Department Chair

We decided that taking the Department Chair offer was a good idea. The department is made up of the computer and university success (study skills) classes. There are 5 faculty members plus the Dept Chair. This will just add to the adventure.

I have finally heard from the shipping agent, looks like the pickup is scheduled for the week of July 21st, with arrival in Doha after Aug 1st. We need to be in the country when things arrive.

New idea

In the last week I have found out that the Department Chair for the Computer Department is leaving and I offered my help in the transition. I have now been asked to consider becoming the Chair for the Computer and University Success Department. Little more money and a little less classroom time but all the administrative duties of supervising the other faculty members (about 6) and reporting to the Academic Dean.

My wife and I will discuss this change of events and try to make a quick decision. Becoming part of the administration may require being on campus a little earlier for the administrative meetings. I am going to try to talk with the departing Chair for some background and give the program an answer by tomorrow. As others have told us, working overseas requires a bit of flexibility.

Would you believe??

We still have not been contacted by the shipping company. With 7 weeks till departure time, we have not started major packing. We have found out that it is best for the shipment to arrive after we are in the country and can accept it, so our plan is to ship about July 20th. From everyone we have talked to about what to bring, clothes and a few personal items are it. Most everything else is available in country cheaper than the shipping cost.

Another surprise, I just found out that the head of the Computer Department is coming back to the states after a 4 year stint in Qatar. I don't know what this does to the planning and class organization as it seems rather sudden. I would think that finding her replacement may be a challenge, especially at this late date. Flexibility seems to be the word of the day.

Some of our local friends are planning a going away party before the big day, either glad to see me go or they will miss my wife in the neighborhood. Either way, it is a very nice idea and we are grateful for the thought.