Starting out as a GTA can be very exciting, yet very anxiety producing. Not only do new GTAs have to learn their way around campus but, in some cases, they may also struggle to understand what their roles and responsibilities are as a GTA and try to learn to be an effective teacher at the same time. For many, there's a lot to learn quickly. This section of the guide is intended to assist you in getting started with the organization and logistics of your position as a graduate teaching assistant. CTE offers a GTA conference in the summer and provides a number of workshops, seminars, and programs on teaching throughout the year.
Many departments offer specialized orientations for graduate students and for teaching assistants.
You are also encouraged to contact CTE for individual assistance throughout the year. Develop a network . A GTA who does not develop an effective relationship with his or her supervising faculty member can allow tension and frustration to build on both sides. Constant communication is vital. Get concerns out in the open and deal with them .