Graduate Assistant Student Engagement & Leadership Development

Primary Purpose

The Graduate Assistants(s) provide support for the office of Student Engagement & Leadership Development (SELD) which is within the Division of Student Success. The Graduate Assistant will assist in the planning, staffing, and implementation of campus events through SELD, support co-curricular student learning and development, assist with processes and systems in support of student organizations, develop dynamic marketing strategies, contribute to assessment, 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

Student Development & Leadership

• Student Organizations & Fraternity and Sorority Life 
  • Support, enhance, and maintain systems and processes. 
  • Support in coordinating events and programs with student organizations. 
  • Lead training sessions for student leaders, guiding them in organizational skills.
  • Track and analyze program participation and conduct satisfaction and data assessments.
• Contribute to resources and social media content for student leadership opportunities.
• Explore and build new leadership development initiatives, community engagement, and mentorship programs.

Events/Programming

• Assist in the planning and implementation of campus events, such as theme weeks, event series, and campus traditions.
• Serve as staff members for both on and off campus events, including scheduling, logistics, setup, and supply inventory.
• Mentor student staff in programming skills and assist in recruiting/managing volunteers.
• Conduct research to introduce innovative programming ideas.
• Develop resources for student involvement and contribute to program assessments.

Marketing

• Help to create and oversee event calendars, communication, and internal planning systems.
• Assist with marketing student workers and coordinate marketing campaigns.
• Maintain social media accounts and track program participation.

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 workshop facilitation, event planning, student involvement, marketing, leadership programs, and assessment.
• Effective oral and written communication 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.

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.

Learning Opportunities

• Gain practical skills in program planning, event promotion, and assessment.
• Build proficiency in social media management, workshop facilitation, and communication.
• 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.
• Benefit from a comprehensive understanding of co-curricular experience, preparing them for advanced roles in higher education administration or related fields.
• Apply their knowledge of student development theories and organizational behavior.
• Enhance Leadership Skills: Develop advanced leadership and supervisory abilities by mentoring student leaders and student employees, facilitating workshops, and managing student organizations and volunteers.
• Event Planning and Execution: Gain comprehensive experience in planning, promoting, and implementing campus-wide events, including logistics coordination, budgeting, and post-event assessment.
• Strengthen marketing and communication skills by creating promotional materials, managing social media platforms, and executing targeted campaigns to increase awareness of SELD initiatives.
• Develop Data and Assessment Competencies: Hone skills in data collection, analysis, and reporting to evaluate program effectiveness, track student participation, and recommend improvements.
• Foster Inclusive Practices: Learn to create programs and services that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.
• Gain Policy and Systems Knowledge: Acquire hands-on experience in maintaining and improving systems that support student organizations, event registration, and compliance with institutional policies.
• Build Networking and Collaborative Skills: Develop the ability to work effectively with campus partners, external organizations, and community stakeholders to advance student engagement initiatives.
• Advance Project Management Abilities: Strengthen organizational and time-management skills through the coordination of multiple, concurrent projects and initiatives.
• Refine Professional Communication: Improve oral and written communication skills through regular interactions with students, staff, faculty, and external partners.
• Receive Mentorship and Career Guidance: Benefit from one-on-one mentorship with SELD professionals, gaining insights into higher education administration, leadership development, and future career opportunities.
• Cultivate Creativity and Innovation: Explore and introduce new programming ideas, leadership development initiatives, and engagement opportunities that align with student needs and institutional goals.

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.