Graduate TA Award: Andrew Leal

We are so excited to announce that Andrew Leal has won the Winter 2024 TA Award!

Andrew was nominated this term by Christopher Chukwu, a student in his ECON 762 course. Andrew has been recognized by both Economics students and faculty as going above and beyond for his students. Christopher explained in his nomination that Andrew would often extend office hours and tutorials for more than the allotted 2 hours, and used graphs, and diagrams to ensure his students understood the course material. His understanding of the course material, and key concepts came through for his students in the in depth detail he would explain the curriculum, providing an insightful learning experience. He continues to be seen as considerate and approachable, and that without his help, the students would have significantly struggled through the course. He makes his teaching accessible, meeting students where they are at, and getting them to where they need to be!

“Andrew characterizes one of the purest forms of what the standard of a true educator should be. Much like Richard Feynman, when writing about the purpose of teachers says, “we should teach them [the students] wonders and that the purpose of knowledge is to appreciate wonders even more”, Andrew is an inspiring educator and encourages us to keep learning and working toward understanding.” (Keith Roberts)

We are so excited for Andrew, this win is well deserved!