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8.14.19 // my new book (feat. the reflection of my MCAT notes I should be studying)

[jungleuniversity]

Landing the Undergrad TA Position

Hi everyone! I've been an undergrad TA for econ for two semesters now and just wanted to share some general advice and information for becoming an undergrad TA. I’ll be speaking from the perspective of an Economics major, but this applies to many other majors as well.

Setting the Stage

Complete introductory level courses with flying colors. Be attentive/participate in class and try to get to know the professor. They do not need to know you very well but should be able to recognize you.

Excelling in the following intermediate courses will set you apart from other students. It is here that many students decide to switch majors or begin to feel challenged. If you did not do as well as you wanted in introductory courses, doing well in the intermediate level shows improvement and mastery of the introductory subject. For me, doing well in intermediate microeconomics resulted in my first interview and later a department scholarship.

Gain relevant experience. Most professors do not require prior teaching experience, but having experience as a department tutor, peer-assisted study session leader, etc. can help set you apart (and give you experience in teaching others).

Finding the Position

In some cases, a professor will actively look for TAs, and in rare cases, may contact you first with an offer. If this happens, grab the opportunity. Do not rely on this happening, however.

Check the relevant department’s website or course sites. Postings for undergraduate TA positions may be on your department’s website or posted by a professor in your current course website (Canvas, Blackboard, etc.). 

Reach out to professors you want to TA for. Sometimes, your best bet is to email the professor you took an introductory course with. Additionally, introductory courses will typically have at least 2 or 3 professors teaching the course at any given time, and it is to your benefit to contact them as well. 

The Interview

This stage can be rather nerve-racking. Try to relax (it’s okay to be nervous!), and dress appropriately (does not have to be very fancy, but don’t look rugged). The interview will likely be ten to fifteen minutes.

You will be asked about why you want to be a TA. This requires a very personal and thoughtful answer and can include anything from a commitment to teaching as a career to a desire to understand the subject on a deeper level by helping others understand it. Think about this beforehand, and be prepared to elaborate in length. 

Part of the “test” during this interview is your speaking skills. By conversing with the professor in a professional, yet relaxed and confident manner, you can prove to them that you are capable of speaking in front of an audience of 30 or more students.

Best of luck,

Shayon

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