My work involves explaining complex concepts and teaching various subjects related to languages, primarily Latin, Ancient Greek, and English. Despite the interconnected nature of my tasks, there isn’t a single, neat category to describe my profession. I often refer to myself as an “independent classics instructor,” though a more precise term might be “freelance language scholar.” This title reflects my diverse roles, from teaching classical languages to creating curricular materials and pursuing advanced studies.
Embracing an Unconventional Career
Although I’m not a traditional university professor, I teach college-level Latin and Ancient Greek to adults worldwide via Zoom. Most of my students come through the Ancient Language Institute (ALI), where I serve as a Latin and Greek fellow. ALI is an online school that helps students achieve proficiency in ancient languages. I teach group classes and independent studies, ranging from introductory courses to advanced readings, and lead workshops in Latin, covering texts by authors like Cicero and Seneca. Additionally, I connect classics and Shakespeare as a guest on ALI’s podcast, “New Humanists.”
My students come from diverse backgrounds and have various reasons for learning classical languages. They include professionals such as pathologists, attorneys, and clergy, as well as laypeople and college students. Teaching these individuals allows me to share the tools for accessing great works of the past without the need for translation.
Multifaceted Roles
Beyond teaching, I work as a curricular and editorial consultant. I create materials for ALI, including video lectures in Latin, and edit content for Armfield Academic Press (AAP), which publishes foreign-language textbooks. My tasks at AAP are varied and engaging, from producing media in different languages to testing educational apps and coding e-books.
Starting in the fall of 2023, I will also teach Ancient Greek as an adjunct instructor at a local university, adding another dimension to my teaching experience. Alongside these roles, I am pursuing a Ph.D. in Bible exposition, further expanding my academic endeavors.
An Unexpected Journey
My career path is different from the traditional academic route I once envisioned. I had always dreamed of becoming a college professor, focusing on either English or classics. However, after earning two master’s degrees and receiving guidance from several professors, I shifted to teaching at a classical Christian school. When the Covid lockdown forced a move to online teaching, I realized the need to change my trajectory. By September 2020, I was teaching Latin and Greek online, which led to opportunities with ALI and AAP.
Finding Joy in Flexibility
While self-employment comes with challenges like healthcare and retirement planning, it offers significant benefits. I enjoy the flexibility to take on new projects and adjust my schedule to meet the needs of my students. My work schedule is unconventional, accommodating classes early in the morning, late at night, or on weekends, but this suits me well. I can also choose between online and in-person teaching, depending on the opportunities available.
A Fulfilling Profession
Despite its unconventional nature, my work as a freelance language scholar brings immense satisfaction. Engaging with diverse students and contributing to various academic projects makes each day rewarding. While this path diverges from the traditional professorial route, it is the right one for me, allowing me to blend my passion for teaching with the freedom to explore new opportunities.
