What 20 Years in the Classroom Taught Me
Yesterday, I walked out of my classroom for the last time.
After 20 years of teaching at Southern Maine Community College, I’m officially retired—and feeling every emotion that comes with closing a chapter this big. Pride. Gratitude. A little sadness. And a whole lot of reflection. When I first stepped into that classroom, I thought I was there to teach business—share my knowledge, help students navigate marketing plans, leadership principles, and entrepreneurship. What I didn’t realize was just how much they would teach me.
I Came to Teach—But I Stayed to Learn
Over the years, I had the privilege of teaching thousands of students—each one with a story, a dream, a challenge. They showed me what resilience looks like when life gets hard. They reminded me that laughter belongs in learning. They called me out on my Minnesota accent. And they never let me stop growing.
Then there were my colleagues—some of the best people I’ve ever worked with. The business department was the best team I’ve ever been a part of. We celebrated together, vented when we needed to, leaned on each other, and built something we’re all proud of. (And yes, we all held firm to the no-late-homework policy—which probably explains a few of those less-than-glowing student reviews!)
One of my proudest moments was delivering my TED Talk—a lifelong dream I achieved while at SMCC. I had given hundreds of talks before, but this one felt different. It was big. It was scary. It was personal. I’d been a professional speaker for years before moving to Maine, but gave that up when I transitioned to consulting and teaching. That talk reminded me: it’s never too late to dream boldly, speak bravely, and do the things that scare you.
What I’m Taking With Me
This career gave me more than a paycheck or a title—though I have to say, being called “Professor” was a joy I never saw coming. Teaching, like speaking, gave me a platform. A voice. A way to give back and make a difference in the lives of my students. I was once a community college student myself. Being able to pour into others from that same place was more than meaningful—it was full circle.
I’ve learned so many lessons in 20 years, but these three stand out:
- Never give up
- Keep learning
- Be open to the lessons the people around you are here to teach
Now, as I step fully into my work with NU-YAR Construction and nu-yar Consulting, I carry these lessons with me. Whether I’m helping build homes or rebuilding leadership teams, the foundation is the same: people first. Always.
I’m not done teaching—I’m just doing it in different rooms now.
To Everyone Who Was Part of This Journey—Thank You
To my students: thank you for trusting me, for challenging me, and for reminding me that learning never stops.
To my colleagues: thank you for the laughter, the wisdom, and the years of friendship.
To my family: thank you for supporting me every step of the way.
This isn’t an ending—it’s a transition. And if you’re in a moment of change, lean in. It’s scary. It’s uncertain. But it’s also where the good stuff lives.
Here’s to building what’s next—with purpose, with heart, and with both feet in.
—Michelle