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University
Experience Undergraduate Teaching Assistant Reference |
The information you
provide will be maintained in a confidential file and reviewed only by the
University Experience personnel. No applicant will be selected or rejected on
the basis of a single reference appraisal. To help you understand the position
the applicant seeks, please read the position description below. We solicit
your honest reference. Please submit the completed reference form to University
Experience,
Position
Description
University Experience is a 2-credit elective course for first semester freshmen. The course acquaints the student with the opportunities and demands of higher education and supports students in their transition to the university. In small classes, students build learning skills, practice time management and other life skills, examine the purpose and value of higher education and learn to set goals for this semester and beyond.
Undergraduate Teaching Assistants are successful upper-class students who assist in the University Experience class. They serve as a bridge between instructors and students, as mentors and role models for students, and as support and resource persons. Students can go to Teaching Assistants with questions, get help with studying or writing from them, or just hang out with them. They are an invaluable part of the University Experience program.
The ideal Undergraduate Teaching Assistant is patient, consistent, dependable, and possesses a high energy level, strong communication skills, and the ability to work effectively as a team member. The applicant’s personality, attitude, and ability to remain positive and functional during the semester will be extremely important to enduring a successful class.
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Applicant’s Name:
_______________________________________________________ Relationship to
Applicant: _________________________________________________ (Employer, teacher, USF Faculty or Staff, etc.) Your name:
______________________________________________________________ Position/Title:
____________________________________________________________ Company/Institution:
______________________________________________________ |
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Knowledge of
Applicant |
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How long have you known the applicant? ___________________
Describe the context in which you have known the applicant (be as specific as possible).
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Work Performance |
How competent has the applicant shown him/herself to be in school, on a job or project, or in a position of leadership? Please give specific examples, if possible.
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Human Interaction
Skills |
A University Experience Undergraduate Teaching Assistant works effectively with staff members and with students from a variety of backgrounds. How would you rate the applicant on his/her ability to contribute positively in this context? Please check one box.
□ Outstanding – highly effective in interpersonal relationships, works well individually and in groups, can lead or follow as the situation demands, strong communication skills, very adaptable to circumstances.
□ Good – adaptable, has good communication skills, is dependable and responsible, would be an asset to the work setting described.
□ Average – has average skills relative to others in the age group.
□ Below Average – applicant may encounter difficulties in the setting described; communication skills and maturity are below average for age group.
□ Poor – difficulties in interpersonal relationships.
Please comment on your response by giving specific examples, if possible.
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Emotional Maturity |
Throughout the semester, Undergraduate Teaching Assistants are expected to function well – assessing situations and making appropriate decisions, even under stress. They must remain flexible to lead or follow directions based on the prevailing circumstances and must be open to offer and receive constructive feedback in a mature manner. They will often be challenged to move beyond their normal comfort zones. How would you rate this applicant with these conditions in mind? Please check one box.
□ Outstanding – exceptionally mature and stable, can work well under stress, open to feedback, insightful , emotionally healthy, fun to be around.
□ Good – a mature and emotionally stable person, should meet challenges and expectations in a positive manner that inspires growth.
□ Average – average in maturity and stability for a person his/her age,
□ Below Average – there is reason to question whether the applicant can contribute in this work setting at his/her current emotional maturity level.
□ Poor – applicant is unsuited to work effectively in the work setting and is even likely to have a negative effect upon students and instructors.
Please comment on your response by giving specific examples, if possible.
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Overall Recommendation/Additional Comments (Please check one box) |
□ I recommend the applicant without reservation.
□ I recommend the applicant as a good prospect for your staff.
□ I have concerns, but feel the applicant can rise to the occasion with support and direction.
□ I have significant concerns about the applicant’s ability to work effectively in this setting.
□ I feel the applicants is currently unsuitable for working with college freshmen.
Describe any notable abilities, interests, skills, or experiences that would further enhance the applicant’s ability to work in this setting.
Describe any reservations or potential weaknesses you perceive with regards to the applicant.
Please fold and tape/staple the
reference form and mail to the address below. For additional information call
813-974-4555. Thank you!