Benefits of Graduate Assistantships
GA positions provide full remission of tuition and fees (except the graduation fee) plus a stipend in exchange for working in the department approximately 20 hours/week. GAs assist faculty with research, teaching, or other work related to the department. Because of their close work with the faculty, GAs receive on-the-job mentoring and close advising to support their career goals.
The GA appointment is for one year, renewable for a second year upon satisfactory performance.
Eligibility Requirements for GA Position
TRS GA applicants must:
- Be accepted into the TRS M.A. program
- Demonstrate a minimum overall GPA of 3.0
- Have pertinent expertise and experience to fit the position requirements
The GA Application Process
After reviewing the available GA positions and job descriptions, an applicant will submit an online application, upload a statement of purpose and résumé, submit the necessary official transcripts, and request at least two letters of recommendation in support of the application. (Recommenders will upload their letters of support directly to the online system.)
In order for the GA application to be considered, the applicant must have completed the full TRS M.A. program application by February 15. All necessary M.A. program application materials — including transcripts and letters of recommendation — must be received by the February 15 deadline.
The Selection Process
Shortly after February 15, all complete GA applications will be forwarded to the department. (Note that a GA application will be reviewed only if the applicant’s program application is also complete.) As part of the selection process, interviews are normally conducted within the next three weeks, with an offer being made by about March 15.
When an offer for a graduate assistantship is made, a recommendation for appointment is submitted to the associate academic vice president. Upon approval of the appointment, a contract will be offered by the Office of the Provost and Academic Vice President. The student must sign and return the contract to complete the appointment process.
Tips for Graduate Students Seeking Assistantships
Graduate assistantships provide graduate students with opportunities to improve their skills in teaching and/or research and to offer practical experience while pursuing a graduate degree. Graduate students seeking a GA position should approach the process in the same way as applying for a job.
- Know what the department does before applying for a GA position. Check the department’s website and make sure you have the necessary skills to contribute to their work.
- Read the job description carefully, keeping in mind the fit between your knowledge, skills, and abilities, and the desired qualifications of the position.
- Customize the application materials in a way that communicates a good fit for the position.
- Ensure that your letters of recommendation address your ability to fulfill the job requirements in addition to your academic abilities.
- The contents of your application will determine whether or not you are invited for an interview.
Your statement of purpose and résumé should answer the following questions:
- How do your interests, values, and skills fit the department’s mission, values, and needs?
- How does your experience fit the content knowledge required for the position?
- What strengths would help you to succeed in this position?
- How does this position fit with your professional goals and objectives?
Please review the list of FAQs for more information.