Work in Staff Position as Stepping Stone to Adjunct?

I notice several local community colleges occasionally have staff positions available, e.g., IT/database support, admissions, etc. My goal is to finish a Master's in astronomy and teach that or physics. Is there any advantage applying to adjunct positions internally - as a staff employee - versus externally without any affiliation to that institution?

Mark

 

A stepping stone to an adjuncting position? Hmm.

 

I probably should have said 'a foot in the door.'

 

I can only say what goes on at my own college, but I have observed several instructors moving up into coordinator or dean positions, I can't say that I have watched any staff go into teaching- that doesn't mean they have not, just that I have not noticed it. I honestly don't know how it would hurt, unless you were vacating a position that would put them in a bind or didn't give the position your "all" (viewing it as a temp job). In fact, it might help you network (assuming you are a good employee LOL) and it would certainly allow you to brush elbows with the people who would hire you down the road. I say go for it!

 

I have worked at community colleges, public and private universities and, like Steve, have seen this occur at every institution. As an administrator, I have always taught as an adjunct (it makes me more sensitive and responsive to faculty and student needs and keeps my teaching "chops" current). One of the most common places for institutions to recruit adjuncts is among their own administrative and staff ranks. If you wish to teach as an adjunct, it is definitely an effective "foot in the door strategy".

 

The consensus seems to be 'yes.' I'm glad I asked - I assumed staff was staff and faculty was faculty and never the twain shall meet.

That changes the medium-term plan a bit. Thanks to all, and a Merry Christmas.

Mark

 

With all other things being mostly equal, someone who is already employed by the school will likely get the nod, simply by being a known commodity.

 

It depends on the school. Some schools give hiring priority to internal staff but you would need to check the contractual agreement of the school you intend to work. However, you would still need to satisfy the requirements of the school hiring the teachers. In few words, it might give you an interview but won't guarantee a job.