Maha Z.
About me
| Maha Z. | |
| English and Related Literature | |
| English Literary Studies | |
| Taught Postgraduate | |
| Langwith | |
| 2013 | |
| Lebanon |
My employment
| English Language Instructor | |
| University | |
| Lebanon | |
| Education |
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A day in the life of a English Language Instructor in Lebanon
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
My organization is a local university that opened its doors to students in 2015. I have been teaching with this university since it first started.
What do you do?
I teach English language courses, help prepare course material, coordinate with fellow instructors, and have what seems to be endless experience cooperating with students.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
When I first graduated, I worked in an NGO that focused on educational services for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. I started teaching a class with this organization, and I realized that I enjoyed teaching and building relationships with students more than office work. That's when I started applying to teach at universities in Lebanon.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
No, actually, I am doing exactly what I wanted to do. I have always wanted to be an English Instructor, and hopefully soon will teach English literature instead of only language courses.
Describe your most memorable day at work
One of the days that truly resonates with me are the days I plan activities with my students, and don't follow the book to letter. One recent memory was when I asked students to play out an investigation of a fake crime to practice past progressive. It was hilarious and so fun seeing a different side of my students' personalities.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
The biggest challenge in any teaching position, I believe, is the amount of preparation and corrections necessary for any course I teach. The amount spent outside the classroom is almost always double of the time I spend in the class.
What’s your work environment and culture like?
On a regular day, I have my own office at the university and then go to my classes depending on my assigned classroom. I wear casual clothes but could be a bit more formal depending on the mood. Blazers, jeans, and sneakers are my go-to dress code.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I was only at the University of York for one year, but I remember joining the Arab Society and joining the swim team as well. The Islamic society was truly a blessing when I felt like I was the only Arab in the region and I volunteered in a variety of their events. Also, I truly enjoyed swim practice and I am still in contact with a few of my swim mates.
What would you like to do next with your career?
I would like to complete my PhD and my defense and start teaching Comparative Literature.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Learn as much as you can from every work experience. There is no such thing as a perfect job, but it's what you make out of it. Also, don't let work overwhelm your life. Make time for you.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
I am happy to help students in topics related to teaching, research, and literature.
Next steps...
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