Serving as a teacher’s assistant can come with many perks, but also boast its fair share of struggles. Regardless, though, having the experience of the service-learning course is certainly always worthwhile.
1. You have a great relationship with your faculty mentor.
Hands down, one of the most rewarding aspects of being a teacher’s assistant is becoming fast friends with your faculty mentor. It’s easy, because you see each other so much during the week, to build a lasting relationship that will certainly benefit you throughout your college journey.
2. You’re a weird hybrid between a professor and a student, and it can be awkward.
Sometimes, it’s difficult for TAs to find their place as a liaison between teacher and pupil. You obviously know what you’re talking about, but it might not resonate as well with the students because they see you as their equal, not someone with a bit more authority. You don’t want to be overbearing or under helpful, and determining the perfect balance can be tricky. But, if you stick with it, you’ll get into the groove in no time!
3. You’re lowkey an expert on the subject you’re serving.
Since you’ve taken the class before, it’s easy to remember assignments, helpful information, etc., and you can help your students simply because you have prior experience with the subject matter. Additionally, you can anticipate the big picture ideas students should watch out for, and know how to interpret otherwise dense information.
4. Instructing students who are older than you is uncomfortable.
Especially if you are an underclassmen, being a teacher’s assistant for a classroom with upperclassmen or adult students can be daunting. You always want to be respectful, yet it can sometimes lead to uncertainty over exactly how to assist them. In those situations, though, it’s always best to assume they need your help just like the other students and do your job like you normally do.
5. You begin to maybe sort of actually think like a professor.
It’s a scary moment. If you’ve gotten in the groove of being a teacher’s assistant, it becomes easier to take on the role of a quasi-professor. Sometimes, you might even be able to finish their thoughts or help them plan lessons.
6. It’s the best feeling in the world when students approach you for help.
A lot of the time as a TA, you may feel pretty darn useless. Especially if it’s a slow day around the classroom, you may go an entire hour and 15 minute period without uttering a word or getting up from your seat. So, when a student actually comes to you for help without you prompting the interaction, it is incredibly rewarding.
7. Some days, you have no earthly idea what you’re doing.
And that’s okay! Like anything else, serving as a teacher’s assistant is a learning opportunity. You obviously were chosen for a reason, so don’t sweat it if you can’t keep up sometimes. The beautiful part about it is that you are learning valuable skills that you can carry with you in both your academic and professional careers. Keep your head up, you’ll do fine!