It never ceases to amaze me how students will utter some of the most mind-blowing thoughts that live rent-free in my head. You would think that over the decade that I have taught in institutions of higher learning, I have heard everything. Still, they manage to find new and interesting ways to leave me flabbergasted or embarrass my fellow faculty members.

The latest instance occurred the other day when a student asked me if having an A in the class by the time finals rolled around would exempt them from the final exam. I am known for sarcasm and a dry sense of humor. However, upon hearing this suggestion, I burst out in laughter that rivaled some of the greatest mad scientists the world has ever known. I know I freaked out a couple of students because they were not aware that I had any positive emotions in my body. I am pretty sure my outburst will be echoing in their minds for a while. Now that is some classroom trauma.
Exempt from a final exam? Who would do such a thing? Why would I deny any student the privilege of seeing me one last time before they embark on their journey into the world? They should be honored to be in my presence. I would love to know who instilled these dangerous thoughts in their minds.

I get it. Some people want to leave early. Any time a break rolls around, people will do almost anything to get an extra five minutes of vacation. This escape plan applies to both students and faculty. I will never understand it. What are they running away from? Despite everything that is going on beyond our ivory towers, this is one of the best gigs I could ever have. I get to do something I love and share it with other people who may, or may not, have a passing interest in it. I share that joy with them in every lecture and activity we do in the classroom. I wouldn’t feel right if I cheated them out of our limited opportunities with each other. I will never get over the notion that many students, and some faculty members, try to avoid face-to-face interactions with each other. People treat class like they do their health insurance. They have no problem paying for it, but they will do everything in their power to avoid using it unless necessary.

This kind of thinking is what fosters a culture of disengagement that I observe at various institutions. Nobody wants to be where they are, and it trickles down to the students. They don’t want to be in class because the faculty want to be anywhere but in front of people. I understand that part. There are days when I would rather work on my writing and research than tackle the banal questions of assignments that I answered 30 seconds ago, but I know it is a necessary evil. Except that it isn’t a problem for me. I like what I do. No, I love what I do. Even at a place that no longer wants me, I still love what I am doing.

Never let the mundane or political aspects of your gig get you down. We professors have a fantastic job that allows us a lot of freedom that most people would fight over. Keep fighting the good fight and don’t shortchange those under your charge. Goodness, was this a positive article? I might be coming down with an illness.