Peer Tutoring & Teaching Assistantships

Peer tutoring and teaching assistantships at the University of Cincinnati offer valuable opportunities for students to gain professional experience while pursuing their academic goals. These roles provide practical skills, enhance resumes, and foster personal and professional growth, all while contributing to the university community. Below is an overview of how these opportunities work at UC, their benefits, and how students can get involved.

Peer Tutoring 

Peer tutoring involves students helping their peers in specific courses or subjects, typically through one-on-one or small group sessions. At UC, peer tutoring is often facilitated through units like the Learning Commons, which provides academic support for undergraduate students across various disciplines. Tutors are typically upper-level students with strong academic records in the subjects they tutor.

  • Learning Commons Peer Tutoring: The Learning Commons at UC offers free tutoring services in subjects such as math, science, writing, and more. Peer tutors are trained to assist students with coursework, study strategies, and problem-solving skills. 
  • Other Units: Some colleges within UC, such as the College of Arts and Sciences or the College of Engineering and Applied Science, may offer department-specific tutoring programs. Many tutoring roles have been referred to the Learning Commons for employment in recent years. 
  • Training and Support: Tutors receive training in pedagogy, communication, and inclusive teaching practices to ensure they can effectively support diverse learners. 
  • Compensation: All peer tutoring roles within the Learning Commons are paid positions. 
  • Teaching and Communication Skills: Tutors develop the ability to explain complex concepts clearly, adapt to different learning styles, and communicate effectively. These skills are transferable to careers in education, management, or any field requiring clear instruction. 
  • Leadership Development: Tutors often lead study groups or workshops, fostering leadership and teamwork skills. 
  • Subject Mastery: Preparing to tutor reinforces a deep understanding of the subject matter, which can enhance academic performance and confidence. 
  • Networking: Working with faculty, staff, and peers builds professional relationships that can lead to mentorship or job opportunities. 
  • Resume Enhancement: Peer tutoring demonstrates initiative, responsibility, and expertise, making it an attractive addition to a resume or graduate school application.
  • Check the Learning Commons website or UC’s job portal (e.g., Handshake) for open peer tutoring positions. 
  • Contact academic departments directly to inquire about tutoring opportunities specific to your major. 
  • Maintain a strong GPA (typically 3.0 or higher) in the subject area and secure faculty recommendations, as these are sometimes required. 
  • Attend training sessions or workshops offered by the Learning Commons to prepare for the role.

Teaching Assistantships 

Teaching assistantships (TAs) are typically available to graduate students, though some opportunities exist for advanced undergraduates. TAs assist faculty with teaching responsibilities, such as grading, leading discussion sections, or delivering lectures. At UC, TA positions are common in departments like English, Math, Chemistry, and Engineering, among others.

  • Graduate TAs: Most TA positions are awarded to graduate students as part of funding packages. These roles may involve teaching introductory courses, leading labs, or supporting faculty research. 
  • Responsibilities: Duties vary but may include preparing course materials, grading assignments, holding office hours, or leading tutorials. TAs work closely with faculty and gain insight into academic processes. 
  • Compensation: Graduate TAs often receive a stipend and tuition remission, while undergraduate TAs may be paid hourly or receive academic credit.
  • Instructional Experience: TAs gain hands-on experience in classroom management, curriculum design, and delivering content, which is invaluable for careers in academia or training. 
  • Time Management and Organization: Balancing TA duties with coursework hones multitasking and prioritization skills. 
  • Mentorship and Collaboration: Working closely with faculty provides mentorship opportunities and exposure to academic research or teaching methods. 
  • Professional Development: TAs often participate in workshops on teaching techniques, assessment, or academic technology, enhancing their skill set. 
  • Career Preparation: TA experience is highly regarded in fields like education, research, or any role requiring presentation and leadership skills.
  • Graduate Students: Apply through your department during the graduate admissions process or inquire with your academic advisor about TA opportunities. Most positions are advertised internally within departments. 
  • Check UC’s job portal (Handshake) or department websites for posted TA positions. 
  • Network with faculty by excelling in their courses or participating in research projects, as personal recommendations often play a role in selection.
  • Time Commitment: Both peer tutoring and TA roles require balancing academic and professional responsibilities. Students should assess their schedules to ensure they can manage the workload. 
  • Skill Development Across Disciplines: These roles are not limited to education majors. Students in STEM, humanities, or business can benefit from the transferable skills gained. 
  • Impact on the Community: By serving as a tutor or TA, students contribute to UC’s academic community, helping peers succeed and fostering a collaborative learning environment. 
  • Resources: Visit the Learning Commons website tutoring opportunities or contact your academic department for TA roles. 
  • Handshake: UC’s career platform lists peer tutoring and TA positions. 
  • Faculty Connections: Build relationships with professors early, as they can recommend you for these roles or provide references. 
  • Application Process: Be prepared to submit a resume, transcript, and sometimes a letter of interest. Interviews or teaching demonstrations may be required.

Peer tutoring and teaching assistantships at the University of Cincinnati are excellent ways for students to gain professional experience while still in school. These roles develop critical skills like communication, leadership, and time management, which are valuable across industries. They also enhance academic understanding, build professional networks, and strengthen resumes for future career or graduate school applications. By leveraging resources like the Learning Commons, Handshake, and faculty connections, UC students can access these opportunities and make a meaningful impact on their academic and professional journeys.