I’m back in Rochester, enjoying some time with Dre, Rita Mae, Lilah, and Lewis after completing my first week down in Ithaca. Class yesterday went really smoothly. I’m already working on my lessons plans for next week and tweaking my assignments. Once I’m done with that it’s back to reading for coursework. I also have some OPL thing to do. And it looks like I’ll be presenting at a O’Reilly internet session later this fall. So a lot is on my plate.
All that said, it’s great to be home.
The FWS prep class last night went really well. My discussion group was pretty impressed with the syllabus I put together. They had some excellent feedback about assignments as well. I still have to find a way to reduce the readings for the class — if for not other reason to ensure my own sanity.
I also know at least one student has the required books. I know this because I stood behind him in line today at the bookstore and I’m pretty sure I’m the only teacher at Cornell using this particular work. I resisted the temptation to talk with him. I really don’t want to be “that professor”… at least not yet.
Class begins at 10.10 tomorrow with a short writing exercise. I’m a little nervous about it only being 50 minutes long. That’s a really short amount of time — the shortest class time block I’ve ever taught in. So it will be interesting to see how it goes.
For those who are interested, you can check out version 1.0 of the syllabus here:
And I’m calling it v1.0 for a reason. One of the notes in it says it all:
Be Prepared for Changes
I reserve the right to alter the syllabus at any time. In fact I guarantee that I will before the end of the semester. When in doubt about a reading, an assignment, or a due date, ASK! And always refer back to Blackboard for the latest information about the class.
I reserve the right to alter the syllabus at any time. In fact I guarantee that I will before the end of the semester. When in doubt about a reading, an assignment, or a due date, ASK! And always refer back to Blackboard for the latest information about the class.
Today was my first full day back in Ithaca. Since I’m teaching a freshman writing workshop (or FWS, for those in the know) for the first time, I have to attend a six week teaching course. While it’s a lot of additional work, I’m excited about it. At RIT I was dropped into the deep end of the pool and was expected to start swimming. Here there’s a formalized support network for grad students who are teaching classes.
Being back in Ithaca is a bit of a mixed bag. I’m excited to start studies again. This is going to have to be a big year if I hope to start my research next year. That means I have a lot of course work to do and a number of grants to apply for. And while that is exciting, if not more than a little overwhelming, I’m also sad to be away from Dre — especially since today is our wedding anniversary. I know it’s cliche, but while there have been trials and tribulations, 3 years really has seemed to pass in the blink of an eye. I can’t wait to see her this weekend!
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