Introduction

The journey from being an adjunct professor to becoming a full-time, tenured faculty member can be a long and challenging one. This article explores the process, common perceptions, and strategies that can facilitate this transition. We will also discuss the experiences of those who have navigated this path, sharing both successes and challenges.

The Challenges of the Transition

The transition from adjunct to full-time, tenured professor is not common, as many universities do not offer tenured positions to adjuncts or non-tenure track faculty. Furthermore, most adjuncts, who are often M.A. holders, are not eligible for full-time assistant professor positions. A few universities do have non-tenure track faculty positions that resemble assistant professorships, but these positions often lack the research and publication requirements needed for tenure track positions. According to my experiences, only a few faculty members have successfully transitioned to tenure-track positions after serving in non-tenure track roles.

The Role of Service and Leadership

One of the key differentiators between adjunct professors and full-time faculty is the willingness to serve on committees, whether they are related to curriculum development, departmental work, or university-wide initiatives. Full-time and tenured professors often demonstrate leadership skills and a deep commitment to improving the institution and their academic disciplines. I, for example, served on various committees and was appointed as the Coordinator of Innovation Experimentation and Research in Education even before completing my Ph.D. This allowed me to demonstrate my leadership and dedication to innovation and research.

My experience at the University in Madison is a prime example. After my Ph.D., I was given a unique opportunity to create a job that aligned with my interests and strengths. This role allowed me to work on innovative projects, such as producing video presentations for elementary classrooms. My appointment as the coordinator further cemented my position as a valuable and influential member of the university community.

When asked about my future plans, my department head posed an open-ended question, which provided me with the opportunity to express my desires and ambitions. This flexibility and the trust placed in me ultimately led to the acquisition of resources that were crucial for my research and teaching.

Strategies for a Successful Transition

To successfully transition from an adjunct to a full-time, tenured professor, one must demonstrate exceptional teaching and research abilities, while also showing a strong commitment to service. Here are some strategies that can help:

Leadership and Service: Consistently demonstrate leadership by taking on additional responsibilities and serving on committees. This can include role models who have already made the transition. Research and Publications: Engage in high-quality research and publish your findings. This is essential for tenure track positions as it showcases your scholarly contributions. Negotiate for Opportunities: Use your strengths to negotiate for opportunities that can benefit both you and the university. Sometimes, these opportunities can provide a stepping stone to a tenured position. Networking: Build strong professional relationships with colleagues who can provide mentorship and support. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and collaboration.

My experience illustrates how pursuing these strategies can lead to a successful transition. While my initial position was non-tenured, I leveraged my research and teaching experience to apply for and ultimately secure a tenure track position at another university.

Universities often view adjuncts and non-tenure track faculty similarly to how the military views enlisted personnel. While tenured professors are the officers, non-tenure track assistant professors are considered officers-in-training. Demonstrating leadership and a willingness to change the academic landscape can significantly enhance your chances of moving to a tenure track position.

Conclusion

The path from an adjunct to a full-time, tenured professor is challenging but not impossible. By demonstrating strong leadership, engaging in high-quality research, and establishing a network of supportive colleagues, one can make significant strides towards this goal. Remember that every individual's journey is unique, but by learning from the experiences of those who have made the transition, you can increase your chances of success.