With the urging of his adviser, Dr. Alicia Mathis, Colton Lynn applied to become a teaching assistant (TA) in the department of biology. There he helps instruct the roughly 250 students in BIO 121. As the senior-most TA, he also helps to mentor the other assistants.

His work in the department earned him the Distinguished TA award. This university-wide accolade recognizes his hard work and dedication to students’ education.

Lynn’s supervisor nominated him. That was followed by an application assessed by a faculty panel, teaching portfolio and CV review by the Graduate College.

This award would have been a surprise for him when he first applied to be a teachers’ assistant.

“When I was first hired for my position, I didn’t think I would like teaching,” said Lynn. “Being a TA quickly became my favorite part of being a graduate student. I absolutely love teaching in the college setting, and I want to continue doing it.”

The award will be given at the Interdisciplinary Forum in the spring.

“It feels good to be recognized for something I have worked so hard on and enjoy so much,” said Lynn.