Undergraduate Teaching Assistants (UGTAs) make up an integral part of the Introductory Biology courses at Binghamton University. Each semester during the academic year (Fall and Spring), the Introductory Biology teaching team recruits new undergraduate TAs for all three courses, BIOL 113, BIOL 114, and BIOL 115.
What skills will you gain from the experience?
Leadership
Teamwork
Communication
Time Management
Organization
Conflict resolution
Professional Networking with Faculty
Testimonials from past and current UGTAs:
"Being a TA for BIOL 115 has not only allowed me to grow personally and professionally but it is also one of my most cherished experiences of undergrad."
"After being a TA for BIOL115 for two semesters, I realized that being a teacher isn’t as daunting as I had imagined. In fact, it has been an amazing experience for me and a pleasure to learn and grow in the classroom alongside such intelligent and creative colleagues. Being a TA has taught me so much about biology and myself as a young professional. I consider myself very lucky."
"Being an undergraduate TA for BIOL114 has elevated my experience at Binghamton. Professor Smyth and Armstrong give UGTA's a great working environment by providing us with responsibilities that no other undergraduate TA's on campus get. I love walking into a classroom and helping out my fellow undergraduates."
"I feel like a great resource not only to my students, but to Dr. Smyth and Dr. Armstrong with how much I am involved in decision-making. I enjoy how welcoming and kind everyone on the team is, it makes me feel more comfortable to give my opinion and/or ask questions. Being a TA has benefitted me in feeling more comfortable teaching BIOL114 material to my students. I genuinely enjoy being a BIOL114 TA and continue to TA for more semesters because I look forward to teaching material, answering questions, and taking on the responsibilities of a TA."
"Intro to Cell Biology [BIOL 113] is a fundamental class that influences many students' career decisions. I enjoy being able to fully immerse and aid students in the scientific proposal project because it emulates a real research experience. Helping students learn to think on their feet, and to be their guide going into unknown territories is a unique and fulfilling experience. The reason I have been a returning TA for four semesters is because of the 'eureka' moments that I have seen on students’ faces for four semesters straight. Helping someone reach their epiphany is an experience I hope everyone experiences at least once in their lives. Being a TA for this class has allowed me to experience that for nearly two years."
"I love being a TA for BIOL113 because I can connect with students and be a mentor to those who are struggling or in need of academic support. As a TA I have grown as an individual and have become much more confident, both in my knowledge of biology and my ability to lead. It's been 5 semesters now of being a TA, and quitting has never even crossed my mind."