Denise Hinds on the T.A. Experience – Staying Connected with Students

Denise Hinds MBA(L) Class of 2020
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As a student in the MBA FS/L program, intensives were always my favourite. During this time, the course material came together so perfectly, and I had the opportunity to work with the best bunch of people in the program.  For those who I did not work with, I am sure you would challenge me on this, because you would say the same about your groups. That is just the nature of the program.  You are bound to be inspired by such amazing peers, staff, and faculty. How does one leave this behind when they graduate?

You don’t! I remember many DAL alumni who guided and supported my journey, and I knew I wanted to stay involved in this community and give back.  The honour to serve as an ambassador for the MBA class of 2020 was just the beginning. I am DAL proud to share my testimonial at MBA FS/L information events and orientation sessions.  Since graduating, I contribute regularly to the DAL Insight Circle (by sharing my thoughts, perspectives and opinions on important university initiatives and decisions).

When the opportunity presented itself to be a Teaching Assistant (TA) with Professor Heidi Weigand for the MBA’s Leading in Complexity course, I was thrilled. This allowed me to experience the best part of my academic endeavours all over again, while being mentored in the process. As I strive to make a positive impact, I am learning the art of facilitation, balanced feedback, and have been given the freedoms to create tutorials. I am happy that these lessons will continue as I work with Professor Weigand again as TA for the MBA Sustainable Leadership course during the summer.

As we work in a virtual setting, our ability to connect with students is a critical factor. From the onset of the course, Professor Weigand made sure that the TAs and the students were fully supported. We had several collaborative tools at our disposal.  These tools included email, live events, course content videos, Brightspace discussion threads, live and recorded TA tutorials, as well as an MS Teams channel, chats, and meetings.  Also, Professor Weigand and the TAs were available to provide one-on-ones on a regular basis. All these interactions and methods contributed to our goal of staying connected with students.

One moment that stands out, was during the on-line intensive when Professor Weigand facilitated an open dialogue and students shared their appreciation of fellow cohorts. Professor Weigand thanked her TAs, and we expressed our gratitude as well. As I begin a new chapter, I am reminded that intensives are still my favourite time. The focus is less about the course material, while still impressive, but more about this network of DAL students, staff, and faculty, as we come together.  Now a DAL alumna and TA, I am inspired to guide students and support them in their journey, with my renewed perspective.

Denise Hinds MBA(L) Class of 2020

“Without the cohort of talented and dedicated TAs, the experience would have been so much harder for students and faculty members.  We know that we put you through the paces this year and we are grateful for your energy and commitment.” Dean Kim Brooks