Not only has this been a fun project for me, complete departure as it is from my usual subjects, the TA trainng illustrations hold some good lessons for me in my own teaching. With only a year under my belt, I am still learning how best to encourage and motivate students. Turns out it's not only the students who don't care or don't try who get C's, and when they come looking for help, it's really important not to scare them away. Sometimes it feels like the most challenging part of the job takes place outside of the classroom. I may never get used to the tears, but hopefully I will grow to respond without an awkwardness akin to watching a commercial for feminine hygiene products with one's father.