But your membership in the primary professional organizations in your specialty show that you are committed to your profession, and support the work of these organizations. Lots of small favors add up to a big commitment in the end, and you re contribution will be noticed. They hold the keys to the kingdom in the most literal sense of the word. Don t make their job any harder than it has to be. These small kindnesses will smooth your path in many unexpected ways.
Treat is as an opportunity.
This is your big chance to develop your teaching skills, and these skills will be invaluable when it is time to rejoin the real world and apply for jobs. Don t blow off any aspect of your assignment. The course materials and experience you acquire and develop as a TA will prove invaluable when you have to develop your own courses farther down the road. Don t make it worse than it has to be. The temptation to isolate yourself can be overwhelming.