An Interview with Sergio Espinosa

Next in our series of work-routine profiles, we’re hearing from Dr. Sergio Espinosa. Dr. Espinosa is Associate Professor of Music Education, and he joined the faculty at UTA in 2001. In addition to teaching at UTA, Dr. Espinosa also conducts the New Philharmonic Orchestra of Irving and also travels the world as a music examiner for the International Baccalaureate high school program. Today he shares how he is getting his work done at home, without travel or concerts.

What do you do when you wake up?

Every day I wake up because my cat is scratching me asking for her breakfast. This could be somewhere between 4:30 and 5:30 AM.

What is your exercise routine like, and when do you do it?

These days I run 5 K every day. Sometimes it is 7.5 K and probably once a week is 10 K. I do it early in the morning when it is not too hot outside.

Are there any foods you eat every day?

I have been a vegetarian for 30 years. So I would say lots of vegetables every day.

When do you usually start working?

Around 6:00 AM.

What types of work do you do each day?

Recently I was reading many term papers. Now I am working on marking for the International Baccalaureate. I have often Skype conferences with people from all over the world. This is at times challenging. In the past weeks, we had a series of conferences with people from Japan, England, and the Dallas area.

Are you a single-tasker or a multi-tasker?

Single-tasker if the project is very relevant. Otherwise, I multitask when doing clerical work.

Are there any habits you’ve developed for productivity?

I work better when the project is getting closer. I do not procrastinate but a deadline makes me be more productive.

What do you do on a work break, and for how long do you typically take a break?

I do not work for more than 2 hours without a mental break. These days I watch the goals [highlights] of Real Madrid games from the past.

What kinds of chores or household responsibilities are you in charge of?

I am the janitor in this house: garden, pool, painting, fixing things. I am also in charge of preparing breakfast for everyone (including cats). I cook dinners once or twice a week and I also do the laundry.

How do you set goals?

With the 'three hats' that I wear, I have not set goals for many years. The goals are set by themselves.

When do you take stock of whether you’ve achieved your goals?

I have deadlines. It could be: plan a class, adjust a syllabus, grade an assignment, plan a concert season, study a score, prepare a rehearsal, etc. If I complete the task on time, the goal has been achieved.

Do you participate in any working groups, or have regular meetings over the summer?

Normally I do, but they have been cancelled this summer because of Covid-19. So, I guess this Summer I will have long conversations with my cat.

Do you usually work every day, or do you take one or both weekend days off?

I usually work every day.

Anything else you’d like to share?

Covid-19 has been a tragedy for almost everyone. However, we need to try to find benefits if possible. In my case, my two daughters are living at home right now. One usually lives in the Arabian Peninsula and the other one was in Brazil. They left home 3 and 4 years ago. To have them both here has been a joy.

Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more habits and routines!