The University can be an overwhelming place, especially for graduate teaching assistants who are attempting to juggle a full course load with a teaching assistantship. The learning curve is often steep, and without a basic knowledge of the University, it gets even steeper.

So how do you cut through the confusion? We want you to make use of our performing and visual arts programs in your classes, and this site is aimed at helping you to do just that. Below are answers to some commonly asked questions:

WHAT IS THE FINE ARTS CENTER?

The Fine Arts Center consists of six performing arts programs, four art galleries and three educational programs (all are listed under the Centerwide Programs section of this web site). Our events range from dance to sound installations, and our emphasis is on presenting a world view of the arts.

WHAT TEACHING RESOURCES DO YOU OFFER FOR TA's?

From the multitude of teaching resources available at the Fine Arts Center, we have culled those that have particular relevance to TA's seeking to integrate the Center's programs into their curricula. Just click here to go to that part of our site. You may also be interested in some more general information for TA's offered by the Center for Teaching. They offer a TA Handbook and a campus-wide orientation session for TA's.

HOW DO I SIGN UP MY STUDENTS TO ATTEND EVENTS AND EXHIBITS?

Remember that admission to all of our galleries is FREE of charge, except for special events. Most of the educational offerings (such as master classes, residencies, lectures and similar events) are typically offered free of charge as well. And Five College students can get discounted tickets to all of our performing arts events. So here's how you do it: if you want your class to visit an exhibit during gallery open hours (again, check this web site for the gallery hours), just call the gallery in advance to let them know you are coming. If the gallery staff is available at that time, they may even be able to bring your group on a tour. For performing arts events, many teaching assistants just collect money from their students to buy tickets in a block, so everyone can sit together. Otherwise, students can buy their own tickets by calling (413) 545-2511 or visiting our online ordering center. TA's who assign their class to attend a ticketed performing arts event are entitled to one free ticket, based on availability.

HOW CAN I FIND OUT ABOUT WHAT EVENTS AND EXHIBITS ARE SCHEDULED?

We make it easy for you! On this site, you will find two calendars: one lists all the events of the Fine Arts Center, and the other lists just the educational programs that are linked to events--this way you can locate the information that is most useful to you. We hope you will take the time to peruse each calendar to learn about what we have to offer. And don't forget to check back often to learn about new programs that are being added every week!

WHO SHOULD I CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION?

If you have any questions after perusing this site, please feel free to call (413) 545-4164 for additional assistance.