Many think that being a professor is just an easy job. They think that sending students to the library or discussing non-sense things are easy escapegoats to take a rest in a sleepy afternoon. But for those who closely monitor my actions, there is one word that’s appropriate for the gargantuan tasks being put on my shoulders — exploited.
Yes I am exploited, but it is part of the contract I signed at the beginning of school year. We are supposed to perform tasks that are assigned to us by our superiors aside from the main task which is teaching. Though there are no monetary remuneration for the extra jobs I am performing, sometimes a pat in the shoulder, shakehands from administrators, treat to a dinner, or even simple kind and heartwarming words are enough to replenish the efforts. Trust is a very good investment that one may reserve for future use.
The first week of February is our university’s founding anniversary. Since my student days, I am being tapped to be part of several committees. Now that I am holding a middle-level position, more responsibilities are being put on my shoulders. This year, I am the chairman of the documentation and sound system committee.
As chairman of the above-mentioned committee, I have to be literally present in all activities, from day 1 to day 7, sun up to sun down, to supervise the photographers, videographers and sound system operators. I have to ensure that they capture through the lenses the highlights of the celebration. We are tasked to produce an annual montage at the celebration. But before that, we had experienced a lot of pre-production like preparing the video presentations for university night, Lupang Hinirang, and Trinity March. It took us three weeks to complete the process.
During the week, I requested 5 student assistants that the HR director Jose Lino Sarmiento gladly approved. We need them badly especially during the big productions like Mr. and Ms. Trinity 2009 and the University Night.
I also shelled out money first because materials and budget for food came late. My car became the service of my committee to transport equipment from the school to another venue.
But aside from these tasks, I was also requested to be one of the two emcees for the pageant. I do not know if I did well on stage but as per self-assessment, I think I got 7 out of 10. Mr. Sarmiento also asked me to direct the university night which turned out very well. I got positive response.
Last night is the last activity of the celebration. And papers have gathered in top of my table. I haven’t checked the midterm examinations of my students yet nor computed their midterm grades and the deadline is fast approaching. If I may add, by Monday, we’ll have a research grand prix, courtesy of my professional organization and I have a part in the program. My students will be competing in this grand prix. Accreditation (?) and ISO certification is fast approaching, as well as our bid for autonomous status and for sure, more paper works are in store for us.
It’s hard to be in my position. Slowly, I will accomplish these tasks. I just did it last week!
