Columbia University graduate students preparing for their first TA assignment in Fall 2026 are invited to join the CTL for a newly-expanded Teaching Orientation for Graduate Students. This in-person offering complements the on-demand orientation modules available via Courseworks.
Participants in the in-person orientation will leave with:
- A plan for the first day of class, as well as strategies to overcome common TA challenges
- Guidance on setting expectations for and engaging with your students
- A peer mentorship network of first time and more experienced TAs
A morning session for all registrants will run from 9:30 am - 12:00 pm, featuring the following:
- A panel of experienced graduate student instructors from a range of disciplines who will share how they’ve set expectations for and with students, planned the first day of class activities, navigated challenges with facilitating discussion, and coordinated effectively with faculty instructors
- Activities to directly prepare you for your teaching assignment, through the development of your own policies and first day of class lesson plans
Additional activities available to a limited number of registrants will run from 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm, for those interested in individualized guidance and practice. These activities include:
- A lunch provided by CTL, featuring informal conversations with experienced and new TAs
- A Practice Teaching session, providing a chance to try out and get supportive feedback on icebreaker or early class activities
Graduate students may request to register for the live orientation for just the morning session, or for the full day:
- Morning session only, 9:30 am - 12:00 pm (coffee provided) - request to attend here
- Full day, 9:30 am - 3:00 pm (coffee and lunch provided) - request to attend here
Note that these slots are limited due to resource and staffing constraints; please request this one only if you are committed to participating for the full day.
Please email [email protected] with questions. Columbia University makes every effort to accommodate individuals with disabilities. Contact [email protected] or 212.854.1692 for accommodations.
This event may be photographed. Note, if this is an online event, CTL staff may take screenshots.
