Untitled Document UW addressing graduate student concerns Last Wednesday, The Daily endorsed recognition of unionization and collective bargaining for teaching assistants. Since then, some students have raised questions about the administration's stance on this matter. I want to explain the administration's reasons for not agreeing to recognize a TA union. Graduate students are immensely important to the University of Washington. This has always been true - it is true now more than ever before.
Graduate students are, by definition, the future of the academic profession.
They are the future professors, researchers, deans, provosts and presidents of this and all other universities. They are also the future scientists, leaders, administrators, and professionals here and abroad. They are a select group of talented students admitted to their programs through a rigorous and highly competitive admissions process. To prepare students for these future careers, many graduate students receive financial support for their practical experience in teaching and research in the form of graduate assistantships. This support provides a stipend, health benefits, and a waiver of tuition.