I have seen students out of the classroom--while walking through halls or elsewhere on campus--and, having an authoritative position as a TA, the interactions are incredibly awkward. I wasn't sure whether or not to maintain the "authority" or to have a conversation with the student. Most of the time it's just a "Hi, how are you," type of conversation, but I'm always worried that students will try to socialize beyond my point of comfortability. Obviously it's easy to leave the conversation, but I'm afraid students will bring up social life and parties and situations that make me extremely uncomfortable. I suppose setting those boundaries could be as simple as saying, "I'd rather not discuss this..."
When I was an undergrad, there wasn't much conversation between professors and myself, especially outside of the classroom. While friendly, there wasn't much past a greeting--and occasionally small talk. I think part of the reason was my being uncomfortable in the situation. I didn't feel comfortable impeding on the professor's boundaries. I'm not sure if this how students would view a TA or instructor in general.
Seeing students out of the classroom tends to be an awkward interaction. Do you carry on a conversation or just say "hello"? Where would you draw the line?
That's a difficult question! I've occasionally felt like I've crossed that line and felt bad about it later, but I think those have always been times when I've shared back with the student. I think listening a bit and laughing when they talk about harmless student activities if fine. Relating sometimes is fine. But if you start sharing too much personal about yourself, that's where it get weird. Obviously everyone has to draw and re-draw that line for themselves as they go.
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