Tom Lawrence,
Engineering,
University of Georgia,
[Nov. 27, 2011] —

Sometimes our faith shows. A student who graduated last year emailed and asked for career and job advice. She knew my Christian beliefs and expressed her own trust that God would guide her.

To my words of counsel regarding things to take into account in making her decision, she replied:“Thank you so much for sharing your journey….I am so thankful that you ended up at the University of Georgia and I hope you know how much of a positive impact you were on my life!”

And shortly “I wanted to let you know that they offered me the job and I accepted. I am overjoyed with the position and the opportunity for a new start….”

I intend to stay in touch with this graduate as a mentor, if she so chooses. This virtual encounter made me realize that by God’s grace I indeed can make a difference in the lives of my students. After all, that is why I made the decision to leave my career in industry for a profession in academia.

Dissatisfied

By the late 1990’s I was dissatisfied working in industry, despite a comfortable salary and position. I sought out a mentor for guidance in my next move. With this friend’s counsel, and after prayer and careful thought, I began my doctoral studies. I knew that I wanted to be a teacher and mentor for the next generation of engineers.

It seemed too good to be true to find a position here at Georgia where I could contribute to a growing program. Now I find myself well established and teaching wonderful students in a job I love. Being the faculty advisor for service-oriented clubs (including UGA Habitat for Humanity, and Engineers without Borders) gives me additional opportunities to know and influence students.

Uncertainty

Both budgeted (the teaching) and internal funding (auditing) finance my position which is one half teaching and one half leading in energy and water conservation programs on our campus – the latter, subject to annual renewals. The economic downturn has made those funds more tenuous. Such circumstances create stress, and at the beginning of the past three fiscal years I have waited anxiously for news of funding renewals.

The stress related to keeping my position and funding status can distract me from my main mission. Extensive travel to present seminars and workshops in my field (green buildings and energy efficiency) has been strenuous. Yet I find that my response to those challenges provides for those I want to mentor an example in trusting God’s promises when what is seen could create anxiety.

The Answer

At times it feels like a tug of war to keep to my original mission of being an effective guide and mentor for students in preparation for life. You may find the requirements of your position coupled with a failing economy a struggling desert experience. But I encourage you not to give up.

Our mission to influence our students for good can be made more effective for the world that awaits them when we allow God to give us an attitude of trust despite any “giants in the land” encountered along the way.

© 2011 Tom Lawrence
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