Application FAQs:
How many new TAs do you plan to bring in this semester?
The number of new TAs varies from semester-to-semester for all 3 courses. The final number depends on how many TAs are returning and estimates for future needs.
I'm currently in my first semester at Binghamton. Am I eligible to be a TA next semester?
It depends on the number of credits you've completed at Binghamton, and your current GPA. In many cases, it may be better to wait until you've completed the semester, then apply in the spring to be a TA the following fall.
What should I consider when ranking the courses I am interested in TAing for in the application? Does ranking one over the other impact which course(s) I am considered for?
Rankings are important in terms of who is likely to review your application. Initially, your application is only evaluated for the course you indicated as your top choice. In certain circumstances, you may be evaluated for the course(s) you selected as your second or third choice, but this is rare.
If I don’t have any previous TA experience, should I even bother applying?
Yes, please apply! While past teaching experience is helpful, it is not a requirement for UGTAs. Each semester we bring in new TAs who may or may not have taught in a classroom setting previously.
Should I include credits I am currently taking for the question in the application asking for total number of credits completed by the end of the semester?
Yes
How do I get/upload a copy of my unofficial transcript for the TA application?
Log into BUBrain and go to the "Your Records" tab. Click "Online Academic Transcripts" and hit "submit". You may either take screen shots of the full unofficial transcript or right click and choose "print", then instead of printing, use the dropdown to save as a PDF.
Can I ask a TA I've had in the past to serve as a reference for my application?
You may only use a BIOLOGY graduate TA as a reference. Please do not use graduate TAs from outside of Biology or any undergraduate TAs.
TA Duties FAQs:
As a TA, will I be teaching in the classroom on my own?
No, in all 3 courses UGTAs are paired with a graduate TA in the classroom. However, there are opportunities to take the lead in presenting some content.
What is the difference between lecture TAs and discussion/lab TAs in BIOL113/114/115, and can I apply for both?
BIOL113/114/115 lecture TAs complete tasks associated with lecture such as helping students complete problems during lecture, proctoring exams and holding study sessions. Lecture TA positions are only available for students that have been a discussion/lab TA for BIOL113/114/115 for one semester. Interested returning TAs should contact Dr. Armstrong for BIOL114, Dr. Marcus for BIOL113 and Dr. Pearce for BIOL 115 for instructions on how to apply.
Are TA meetings mandatory?
Yes. In order to TA for BIOL113/114/115, you must be available for the full 2-hour TA meeting. As you plan your schedule for next semester, this is the most important time slot to plan around. The TA meeting times for next semester can be found on the general information page.
TA Logistics FAQs:
How many credits do I get for being a teaching assistant? How am I graded?
New UGTAs are registered for 2 credits of BIOL491. These 2 credits are taken as Pass/Fail and will NOT count towards upper level Biology credit requirements. However, they do count for upper level Harpur credit requirements.
If an UGTA returns for a second semester, they can then be registered (only ONCE) for BIOL391. This is a 2 credit P/F course and will count towards upper level Biology credit requirements.
See the "General Information" Tab for further details.
Do I need to register for the lab/discussion section that I want to TA for?
No. Section scheduling will be coordinated by Dr. Smyth (BIOL 113 and BIOL 114) and Dr. Pearce (BIOL 115). TAs do not need to register for the course or the section to which they are assigned. TAs will be registered for BIOL391/BIOL491 and attend the section they teach without formally registering for it.
Do I have to be a Biology major to be a TA?
No, you do not need to be a Biology major. You must, however, have at least taken the course for which you would like to TA*.
*For BIOL 115, if you have completed an FRI research stream that fulfills the BIOL115 requirement, you may apply as a TA for BIOL 115 even though you have not taken the course.
Is there a GPA minimum requirement to be a TA?
Technically, Harpur College requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 to be an UGTA. However, we are allowed to make exceptions (and have done so in the past). If you have a lower GPA you may explain your situation in the appropriate section of the application form.