Noah McQueen, a PhD student in Chemical Engineering, has been chosen as the 2020 Teaching Assistant (TA) of the Year. In her nomination letter, Dr. Jennifer Wilcox stated that when compared to all other TA’s she has worked with; Noah singularly stands out as the star TA. Nine students wrote letters to show appreciation for the time he took to help them succeed in their work. Each one highlighted how Noah gave his time to help them when they needed it most.
"Noah worked hard ahead of office hours to make sure he had all of the problems and concepts mastered so that he could be as effective as possible in teaching content and answering the students’ questions. Noah is truly an exceptional TA and student in general,” shared Professor Wilcox. “Despite the fact that I push him hard on his PhD work, he never comprised the importance of his role as TA or helping students. He is truly a star in all respects. In addition, Noah never undermines a student’s ability and potential to succeed. He encourages students always. On numerous occasions, I’ve had students tell me that they wouldn’t have made it through the sophomore sequence if it wasn’t for Noah’s support and encouragement. Noah is kind, considerate, smart and he prioritizes his students. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this TA award than Noah.”
Noah shared his thoughts about winning the award, “I am honored both to receive this award and to have shared a part of my experience at WPI with such talented and wonderful students! Each student brings something to the table, and it is inspiring and encouraging not only to help them through a rigorous curriculum but to watch them succeed.”