TAing and the EEE
I just started my required stint of TAing here for grad school. I must say it’s been much more enjoyable than I thought it would be. It’s still a huge time commitment, but at least it’s something I like. And the fact that my school is actually in the 21st century makes it a whole lot easier to deal with.
Ok, so the fact that the entire system is paperless makes me crazy at times (info that I can’t find about - what are my requirements? what coverage does my healthcare actually provide me?), but it has made school just that much easier. When I was an undergrad, professors were just starting to make webpages for their classes, and doing presentations with powerpoint, or at least with some computer input. Now there’s no excuse why every class doesn’t have a website. UCI has this thing called the “EEE.” On it you can check your class information, get your grades, and, as an instructor, provide your students their grades, let them fill out evaluations, etc. I was so excited when I saw all the tools I was given as a TA (you’re not always given access to them as a TA), especially the gradebook. After only two days I was able to send out class emails, and provide my students with grades for their first quiz. I truly ♥ the EEE. 
