Shaghayegh (Shay) Chavoshian has won a 2024 TA Teaching Excellence Award from the University of Toronto’s Teaching Assistant Training Program (TATP). Shay, a PhD student at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering (BME), is one of the five recipients this year. This prestigious award acknowledges the remarkable contributions of teaching assistants who inspire and challenge undergraduate students, significantly enhancing their learning experience.
The Teaching Assistant Teaching Excellence Award, established in 2003 by the TATP, recognizes the exceptional dedication and impact of TAs at the University of Toronto. Shay Chavoshian’s commitment to teaching excellence and her significant influence on student learning have earned her this esteemed honour.
Since beginning her PhD in January 2022, Shay has held over ten teaching assistant appointments across various departments, including Biomedical Engineering (BME), Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE), Computer Science (CS), and Mechanical and Industrial Engineering (MIE). Her versatile roles have spanned tutorial TA, classroom support TA, office hour TA, marking TA, and lab TA, reflecting her comprehensive engagement and dedication across both undergraduate and graduate courses.
Reflecting on this recognition, Shay stated, “This award is a significant recognition of my dedication to teaching and mentorship.”
In addition to being named a recipient of the 2024 TA Teaching Excellence Award, Shay’s commitment to both her academic research and entrepreneurial initiatives has been notably recognized at the 2024 International Conference on Aging, Innovation, and Rehabilitation (ICAIR). She received the first place award for her PhD research and secured second place in the Concept Power Play Pitch Competition with her innovative entrepreneurial idea. Aside from her work in teaching, research, and entrepreneurship, Shay was recognized as the volunteer of the month by UHN STEM Pathways in January 2024. She has contributed to the outreach efforts and engaged with youth interested in STEM.
The Institute of Biomedical Engineering takes immense pride in celebrating the achievements of teaching assistants like Shay Chavoshian, whose work significantly contributes to the academic and personal growth of students. Her dedication and passion exemplify the values of the University and the spirit of the Teaching Assistants’ Training Program’s Teaching Excellence Award.