Graduate Assistant for Orientation Programs

Graduate Assistants are required to work a minimum of 10 hours per week. During the fall and winter semesters, work hours may not exceed 24 hours per week. During the spring and summer semesters, Graduate Assistants may work up to 40 hours per week, but no more. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Assist in the planning and execution of large-scale orientation events, including first year and transfer student orientations.  

• Establish and promote on-campus events for transfer students to encourage their academic, social, and student success under the guidance of the Coordinator of Orientation Programs and the Second Year Retention Specialist  

• Logistic coordination such as appointment scheduling, materials preparation, and on-site event support.  

• Trained in Academic Advising to support Academic Advising peak times, transfer student orientations, and first-year student advising labs.  

• Provide direct support during first-year orientation sessions.  

• Maintain accurate records and reporting of student information (FERPA)  

• Aid with office operations, including appointment scheduling and front-facing support.  

• Analyze feedback and assessment data to improve and adapt programming for future use.   

• Develop and implement communication plans targeting incoming transfer and first-year students.  

• Draft and manage email campaigns, newsletters, and digital content (e.g., website updates, social media).  

• Ensure messaging is clear, inclusive, and aligned with institutional branding and goals.  

• Respond to student and family inquiries in a prompt and professional manner.  

• Perform other duties as assigned. 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: 

General supervision is received from Coordinator of Orientation Programs.  

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor's degree in related field  

• Currently admitted to a graduate program or eligible and intending to apply upon accepting the offer. Graduate programs qualify for this position include: Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Master of Public Administration (MPA) 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills   

• Organizational skills with attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.  

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.  

• A positive attitude and enthusiasm about creating a welcoming environment for new students, focused on student success.  

• Must be able to attend all SOAR events, NODA professional and student conferences, Orientation Leader training and retreat, Fresh Start, Transfer Student Welcome event, and others.   

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn new software quickly. 

• Experience and ability to positively interact with all members of the campus community 

• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodations. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Experience with orientation programs, new student transitions, academic advising, or admissions  

• Experience in event planning and giving student employee supervision.  

• Experience working in programs like Slate, Workday, and Microsoft Office  

• Understanding of Saginaw Valley State University undergraduate degree programs  

TUITION ELIGIBILITY & TAX IMPLICATIONS:  
Graduate Assistantships include a tuition and fee waiver of up to 12 credit hours per semester (maximum 30 per academic year), funded by the SVSU central budget. 

Full-time enrollment (9 credits or more) is required in the Fall and Winter semesters, with minimal exceptions available. Less than full-time enrollment is allowed in the final semester for completion or for programs that do not offer full-time enrollment 

Per IRS regulations, tuition waivers may be considered taxable income. Amounts exceeding $5,250 annually are generally taxable and will be included in compensation. Employees should consult a tax advisor for guidance.​

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

• Duties are generally performed inside and not exposed to adverse conditions. 

• All work associated with this role must be performed within the state of Michigan. 

• This position is an on-campus position and doesn’t qualify for remote work 

The above reflects the general details considered necessary to describe the essential functions of the job. It shall not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements that may be inherent in the job.  It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under his/her supervision.  The use of a particular expression or illustration describing duties shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty.