An English Instructor’s Advice

Diann Adamson has been teaching writing for 18 years

Marian Sahakyan / Staff Photographer

Professor Adamson encourages her students to read more books and write, as well.

Every morning before she starts her day, she grabs a cup of coffee then sits at her desk to start writing. Diann Adamson has been teaching writing at GCC for the past 18 years.

Her passion for teaching stretches as deep as that of writing. Her sense of humor keeps students away from distractions or falling asleep during those early morning classes and throughout the day. Her positive attitude, gives students something to look forward to every single class. She encourages her students to never stop learning.

She has a special ability of channeling the interesting talents that her students hold within, she helps them bring out and showcase these. She recalls a student by the name of Alex, who despised writing. After months and months of convincing conversations, Adamson was able to change Alex’s mind. He finally started writing poems.

The professor became very impressed with his poems. “You are a poet,” she said to him, encouraging the student to publish his work.

Several semesters later, Alex contacted his beloved mentor to let her know that his work had been published by UCLA. He also showed gratitude for her encouraging words, and for pushing to get his work out there.

Adamson’s creativity is demonstrated among her many writings, including the science fiction books that she has published. One book in particular, “Outre, Deviation Trilogy,” stole the hearts of many readers. The book centers on a 15-year-old boy and his friends, who believe that aliens are abducting people from their town. This put the young boys on a mission to investigate their allegations. The book went on to win numerous awards and recognitions.

In 2016, “Outre” won in the MidWest Book Festival. It also received a Clue Award, along with the YA suspense.

Aside from being an inspiring professor, and a talented writer, Adamson also involves herself with the community. Once of month, she speaks in women’s clubs and libraries, where she teaches about different aspects of writing.

To further encourage her students to write, Adamson has made it possible for potential writers to submit their creative work, such as journals and photographs. Upon submission, the students’ work gets published on her blog. Her creation of a safe place for students to submit their work to be showcased, gives students a sense of appreciation for their interests and passions and allows them to be viewed by her 1300 followers.

“Professor Adamson’s teaching style is different than any other teachers, she guides you through every single detail,” said Lilit Hartoonian, a student who feels empower by Adamson’s influence. Majd Kayak, another student said, “Professor Adamson is very knowledgeable and intelligent. Asks stimulating questions; good at explaining.” He feels that she can read his mind.

Despite her busy agenda, the author and teacher, is planning on launching her newest book, “At the Edge of No Return.” The book focuses on a behavioral psychologist, who is looking at the theory of quantum consciousness in our relationship to understanding human and criminal behavior.

“Writing for me is leaving an imprint. Even a simple “Who done it” can teach, offers hope and gives an eye into the state of what it means to be human.”