Meet our Inspire TAs: Sophia Asefi!
Meet our third Inspire Summer teaching assistant: Sophia Asefi! Sophia is a recent UVA graduate, but she’s on her way to becoming a Double Hoo! Sophia has helped with many different Inspire courses this summer, and her expertise has helped the students connect to their passions on a deeper level. Contact us or visit our website to find out more about the Inspire program, and we can’t wait to welcome our next cohorts in 2027!
Q: What is your name, major, and year at UVA?
A: My name is Sophia, and I’m a recent graduate of UVA. I studied statistics and will be returning to UVA for my Masters of Science in Statistics in the fall!
Q: What are you studying, and what drew you to that field?
A: I got my degree in statistics with a concentration in biostatistics. I love logic and problem solving and statistics allow me to use real numbers and data to develop models and plausible solutions. Specifically, I am drawn to clinical trials that develop healthcare treatments to help expand and improve healthcare.
Q: Which Inspire classes have you supported this summer as a teaching assistant? Looking back on the classes you supported this summer, what were some of your favorite moments or highlights?
A: This summer I supported Forensic Science, Engineering for Human Health (Biomedical Engineering), Science of the Mind (Neuroscience) and AI Bootcamp camps. My favorite moment from the Engineering class was the student’s “gallery walk” where they showcased their cancer research project and their interactive design to improve treatment of said cancer. I also enjoyed the field trips including the National Zoo and National Museum of Health and Medicine. It was fun to see how the students applied their learning outside the classroom.
Q: What does a typical day look like in your role at UVA | Northern Virginia?
A: A typical day consists of administrative and classroom assistance. In the classroom, I serve as a resource for the students with any questions they have about the class or the program. I am here for any individual needs the student may have to help them learn in a way that is beneficial and fun for them. If the professor teaching the class needs any assistance preparing materials, setting up or cleaning up an activity, or even help engaging the students, I’m there! I love walking around the classroom and checking in on what the students are working on and how much material they are grasping. In addition, the other TAs and I reset classrooms for the different camps and go on the field trips to ensure safety and engagement! Overall, I am here for the students and do what I can to make this an enjoyable and educational summer experience for each high schooler.
Q: What is the biggest takeaway you’ll carry with you from this experience?
A: My biggest takeaway is to take time to get to know people individually. As a TA, I had more room to learn about the students since I could focus on what they needed and aiding them in their learning. It was amazing to see students warm up to the classroom and truly embrace this learning experience.
Q: What was the most rewarding part of helping high school students this summer?
A: The most rewarding part of this experience was getting to know each student individually. I tried to learn about each student, how they learned best, and what their interests are. It was wonderful to learn about each student’s individual interests, what made them choose the camp they do, and what they hope to do in the future. To see them enjoy their days in camp and see them spark interest in new subjects was incredibly fulfilling.