Event Title
Toward a Competitive Future: The Role of the Graduate Assistant in the Restructured English Capstone Course
Location
Hager-Lubbers Exhibition Hall
Description
PURPOSE: The Grand Valley English Department recently implemented a new English Capstone course intended to better prepare students for life after graduation. As the graduate assistant for this course, I aim to provide and coordinate additional student support. This work allows me to develop skills and gain valuable experience that is essential for my own study and career. CHALLENGE: Managing my allotted 10 hours per week is a central challenge. I cannot anticipate the amount of requests in a given week, so I attempt to create flexibility in my schedule, prioritize tasks, and undertake a manageable amount of new endeavors. EXPERIENCE: My work encompasses various aspects: consulting with students, assisting in classrooms, coordinating with professors and graduate assistants, developing materials, exploring potential resources, and organizing portions of the Capstone Conference. OUTCOME: I have been able to maintain a balance between my various responsibilities. While student requests may increase in subsequent semesters, the current situation allows for the development of materials and methodology, which will provide a stronger framework for the future success of both the course and its students. IMPACT: My work has fostered the development of skills – time management, leadership, foresight, problem solving, and assertiveness – that are vital for success in my own program of study. Furthermore, this experience provides valuable teaching experience which will allow me to be competitive in the job market or in a doctoral program.
Toward a Competitive Future: The Role of the Graduate Assistant in the Restructured English Capstone Course
Hager-Lubbers Exhibition Hall
PURPOSE: The Grand Valley English Department recently implemented a new English Capstone course intended to better prepare students for life after graduation. As the graduate assistant for this course, I aim to provide and coordinate additional student support. This work allows me to develop skills and gain valuable experience that is essential for my own study and career. CHALLENGE: Managing my allotted 10 hours per week is a central challenge. I cannot anticipate the amount of requests in a given week, so I attempt to create flexibility in my schedule, prioritize tasks, and undertake a manageable amount of new endeavors. EXPERIENCE: My work encompasses various aspects: consulting with students, assisting in classrooms, coordinating with professors and graduate assistants, developing materials, exploring potential resources, and organizing portions of the Capstone Conference. OUTCOME: I have been able to maintain a balance between my various responsibilities. While student requests may increase in subsequent semesters, the current situation allows for the development of materials and methodology, which will provide a stronger framework for the future success of both the course and its students. IMPACT: My work has fostered the development of skills – time management, leadership, foresight, problem solving, and assertiveness – that are vital for success in my own program of study. Furthermore, this experience provides valuable teaching experience which will allow me to be competitive in the job market or in a doctoral program.