Orientation
Orientation
Before the start of the semester, all new Teaching Fellows and Teaching Assistants are expected to complete the steps below. These steps are designed to help you prepare for your role and for the first week of classes. Some steps must be completed before classes begin, even if the in-person orientation takes place later.
The in-person orientation will build on this preparation and provide additional guidance on instructional and student-support responsibilities, including teaching strategies and protocols, equitable and inclusive teaching, case studies of challenges in practice, additional TF/TA and student resources, an experienced TF panel, Q&A, and an HGSU-UAW presentation (for student TFs only).
Step 1: Complete your Teaching Support (TF/TA) Hiring Form
Download and complete the appropriate form below, then submit it or send any questions to askhr@gse.harvard.edu.
2026-2027 Teaching Fellow Hiring Form (Students)
If you are a registered Harvard graduate student, you should apply as a Teaching Fellow.
2026-2027 Teaching Assistant Hiring Form (non-Students)
Teaching Assistants perform the same role as Teaching Fellows. If you are not a current Harvard student, including alumni, you should apply as a Teaching Assistant.
Step 2: RSVP to the Mandatory Orientation
We host the New TF/TA Orientation at the beginning of every semester. This in-person session is mandatory for first-time HGSE TFs and TAs, even if you have TF/TA experience elsewhere at Harvard. Please submit your RSVP below or request a makeup session.
Step 3: Coordinate with your Teaching Team
Arrange an initial teaching team meeting with your instructor to review expectations for your TF/TA role. You can use the template below to guide discussions on roles and responsibilities.
Teaching Team Roles and Responsibilities Checklist
You may use the checklist to structure your discussion and document your course responsibilities.
Step 4: Prepare Your Introduction
In addition to introducing yourself on the first day of class, please prepare a brief written introduction to share in the syllabus or on the Canvas site. Consider including:
- How students can sign up for office hours
- Calendly Link
- What your office hours are for
- Course-related questions
- Learning about your research or professional interests
- Seeking advice on post-graduate paths
Step 5: Familiarize Yourself with Classroom Infrastructure and Technology
If your role involves classroom technology, we strongly recommend scheduling a brief, individualized training for your assigned classroom.
- Classroom Technology & AV Training: it_onestop@gse.harvard.edu
- IT Service Center (during class): (617) 496-0628
Step 6: Familiarize Yourself with Canvas
If Canvas management is one of your responsibilities, and if you need training on how to use the platform, below are two options:
Step 7: Review Additional Resources
- Quick Reference sheet: A one-page guide that links you to the most commonly used TF resources, so you can quickly find support when questions or issues arise.
- TF/TA Office Request: Contact Lisa Fischer at lisa_fischer@gse.harvard.edu
- Printing Credits: All TFs get printing credits for each course you TF. Submit the form to IT.
- Instructional Resources: Teaching supports that help you plan effective learning experiences, including strategies, tools, and guidance for section-leading, inclusive teaching, and student learning support.