Graduate Assistant for Student Union

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1 full-time (20 hours a week)

Primary Purpose

The Graduate Assistant provides support for the office of Student Engagement & Leadership Development, which is within the Department of Student Life and Division of Student Success. This role is designed to foster community and growth within the Rhode Island College (RIC) Student Union. The GA will support the daily operations and services of the Student Union, manage student staff, assist with event coordination, and contribute to the creation, staffing, and promotion of Student Engagement initiatives. The GA will also assist with research & assessment, marketing, and contribute to creating vibrant campus life at RIC. Specialization based on skills and experience will be considered when identifying primary areas of focus for the role.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Develop leadership and supervisory skills by recruiting, training, and mentoring student staff.
  • Gain hands-on experience in event planning, management, logistics, and execution.
  • Enhance problem-solving, organizational, and communication abilities in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.
  • Learn and apply policy development and implementation in a higher education setting.
  • Build professional experience in student engagement, programming, and operational management.
  • Enhance research, data analysis, and presentation abilities.
  • Develop leadership and networking skills, fostering partnerships within RIC’s and external community partners.
  • Receive professional mentorship, insight into educational administration, and a comprehensive understanding of student engagement in higher education.

Student Union & Operations

  • Support daily operations of the Student Union, including managing The Student Life Hub and event spaces.
  • Recruit, select, train, and develop Student Union Operations Assistants (OAs).
  • Provide staffing coverage during and after business hours, including nights and weekends.
  • Utilize RIC Rooms and Event Management Systems for space reservations.
  • Enforce college and departmental policies to maintain a positive, orderly atmosphere.
  • Assist with developing and updating the Student Union Manual and operational policies.
  • Complete assigned tasks and work shifts at The Student Life Hub.

Student Development, Leadership, & Programming

  • Student Organizations & Fraternity and Sorority Life
    • Support, enhance, and maintain systems and processes.
    • Support in coordinating events and programs with student organizations.
  • Coordinate event planning, setup, and breakdown for activities held in Student Union spaces.
  • Provide staffing support for large-scale departmental events throughout the academic year.
  • Develop and implement programming and marketing that showcases the Student Union and Student Engagement & Leadership Development initiatives.

Other

  • Collaborate with fellow SELD GAs and staff on projects and initiatives
  • Attendance at regular supervisory meetings, professional staff meetings, and additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Refer to RIC Graduate Studies qualifications for full eligibility
  • Admission to a graduate degree program at Rhode Island College and/or full time (6-9 credits) graduate degree students
  • Preferred experience in operations, event planning, student involvement, marketing, leadership programs, and assessment.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills, problem solving skills, organizational aptitude, and interest and ability to work well with a diverse population of students.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365, Canva, and social media management is beneficial.
  • At least two semesters of experience as a Student Union Operations Assistant or in a similar position within the Student Union (preferred)

Learning Opportunities

  • Develop leadership and supervisory skills by recruiting, training, and mentoring student staff.
  • Gain hands-on experience in event planning, management, logistics, and execution.
  • Learn all aspects of building management and operations, as well as develop best practices for space utilization, allocation, and functions.
  • Enhance analytical and critical thinking skills through research, assessment, and data-driven decision-making to improve Student Union operations and programming.
  • Strengthen marketing and communication skills by creating promotional materials, managing social media platforms, and executing targeted campaigns to increase awareness of SELD initiatives.
  • Learn to foster inclusive, student-centered environments by developing programs and services that cater to diverse student populations.
  • Build expertise in aspects of project management, including planning, executing, and evaluating large-scale departmental and campus-wide events.
  • Enhance collaboration and relationship-building abilities by working with campus partners, student organizations, and external stakeholders to achieve shared goals.
  • Acquire practical experience in policy development, operational planning, and implementing best practices in higher education settings.

Preferred Availability

  • Start in August, prior to the start of the semester.
  • Fall and Spring semesters while class is in session.
  • Maintain 20 hours per week.
  • Flexible availability, with some evening and weekend work required.

How to Apply

Please complete a Graduate Assistant Application, submit a resume, and corroborating documentation for related experience. Send to Jessica Raffaele, Director of Student Engagement & Leadership Development