convenient time in life. Athens is a 1 1/2 hour commute (3 times a week), and teaching will be in addition to my writing and freelance (and other speaking engagements). In other words, I'm going to be a bit busy until Christmas.
     So please forgive me if I miss a few blog days or don't return your emails as quickly as usual. I'm going to try to keep up with everything, but I'm sure at some point a few things are going to have to slide as I embark on this exciting new adventure. It's going to be a wild ride, but I couldn't be more thrilled!

12 comments:

Teresa Kravtin said...

Congratulations! Enjoy!! That commute will give you an idea of what my life is like!!

Vicky Alvear Shecter said...

Yey! If anybody can pull it off, you can!

Karen Strong said...

That's really great about your teaching gig! I graduated from UGA as well. They are lucky to have you. :)

Jeni said...

Congrats! Very exciting ~jeni :)

Greg Pincus said...

That's fantastic news! I still don't think it's a reason to miss a blog post, though. Why not give up eating or breathing instead? Yeah. Think of US, why don't ya??? :-)

Gail said...

Fabulous news, E!!! Having taught school for 30 years, I know the joy of helping students find their way. You are a wonderful role model and those students are lucky to have you!!! Hope to see you at WIK! :-D

Unknown said...

Congratulations, Elizabeth! You should be very proud of this honor. That commute will just give you more time to enjoy books on tape. Best of luck to you! :)

Elizabeth O Dulemba said...

Wow - thank you ALL for your warm congratulations! I'm blushing up a storm here. And Teresa, I may be hitting you up for some good recommendations on audio books soon!
:)
e

Donny Bailey Seagraves said...

Congratulations, E. This will be great experience for you in Athens. Maybe we can meet up one day downtown for lunch when you're here.

MrBibleHead said...

Congrats Elizabeth! Wow you are one busy teacher/illustrator :o) I'm very excited for you and the wonderful opportunities!

Jami said...

Congratulations! I hope you enjoy it immensely! Teaching is so rewarding, especially when you are teaching what you love!!

Elizabeth O Dulemba said...

Indeed!! And I do love it! :) e