Teacher's assistants, help fom those who have been in your shoes

Professors at UW-Green Bay and other universities around the country have implemented the use of teaching assistants for years. Jessica Knox, a senior human development major, is involved on campus and throughout the state with Residence Hall organizations. Nick Schwei, a senior English and education major, works on campus, serves as a Student Ambassador and is involved in campus taskforces. Kristy Sipiorski, a senior communication major, is in her final semester and is married with two children. All three students have something in common: they serve as teaching assistants, or TAs, for faculty here at UWGB. The role of a TA is to offer academic support for a specific course by helping students with exams, projects and other concerns, as well as assisting the instructor as needed throughout the course. In exchange for their time and effort, most TAs earn academic credits. Sometimes academic support for students comes in the form of facilitating review sessions, personal help outside of class, assistance with projects or class expectations. This practice not only benefits students in the class, but TAs can garner field-related experience. In a previous semester, Knox served as a TA for an Introductory Statistics course and was selected through an application process. "I was excited about a chance to help students and gain a little teaching experience," Knox said. "A TA can be a great resource to students, and it can be less intimidating to learn and get help from a TA than from a professor." Schwei serves as a TA for a freshman seminar English course offered in the humanistic studies department. He said the position changes according to what is needed for the class. "My role as a TA varies depending on the day," Schwei said. "During the semester, I've served as a leader for small group discussions, helped to prepare materials for lectures and have lectured on one occasion. Most importantly, I serve as a peer mentor to the students in the class. If they have questions regarding course content, assignment requirements or opportunities for involvement on campus, I am always available to lend assistance." Sipiorski agrees that a TA is present for both the faculty and the students. "You're there more as support," Sipiorski said. "I may help facilitate exam reviews or group work or do things that the professor needs." As with any mentoring position, there are highs and lows to the TA experience. "It was definitely a time commitment, and I did not enjoy grading exams," Knox said. "The real highlight of the experience was helping students achieve. That was really amazing." Schwei enjoyed the different perspective offered by the TA position. "The best part about being a TA is the ability to see the classroom from the other side," Schwei said. "I have the ability to observe and be involved in the atmosphere of the class and the development of classroom dynamics." Balancing a busy schedule of classes, work and other commitments may be difficult, but these TAs say it is worth the effort. "Today I was working with groups on their projects," Sipiorski said. "I would see the light bulb go on when I was able to explain something from experience. That's really what is the best to me. I love being able to help and make a difference." All three would suggest the experience to fellow students. "I would definitely recommend it if you have the time," Knox said. "It is well worth it." Schwei agreed. "This truly is a great opportunity," Schwei said. "I would recommend any student looking to become a TA to contact professors who they have a strong working relationship with and inquire about opportunities. I've really learned a lot through this experience."