When students find themselves connected to a particular institution, it can make an extreme difference in their educational experience. Not only are they attending classes, but they also feel part of the ‘family,’ so to speak.
Angela Pedrotti is an adjunct professor in Sinclair’s English (ENG) department and considers herself a “Sinclair cheerleader.”
Pedrotti took classes at Sinclair prior to becoming an instructor. She described not having the option to go to a university and, like many others, choosing Sinclair for its proximity and affordability.
As a student, Pedrotti worked at the Tutoring and Learning Center (TLC) in the Writing Lab. There she was able to assist fellow students with their papers, and she received a lot of encouragement while doing so. Later, she wanted to give back, so she took the opportunity to teach.
Pedrotti has had to find a balance throughout her years as an instructor. She has found that dedicating separate days to teaching and grading helps to create structure. However, she still remains flexible and is aware that things might need to move around periodically. She stated that the English department is helpful in creating this fluidity.
The English professor sees teaching as her “calling” and a source of “opportunities to help people.”
According to Pedrotti, this line of work will “take over your life” – but in a good way. All of the time spent preparing lesson plans, reading drafts, and grading seems to pay off for her.
She enjoys seeing the success stories of her students – especially those who struggle with challenges that impact their education, including mental illness. Pedrotti’s goal is to try to look at those challenges in a positive manner.
She also gets to see their personalities and passions come out within their writing. She speaks very highly of the energy her students have about what they are learning and creating.
Pedrotti found something that suited her and stuck with it, and she encourages others to do the same.
When not working, Pedrotti likes to read, binge watch TV shows, play games, and knit – even more so in the presence of her cats or family.
Thank you, Professor Pedrotti, for your contributions to the college and for offering your time to be part of this series.
Click here to read about other Awesome Adjuncts at Sinclair!
Carly Webster
Staff Writer