Student Partner Perspective on the Program: Abi Horton
From the moment I started university, I knew I wanted to be involved in education—both to contribute meaningfully and to build a skill set that would serve me well beyond the classroom. I also knew that opportunities for undergraduates to engage deeply in this space were rare and highly competitive. That’s why I’m especially grateful for ASSETT and the Students as Partners (SaP) program.
Becoming a pedagogical consultant through SaP has been everything I hoped for and more. It’s a role that not only takes students seriously but values them because of their student perspective. The program recognizes that students bring essential insights to the classroom—ones that can directly contribute to more inclusive, effective, and engaging learning environments.
What sets this program apart is its flexibility and emphasis on mentorship. ASSETT encourages students to lean into their strengths and interests, whether that’s research, writing, or developing new ideas in collaboration with faculty. I’ve especially appreciated how supported I’ve felt as someone passionate about writing and academic inquiry.
The hands-on experience has been unmatched. Working closely with a faculty member has given me a behind-the-scenes look at the thoughtful effort that goes into designing a course. I've had the opportunity to elevate student voices, suggest improvements to course materials, and foster meaningful dialogue that bridges the gap between students and instructors. That kind of collaboration—where students and faculty work together as partners—has been truly inspiring.
More than anything, this has been an incredibly supportive environment. I’ve felt seen, heard, and encouraged to grow. I’ve sharpened my research and writing skills, gained practical experience in pedagogy, and developed a deeper understanding of the classroom experience from multiple perspectives.
If you're a student curious about pedagogy or passionate about your field, or an instructor looking to collaborate more intentionally with your students, I cannot recommend ASSETT’s Students as Partners program enough. It's a rare and transformative opportunity.