GoKawiilMIT alum recounts how a TA's encouragement followed a failing chemistry grade
A former MIT student recalls scoring 49 out of 100 on their first exam in 3.091, Introduction to Solid-State Chemistry, in fall 1980. The teaching assistant, Leszek Pawlowicz, returned the paper with a smile and told the student he expected them to double their score on the next quiz.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The anecdote highlights how individual mentorship and encouragement from teaching staff can shape a student's academic trajectory, particularly after an early setback. It suggests that supportive feedback, rather than only grades, can influence persistence in difficult technical subjects.
- A student recalls failing their first MIT exam in 1980 with a score of 49/100.
- Teaching assistant Leszek Pawlowicz responded with encouragement rather than criticism.
- The story frames supportive mentorship as a memorable, formative moment in the student's education.
Source: technologyreview.com — Tom Davis, 2026-10-20
Published there as: “A good TA: priceless”
Read the original report → The summary and analysis above are GoKawiil's own, written from reporting by the source above. Facts and quotes belong to the original publisher.