In academia, some professors leave a lasting mark—not just through their expertise but through their passion for teaching and student mentorship. According to many of her students, Joyce Adjei is one of them.
“I wanted to do medicine, and my dad suggested nursing… I am so grateful to him for mentioning that,” Adjei said. After completing nursing school, her interest in law emerged. “I came across a lot of lawyers after I finished nursing… I wanted to know more.”
She soon realized that law and healthcare were deeply intertwined, particularly in areas such as policy-making, ethics and patient advocacy.
“Policies are used to support laws, and laws can be used to support policies… so my interest became bigger,” Adjei said.
“The goal when I went to do my master’s was to become a teacher. I felt that if I studied law as well I could teach about healthcare policies in a broader way,” Adjei said.
Her lectures often have lively discussions, pushing students to think critically. Each class feels like an open forum where ideas are exchanged freely.
“In high school, I would help my classmates, and I realized I enjoyed doing that,” Adjei said. Now, as a professor, she describes teaching as a “co-creation of knowing”—a dynamic exchange where she learns from her students just as much as they learn from her.
In the evenings, she trades the classroom for the dance studio, swapping academic rigour for the rhythm of Zumba beats. For her, dancing is not about perfection but joy, movement and letting go of the day’s stress.
“I go for walks. I do Zumba—that is my favourite. Any outdoor activity, I love it,” Adjei said.
When she’s not dancing, she enjoys spending time with family and visiting her home country.
“Ghana is home… I go and eat comfort food and see friends,” Adjei said.
When she does take time to unwind, Adjei enjoys immersing herself in gripping TV dramas. Her choices reflect her professional interests and her love for compelling storytelling.
“I used to watch Grey’s Anatomy because it is very medical. I also like How to Get Away with Murder. Viola Davis is the lead actor. It is an amazing show. Scandal with Kerry Washington is another one I love,” Adjei said
The challenges faced by underrepresented groups in academia are not lost on her. She actively ensures that classrooms are spaces where everyone feels seen and supported.
“You know, as a woman of colour, I am very much aware of my social standing as a minority… So for me, social justice is important,” Adjei said.
Her commitment to social justice extends beyond theory—it is a guiding principle in her work. She strives to create an inclusive environment where students feel supported and valued regardless of their backgrounds.
“Equity is not about giving everyone the same thing, but giving people what they need to succeed. Some students may need extra resources, while others need a different approach to learning. I try to make sure everyone feels seen and supported,” Adjei said.
Students who have taken her courses attest to her impact on their academic journeys.
“Professor Joyce took the time to explain course concepts in a way that was easy to understand, as well as using easy-to-follow examples,” said Ethan Spencer, a first-year student at TRU.
Her career path is not one of limitations but of expansion—proof that an individual can wear different hats and excel in each.
“People find it difficult to reconcile that I am both a nurse and a lawyer because society sees only one path. But this is your journey. If something interests you and an opportunity presents itself—go for it,” Adjei said. “I always tell my students that life is full of surprises, and sometimes, the best decisions come from unexpected moments.”
The Omega’s Professor Spotlight is a series where we reintroduce you to some of the university’s most popular faculty members. If you would like to nominate a professor, lecturer, or sessional instructor for their own Professor Spotlight, you’re encouraged to email the Omega’s arts editor, Augustus Holman, by email at auggietaylor6284@gmail.com.