College of Education & Human Services

Graduate Assistantship Descriptions

Casa Latina Cultural Center Graduate Assistant

Overview: Casa Latina is center located within the Multicultural Center. Our mission is to provide services for all students with an intentional focus on the Latinx community. Casa Latina Cultural Center offers a holistic learning experience allowing students to develop thru education, engagement and leadership. We strive to provide educational and innovative programs that promote the awareness, understanding, and celebration of the Latinx community thru ethnic identity development, social justice, community outreach, cultural expression, social and professional networking.

Skill Development Areas: One-on-one advising, Program development, Teaching, Assessment, Research, Student organization advising, Marketing, Supervision, Presenting/Public speaking, Budgeting

Position Responsibilities:

  • Co-advise Latin American Student Organization (LASO), Tradicion Latin Dance Team, Amplify, Mariachi de Oro and Rotaract student organizations
  • Assist in the planning and implementation of programs and initiatives such as Latinx Heritage Month, Dia de los Muertos, Bring Your Own Tortilla and Calle Murray
  • Hold consistent office hours in order to provide organization and program information to students, university staff, and community members
  • Conduct outreach programs in the residence halls, classrooms, and to student organizations
  • Supervise Ambassadors (student workers) including recruitment, training, scheduling, and evaluation of staff
  • Attend weekly 1:1 meetings with the director, weekly staff meetings, and monthly MCC team meetings
  • Assist with other Casa Latina and Multicultural Center responsibilities including: program planning and publicity including flyers, press releases, and social media; resource library management; serve as liaisons with various academic departments; coordinate displays for and staffing of information tables for student activities fairs and various awareness events throughout the year; and general office assistance
  • Potential evening and weekend commitments

Work Setting: Casa Latina Cultural Center is located on the 2nd floor of the Multicultural Center directly across from the University Student Union. The center is a very dynamic and vibrant space with heavy student traffic and interaction. The graduate assistants report to the MCC director and work closely with the office administrator, events administrator, coordinator, student Ambassadors, and volunteers. We pride ourselves in working collaboratively with all areas on campus, especially our neighbors with whom we share space in the Multicultural Center building- LGBT*QA Resource Center, Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center and the Women’s Center. A shared motto amongst the four centers within the MCC is that we are each inclusively inviting and intentionally recognizing.

Division/Department Description: The Multicultural Center upholds the following pillars: Agency, Legacy, Inspiration, Activism and Solidarity.

Transitional Programs Graduate Assistant

Overview: The Center for Career Preparation and Employer Engagement supports students and alumni by empowering individuals to create and achieve their career goals through active career planning and preparation. The Career Center offers engaging programming through individual appointments, workshops, and partnerships with employers and faculty/staff members to ensure a successful transition between college and professional careers. The Office works closely with the Division of Academic Affairs, the Division of Student Services, and the Enrollment Management division to ensure a positive student experience.

Skill Development Areas: One-on-One Advising, Program Development and Implementation, Marketing & Website/Social Media, Presenting/Public Speaking and more.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Conduct career focused outreach programs, workshops and tabling events to student groups, organizations, academic classes, etc. and assess outcomes.
  • Work collaboratively across campus with various offices/departments to successfully plan and implement career focused programs and events with a focus on reaching marginalized populations.
  • Provide individual career planning assistance to students including (but not limited to) resume/cover letter development and construction, mock interviewing, job/internship searching, networking, transitioning to the workplace and graduate school essays.
  • Assist in the training and supervision of undergraduate Career Ambassadors.
  • Assist with the planning and implementation of several Career Fairs.
  • Develop marketing tools and social media campaigns to promote the Career Center.
  • Help maintain WIU’s Handshake platform and other career tools.
  • Benchmark other institutional programs/events/services related to the Career Center to generate ideas for implementation at WIU.
  • Participate in ongoing strategic planning and development of new initiatives.

Work Setting: The Center for Career Preparation and Employer Engagement is part of the Office of Retention Initiatives within the Enrollment Management Division and serves students in Macomb, the Quad Cities and Online with staff in both Macomb and Moline. Our two graduate assistants are an integral part of the team and are included in a variety of activities/events related to the successful career preparation of students. Graduate assistants will participate in weekly staff meetings and other professional development throughout the year, as well as individual meetings with the supervisor(s). We celebrate WIU casual Fridays (wear Purple), individual and team successes, and interact collaboratively in a fun, engaging atmosphere.

Overview: The student services sector plays an important role with international students who often face issues with campus housing, dining, organizations, visa, language, etc. This assistantship will provide experience for the CSP professional in recognizing that the internationalization of campus is a constant work in progress. Join our team and learn about international education, cultural diversity, and meet an interesting group of students from around the world!

Global Education and Outreach Graduate Assistant

Skill Development Areas: Program Development, Research, Marketing (Canva, Google, Adobe InDesign, etc), International Alumni Development, International Protocol, Cultural Competency Activities, International Recruitment Strategies, Professional Development by way of webinars and Student Affairs 101 presentation

Position Responsibilities:

  • Marketing strategies for international recruitment
  • Social media (Facebook, WIU website, etc.)
  • Coordination of New International Student Orientation
  • Assistance with the WIU International Bazaar - a large scale annual cultural event, International Day of Peace, and International Education Week
  • Alumni relations
  • Maintaining brand guidelines
  • Involvement with international programs and organizations

Work Setting: The office is located in Horrabin Hall 6. Graduate assistants are expected to dress professionally and have the opportunity to participate in meetings and activities across campus. Our office values every member of our team. Although we are a professional office, we also enjoy working and laughing together.

The Department host two graduate assistants positions within the CSP program -- graduate research assistant and graduate student recruitment and retention.

Graduate Research Assistant

Overview: This position provides professional level support related to research and creative activities that contribute to the teaching, research, and service responsibilities of CSP Faculty.

Skill Development Areas: Assessment, Research, Marketing, Recruitment, Grant-writing

Teaching Support

  • Collecting and preparing classroom materials for CSP courses

Research Support

  • Conducting literature reviews for faculty research projects
  • Assist in data collection and analysis
  • Manage and respond to project related emails
  • Attend regularly scheduled team meetings
  • Assist with the marketing of calls for study participants
  • Scheduling of study interviews

Professional Service Support Assist with the management of the National Clearinghouse for Commuter Programs including

    • Social media management
    • Member recruitment and maintenance
    • Assisting with grant proposals

Work Setting: The CSP office is located in Horrabin Hall. The graduate assistant will have their own workspace (desk/chair/computer) in a shared office with other CSP graduate students. CSP faculty strive to create a work environment that is reflective, supportive and with ongoing opportunities for growth.

Graduate Student Recruitment and Retention

This position is responsible for the recruitment and orientation of prospective graduate students, as well as rentention activities designed to build and enhance the CSP community. These responsibilities require graduate assistants to work closely with student affairs professionals, department colleagues, current students, prospective students, and alumni.The College Student Personnel Team is comprised of a supervisor, two graduate assistants, and is often joined by practica students.

Skill Development Areas: One-on-One Advising, Program Development and Implementation, Marketing & Outreach, Assessment, Volunteer Coordination, Public Speaking

Position Responsibilities:

          • Advise and counsel prospective students through in-person, email, online, phone, and video conversations on their exploration of the student affairs field, graduate school search, professional goals, and admission process to the WIU CSP program
          • Represent the program at on-campus and off-campus recruitment, open house, and alumni events
          • Conceptualize and implement a recruitment-oriented strategic communication plan
          • Collect and assemble applications for admission to be reviewed by program faculty
          • Plan and coordinate annual admission interview process that showcases the academic program for prospective students
          • Develop and implement orientation activities for incoming CSP graduate students
          • Design and manage the CSP digital presence including the creation of original written, video, and photographic content for the website and social media accounts
          • Plan and execute recruitment events such as Student Affairs 101, a conference for undergraduate students interested in pursuing a career in student affairs
          • Collect, analyze, and present assessment data from prospective and current students, faculty, alumni, and campus partners related to learning outcomes or goals of recruitment, orientation, professional development, and community building
          • Design and implement value-added events, activities, or resources for the CSP community such as professional development workshops, mentoring programs, webinars, and much more

Work Setting: The CSP Office is located in Horrabin Hall with the offices of the faculty, department chair, graduate assistants, and supervisor located in a suite. We value and foster an environment of professionalism, collaboration, intentionality, and professional growth.

Disability Resource Center Graduate Assistant

Overview: The Disability Resource Center (DRC) is committed to concepts of equity, social justice, and diversity embedded in the values of Western Illinois University. We promote awareness and access through training, partnerships, innovative programs, and accommodations such as textbook conversion, note taking, and exam services; faculty-DRC partnerships; Disability Culture Day; and peer mentoring.

Skill Development Areas: Program development, Program implementation, Assessment

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Coordinates all text conversion to electronic format utilizing a team of undergraduate students
  • Answers student questions related to E-Text and communicates with students

Regarding E-Text policies and procedures and completed texts

  • Assists DRC staff with developing/revising policies, improving procedures, developing staff training, and collecting data for reports
  • Assists with DRC exam services
  • Assists with office projects and events, such as Disability Culture Day, college fairs
  • Provides campus orientation for visually impaired students

Work Setting: As a graduate assistant in the DRC, you join a team of three full-time staff members and six graduate and 4 undergraduate assistants. The graduate assistants focus on three key areas – exam services, electronic text conversion, and note-taking services. The E-text coordinator position is a technology-related position, and preference is given to candidates with technological aptitude and experience. Please complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the upcoming school year prior to interviewing as these graduate assistant positions are funded through federal work-study.

Equal Opportunity and Access Graduate Assistant

Overview: The Equal Opportunity & Access office ensures that University policies and programs are in compliance with federal and state regulatory agencies, including Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR), Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and the Office of Civil Rights (OCR). The University's Anti-Harassment Policy is administered by the Office. The director of Equal Opportunity & Access is also the Campus Compliance Coordinator for the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Title IX Coordinator for the university. This includes monitoring and assisting academic and professional areas with personnel recruitment, hiring and other employment practices.

Skill Development Areas: Program Development, Assessment, Research, Presenting/Public Speaking

Position Responsibilities:

  • Plan programs in coordinator with other resources on campus such as the Multicultural Center and the Office of Student Activities.
  • Plan, facilitate and coordinate the Peer Educator Group.
  • Research best practices regarding peer educator groups.
  • Research grants applicable to peer educator groups.
  • Assist in the planning of a campus sexual assault prevention task force.
  • Represent the Center at campus resource fairs and events.
  • Compile assessment tools to assist in strategic planning.
  • Develop and preserve a resource library.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Work Setting: This is a full-time graduate assistantship (20 hours) reporting to the Director of The Office of Equal Opportunity and Access. The position may require limited evening and weekend hours. One-on-ones will be held weekly. Preference will be given to students that show great interest in inclusion and Title IX issues. It should be noted that students who show an interest in making difficult topics fun is a plus! And we love music. And coffee.

Overview: The First-Year Advising Office provides academic advising for University Advising (UA) students who have not yet declared a major, the Reach program which is an alternative admission program, and First-Year students pursuing specific degrees. Graduate Assistant Academic Advisor support these efforts by serving as an academic advisor for 10 to 20 students. Other duties that support the mission and function of the office may also be assigned.

Academic Advising Graduate Assistantship

Skill Development Areas: One-on-One Advising, Program Development/Implementation, Public Speaking and Presentations, Small Group Advising, Marketing

Position Responsibilities:

  • Provide individual advisement to undergraduate students for the selection of courses appropriate to students' academic profile, chosen major, career interests and catalog curriculum requirements at registration programs and throughout each semester until the student is released to the advisor within their academic major
  • Maintain a high level of awareness of university-wide advising topics, especially program offerings, regulations, and academic requirements
  • Participate in professional development activities including staff meetings, training sessions, webinars, in-services, and individual research of at-risk student retention and advising models (proactive, appreciative, developmental)
  • Assist with new student registration programs and university-wide “Discover Western” campus visit days
  • Create new marketing materials for the advising services
  • Collaborate with other campus offices including University Housing, Center for Career Preparation, Undergraduate Admissions, and Student Development and Success Center to assist in the development and implementation of advising initiatives

Work Setting: First-Year Advising is housed within Memorial Hall, an academic building near the center of campus. The atmosphere is collegial, with everyone working together to support students. The staff includes a director, four full-time advisors, and two graduate assistants.Work hours are flexible to accommodate both academic advising appointments during the day and outreach initiatives in the evenings.

Gwendolyn Brooks Memorial Center Graduate Assistant

Overview: Part of the Multicultural Center, the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center (GBCC) provides ongoing cultural experiences, academic enhancement opportunities, and social programs designed to support the adjustment and academic success of African American students at Western Illinois University.

Skill Development Areas: One-on-One Advising, Program Development, Teaching, Assessment, Research, Student Organization Advising, Marketing, Supervision, Presenting/Public Speaking, Budgeting

Position Responsibilities:

  • Co-advise the African Student Association, Black Male Achievement Network, Black Student Association, Black Student Summit, Cultural Expressions, Christian Faith Campus Ministry, Heritage Ensemble, Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center Dance Troupe, and National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and the Collegiate Chapter student organizations
  • Coordinate the planning and implementation of at least two major programs, including: the annual Kwanzaa Dinner, Feel Good Fridays, the GBCC Graduation Celebration and Black History Month programs and activities
  • Conduct outreach programs in the residence halls, classrooms, and to student organizations
  • Supervise Ambassadors (student workers) including recruitment, training, scheduling, and evaluation of staff
  • Assist with other GBCC and Multicultural Center responsibilities including: program planning and publicity including flyers, press releases, and social media; resource library management; serve as liaisons with various academic departments; coordinate displays for and staffing of information tables for student activities fairs and various awareness events throughout the year; and general office assistance
  • Attend weekly 1:1 meetings with the MCC director, weekly WC staff meetings, and monthly MCC team meetings
  • Potential evening and weekend commitments

Work Setting: The Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center is located on the 2nd floor of the Multicultural Center. The graduate assistants report to the MCC director and work closely with the office administrator, events administrator, coordinator, student Ambassadors, and volunteers. GBCC staff also work closely with staff and students from the LGBT*QA Resource Center, Casa Latina Cultural Center and the Women’s Center. A shared motto amongst the four centers within the MCC is that we are each inclusively inviting and intentionally recognizing.

Division/Department Description:

The Multicultural Center upholds the following pillars: Agency, Legacy, Inspiration, Activism and Solidarity.

Health Education Graduate Assistant

Overview: Health Education is a functional area of the Student Development and Success Center (SDSC). The intent of Health Education is to enhance the educational process of WIU students in the area of health and wellness education through outreach activities and programs.

Skill Development Areas: Student Organization Advising and One-on-One Advising, Program Development and Implementation, Presenting/Public Speaking, Assessment, Supervision

Position Responsibilities:

  • Advise the peer education group which includes one on one meetings with peer educators and end of semester evaluations

  • Plan, coordinate and conduct health awareness events and programs on a variety of topics in residence halls, Greek organizations and academic classes

  • Coordinate education programming requests

  • Co-plan and facilitate Peer Education Training (skill development: listening, responding and referral, intervention, presentation, taking care of self, peer education inclusiveness, group development, role modeling and ethics)

  • Work as a team member of the Student Development and Success Center

  • Work collaboratively with various offices and departments across campus

Work Setting: Student Development and Success Center has four functional areas including Disability Resources, Health Education, Student Development and Student Rights and Responsibilities. We offer a student focused approach with both the students we serve and our graduate assistants.Graduate assistants will participate in weekly staff meetings and individual meetings with the supervisor(s), as well as professional development throughout the year.

LGBTQA Rescource Center Graduate Assistant

Overview: The LGBT*QA Resource Center is located in the Multicultural Center and opened its doors in August 2011. Since then, the Center has helped WIU’s campus reach 4.5 out of 5.0 stars ranking from the LGBT-Friendly Campus Climax. The LGBT*QA Resource Center is a space for students to become visible and form connections with the Queer community at WIU and in Macomb.

Skill Development Areas: One-on-one advising, Program Development, Teaching, Assessment, Research, Student Organi

Position Responsibilities:

  • Provide daily maintenance of the center including: marketing the center, responding to e-mails and phone calls, developing and preserving the resource library, providing support and referrals for visitors to the center, and restocking resources (brochures, pamphlets, and flyers,) as necessary
  • Co-advise Unity student organization
  • Plan programs and lead committees for events, such as The Big Picture Picnic, Camp OUT, Trans* Day of Remembrance, Drag Shows, Pride Week and Lavender Graduation
  • Facilitate and coordinate Safe-Zone training (Macomb & Quad Cities Campuses) and the Queer book club
  • Assist with other LGBT*QA Resource Center and Multicultural Center responsibilities including: program planning and publicity including flyers, press releases, and social media; resource library management; serve as liaisons with various academic departments; coordinate displays for and staffing of information tables for student activities fairs and various awareness events throughout the year; and general office assistance
  • Conduct outreach programs in the residence halls, classrooms, and to student organizations
  • Supervise Ambassadors (student workers) including recruitment, training, scheduling, and evaluation of staff
  • Attend weekly 1:1 meetings with the MCC director, weekly Center staff meetings, and monthly MCC team meetings
  • Potential evening and weekend commitments

Work Setting: The LGBT*QA Resource Center is located on the 2nd floor of the Multicultural Center. The graduate assistants report to the MCC director and work closely with the office administrator, events administrator, coordinator, student Ambassadors, and volunteers. LGBT*QA Resource Center staff also work closely with staff and students from the Women’s Center, the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center and the Casa Latina Cultural Center. A shared motto amongst the four centers within the MCC is that we are each inclusively inviting and intentionally recognizing.

Preference will be given to students that show great interest in social justice issues and the wellbeing of LGBT*QA individuals. Previous involvement with the LGBTQA community or working with students of diverse educational, racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds is a plus.

Division/Department Description: The Multicultural Center upholds the following pillars: Agency, Legacy, Inspiration, Activism and Solidarity.

Overview: Our mission is to serve all students with an intentional focus on traditionally underserved communities. The Multicultural Center offers a holistic learning experience allowing students to develop through education, engagement and leadership. We provide educational and innovative programs that promote the awareness, understanding, and celebration of our diverse community. We strive to instill agency through social justice, community outreach, academic success, and cultural expression.

Work Setting: The graduate assistants report to the MCC director and work closely with the office administrator, events administrator, coordinator, student Ambassadors, and volunteers. In addition, the graduate assistants also work closely with staff and students from the LGBT*QA Resource Center, the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center, Women’s Center and the Casa Latina Cultural Center. A shared motto amongst the four centers within the MCC is that we are each inclusively inviting and intentionally recognizing.

Division/Department Description: The Multicultural Center upholds the following pillars: Agency, Legacy, Inspiration, Activism and Solidarity.

Multicultural Center: Operations

Skill Development Areas: One-on-one advising, Assessment, Research, Supervision, Presenting/Public Speaking, Budgeting

Position Responsibilities:

  • Assist with the Ambassador Program (student workers) including recruitment, training, scheduling, and data collection;
  • Assist with operation responsibilities including: MCC email accounts; office support, space operations; resource library management;
  • Monitor the MCC brand, advertising, communications and enhance the creative vision;
  • Conduct outreach programs in the residence halls, classrooms, and student organizations; coordinate displays for and staffing of information tables for student activities fairs and various awareness events throughout the year;
  • Assist with marketing responsibilities including: publicity, creation of printed materials (flyers, brochures, iconography), photography and video content, press releases, and social media;
  • Maintain, design and enhance MCC Website design content;
  • Attend weekly 1:1 meetings with the MCC director, weekly MCC staff meetings, and monthly MCC team meetings.
Financial Aid Graduate Assistant

Overview: The Office of Financial Aid has two functional areas that will require the assistance of a Graduate Assistant. One position will assist with the Financial Literacy programming at WIU, while the other will assist with retention and persistence efforts through the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).

Skill Development Areas: Program Development and Management, Peer Mentoring, Support Services (i.e. reports and programs), Collecting and/or Analyzing Data, Front-Line Student Support

Financial Literacy and Outreach Graduate Assistantship

Position Responsibilities:

  • Develop and implement financial aid presentations for group of prospective and current students
  • Program and implement financial literacy programs for all students to understand their finances
  • Create all marketing materials for events and announcements to post on campus and social media
  • Operate all office social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat)
  • Develop and implement a marketing campaign for the October 1st FAFSA file date
  • Serve as walk-in advisor and as on call advisor every day
  • Provide information for prospective students and families during admissions events
  • Process and analyze financial aid reports
  • Assessment of the financial aid office and of the financial literacy program
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Graduate Assistantship
  • Process and analyze financial aid reports
  • Assessment of the financial aid office and of SAP program
  • Create marketing materials for outreach reminding students to keep their grades in mind for financial aid purposes
  • Serve as an initial responder for college financing questions
  • Advise academically at-risk students using Federal satisfactory academic progress standards to ensure federal aid for future semesters
  • Assess student accounts for financial accuracy Analyze reports from financial aid advisors
  • Provide information for prospective students and families during admissions events

Work Setting: The Office of Financial Aid is a very large office with around 20 employees with different specialties. We work closely together with one another as a team to help students through the entire financial aid process. As a graduate assistant, you would attend weekly staff meetings and be expected to contribute to the efforts of the entire office. We maintain a professional, flexible, and supportive office environment. We also LOVE food days!

Overview: The Office of Student Engagement (OSE) provides students with practical, educational, and leadership opportunities that complement the academic experience and foster a sense of belonging. We provide support, knowledge, and resources to both individual students and student organizations while assisting in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of social, cultural, educational, and service programs. Involvement in the Office of Student Engagement enriches the student experience at Western Illinois University.

Work Setting: The Office of Student Engagement (OSE) is a large, interactive office with 10 full time and graduate staff in addition to several student workers. Graduate assistants are an integral part of the staff and are included regularly in a variety of activities and events such as Rocky After Dark: First Night, Family Day, Homecoming, and Discover Western visits. We celebrate birthdays and other special occasions and welcome lively discussions on current trends/events at the table in the middle of the office. We believe you should enjoy your work and have fun!

Fraternity & Sorority Life Graduate Assistant

The Fraternity & Sorority Life Graduate Assistant works directly with the Coordinator of Fraternity & Sorority Life in advising and developing the Fraternity/Sorority Community. Visit ​wiu.edu/fsl​ for more information.

Skill Development Areas: One-on-One Advising, Program Development and Implementation, Student Organization Advising, Risk Management, Navigating Complexity Collaborating with Stakeholders Driving Vision and Purpose

Position Responsibilities:

  • Serve as the Graduate Advisor to one of the three Greek governing councils (Interfraternity, Panhellenic, or United Greek) including the oversight of the executive board, budget, recruitment, and programming.
  • Provide a mentoring relationship that assists with the development of student leaders
  • Serve as the primary advisor to two to three Greek committees or Ad Hoc groups: Accreditation/Assessment, Fraternity & Sorority Life Accountability Board, Greek Week, Greek Gazette, Order of Omega, Rho Lambda, Risk Management (RMC), Event Notification, Social Media, or Special Programs.
  • Assist the Coordinator in all areas of new member recruitment.
  • Assist the Coordinator with needs assessment process for chapters, councils, and community.
  • Assist, develop and provide leadership for programmatic initiatives related to Fraternity & Sorority Life, including but not limited to such areas as risk management, intellectual development, officer training, membership development, membership recruitment, community development, and diversity.
  • Assist with the coordination of recruitment, FSL 101, Leadership Retreats,, FSL Awards Ceremony, and other community-wide sponsored events
  • Serve as a resource and liaison for advisors, National Offices, campus, and community.
  • Coordinate educational programs for the FSL and WIU community.

Secondary Responsibilities:

  • Maintain 20 office hours per week
  • Meet weekly with Council President, attend Executive Board and General Assembly meetings
  • Meet weekly with the Fraternity & Sorority Life Coordinator
  • Attend weekly FSL Unit and bi-weekly OSE staff meetings
  • Provide support to other areas within Student Activities (Leadership Programs, Volunteer Programs, Student Government Association, and UUB)
  • Prepare weekly and annual written reports
  • Serve as a representative of the Office of Student Engagement on University-wide committees
  • Serve on OSE committees
  • Attend council functions and programs as appropriate
  • Other duties as assigned by the FSL Coordinator or OSE Director

Leadership Programs Graduate Assistant

Grounded in the Social Change Model of Leadership Development, the overarching goal of the leadership programs unit within the OSE is to prepare leaders who will have a positive impact in a global society. Visit​ our website​ for more information.

Skill Development Areas: One-on-One advising, Program Development & Implementation, Student Organization Advising, Marketing, Collaborating with Stakeholders, Driving Vision and Purpose

Primary Responsibilities:

Leadership Development

  • Assist the Director of Student Engagement with the evaluation of current leadership programs and discuss new programs to implement on campus. Serve as a resource for students interested in leadership
  • Advise, develop, and implement Fall Leadership Conference including but not limited to advising student leaders, conducting weekly meetings, overseeing social media and marketing, budgets and overall campus outreach
  • Plan, implement and evaluate LEAD Series Workshops on a semester basis.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders and campus partners to develop engaging programs and resource lists for students
  • Assist the Director of Student Engagement in the overall implementation of the semi-annual student organization fair
  • Evaluate for-credit RPTA 490 Leadership Course and create strategic plan to facilitate future courses
  • Provide on-going training and development opportunities and develop/disseminate educational resources for Registered Student Organizations and Advisors

Student Organizations

    • Manage the online student organization database, Purple Post, and maintain student leadership & advisor records
    • Create, develop, and maintain training for usage of Purplepost for student organizations
    • Assist the Director of Student Engagement in collaboration with the Scheduling and Event Service Office in event management policies for student organizations.
    • Oversee the annual student organization registration process
    • Assist the Director of Student Engagement in the advisement of the Student Government Association
    • Create, develop, and manage student organization presidents’ meetings and organization officer transition process
    • Assist the Director of Student Engagement in the overall implementation of the semi-annual student organization fair
    • Manage and maintain the Student Organization & Advisor Policy Manual
    • Provide on-going training and development opportunities and develop/disseminate educational resources for Registered Student Organizations and Advisors

Secondary Responsibilities:

        • Maintain 20 office hours per week
        • Meet weekly One-on-One meetings with the OSE Director of Student Engagement
        • Provide support to other areas within Student Engagement (Programming, UUB, Volunteer Programs, Student Government Association, and Fraternity & Sorority Life)
        • Prepare weekly and annual written reports
        • Serve as a representative of the Office of Student Engagement on University-wide committees
        • Serve on OSE committees
        • Other duties as assigned by the FSL Coordinator or OSE Director
        • Attend bi-weekly OSE staff meetings

Programming Graduate Assistant

The Programming Graduate Assistant works directly with the Director of Student Engagement in advising the University Union Board (UUB) Executive Board officers, chairs, and committees through 1:1 meetings, weekly group meetings, and retreats in addition to large campus-wide programming such as Rocky After Dark, Family Day, and Homecoming. Visit​ our website​ for more information.

Skill Development Areas: One-on-One Advising, Program Development & Implementation, Student Organization Advising, Navigating Complexity, Collaborating with Stakeholders, Driving Vision and Purpose

Primary Responsibilities:

          • To serve as an advisor and mentor to assigned committee chairs and executive board members during weekly one-on-one and committee meetings
          • To facilitate, inspire, or direct leadership development opportunities for all members of the board during weekly meetings, including planning two retreats per year
          • To attend all required UUB programs and meetings with the co-graduate assistant, the Executive Board, and the Activities Board. Other meetings and activities beyond direct assignments as well as off-campus conferences may be determined to be necessary and are available
          • To serve as a co-advisor for the Homecoming Committee with Practicum student.
          • To provide assistance and guidance in matters of the constitution and budget
          • To provide direction for weekly group meetings, retreats, and conference participation
          • To inspire programming that meets the needs of the entire campus population through intentional collaborations with diverse campus groups
          • To assist each assigned chair in working with agents, road managers, artists, and/or vendors and in fulfilling contract responsibilities during the production of a program
          • To assist each assigned chair in the management of all details of each program to include reservations, paperwork, day of schedules, and budget tracking
          • To assist with all areas of public relations. This includes publicity and promotions for all UUB programs as well as recruitment of committee members
          • To maintain a calendar of events for UUB that collates all of the committees’ programs and includes important campus-wide initiatives
          • To reserve programming spaces and meeting spaces to meet the need for long-range planning.
          • Assist the OSE in large-scale campus-wide programming

Secondary Responsibilities:

      • Maintain 20 office hours per week
      • Assist with the management social media outlets for UUB to include Purple Post, Facebook, Instagram, Tik-Tok, and Twitter.
      • Meet weekly as a Programming Unit and 1:1 with the OSE Director of Student Engagement
      • Provide support to other areas within Student Engagement (Leadership Programs, Volunteer Programs, Student Government Association, and Fraternity & Sorority Life)
      • Prepare weekly and annual written reports
      • Serve as a representative of the Office of Student Engagement on University-wide committees
      • Serve on OSE committees
      • Other duties as assigned by the OSE Director
      • Attend bi-weekly OSE staff meetings
Student Rights and Responsibilities Graduate Assistant

Overview: Graduate Assistants (GA) in the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities gain knowledge about student conduct processes and assist in the administration of and educating others about the Code of Student Conduct and Western Illinois University conduct system. The GA will demonstrate understanding and competency through adjudication of disciplinary conferences, creation and facilitation of educational programs, training of members of the University Hearing Board, and effective utilization of case management software.

Skill Development Areas: Effective communication; program development and implementation, critical thinking and decision-making; and administrative task organization and completion

Position Responsibilities:

  • Meets with students to determine responsibility and appropriate sanctions pursuant of the Code of Student Conduct
  • Maintains student conduct records, Maxient database, and compiles data and reports associated with the conduct process
  • Serves as facilitator of decision-making sessions and coordinates additional educational sanction classes, programs, and initiatives
  • Assists with recruitment, selection, training and recognition of conduct board members
  • Serve as a resource to University community members regarding student conduct policies and practices as well as campus resources

Work Setting: The Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities is located on the east side of the west of Seal Hall with University Housing & Dining Services. The GA will share an office with practicum students and a hearing officer if applicable. The GA will participate in weekly supervision and department meetings. The office culture is one that openly embraces dialogue, collaboration, and humor!

Transitions and Academic Skills Center

Overview: The Transition and Academic Skills Center provides various services and areas of support that assist students toward a successful transition into the Western Illinois University community. Services include Orientation (known as Leatherneck Launch) during the Fall, Spring and Summer which is designed to introduce new students to Western; Camp Leatherneck, an interactive program for new students based on the tenets of Leadership, Service and Community; Academic Success Coaching, which focuses on providing developmental coaching to students who want to increase their academic standing within the university; and Rocky’s Resources which provide support and academic skill development to all students through tutoring and academic success workshops. Graduate assistants have focused areas of responsibility but also assist in other office initiatives.

Skill Development Areas:

  • One-on-one or small group presentations
  • Program Development & Implementation
  • Data Collection and Analysis
  • Assessment & Evaluation
  • Marketing (social media, video)
  • Leadership Skill Development
  • Student Leader Training & Implementation

General Responsibilities could include:

  • Collect and analyze data regarding first-year students and implement academic support services based upon need; report data on a regular basis
  • Assist students in making academic progress and utilizing campus resources
  • Implement academic resources through a variety of modalities based upon current environment (virtual, hybrid, face-to-face)
  • Assess student needs for future program/service implementation
  • Facilitate implementation of tutoring resources to students (involves some evenings)
  • Actively participate in all office initiatives as needed especially during new student registration/orientation/welcome weeks
  • Collaborate with office staff on implementation and development of key office initiatives including Camp Leatherneck and Leatherneck Launch
  • Maintain a high level of awareness regarding potential programs/services to assist with student retention
  • Benchmark effective initiatives across campus or outside institution for potential implementation
  • Serve as a resource person to students for information about academic services
  • Regularly collaborate with other colleagues, campus offices to implement programs/services
  • Create new and/or identify existing workshops that provide students with skills to assist them in their successful transition to college
  • Collaborate with key academic departments to provide tutoring to students (virtual or in person)
  • Collaborate with key academic departments to provide tutoring to students (virtual or in person)
  • Recruit, train and manage student staff for a variety of office events
  • Possess a basic understanding of how to utilize Zoom, Google Meet, or other identified video/audio conferencing platform
  • Manage area website(s) and social media platforms related to office
  • Complete other tasks as assigned by Director of the Transition and Academic Skills Center

Work Setting:The Transition and Academic Skills Center was recently created by combining other areas on campus. The office is part of the Enrollment Management Division. All offices are located on the lower level of Memorial Hall. The environment is fun, engaging, and collaborative, with opportunities to work independently and with other colleagues to help students be successful. Supervisor(s) will provide an opportunity for staff to grow and develop both personally and professionally. Suggestions and new ideas are welcome. The staff includes a director, two full time academic success coaches, and four graduate assistants. Offices are open from 8:00am-4:30pm however, hours are flexible to accommodate student needs and potential evening hours.

Undergraduate Admissions Graduate Assistantships

Overview: Graduate Assistants in Undergraduate Admissions participate in weekday and Saturday admissions presentations where they will counsel prospective students and their families, including large group visits and admitted student visit presentations. These dates are determined at the beginning of each semester. GAs will also have the opportunity to potentially travel to admissions recruitment events off-campus. GAs assist with our large recruitment events, including Discover Western open houses and Experience Western overnight programs. These dates are schedule at the beginning of the academic year and include some Saturdays. Beyond that, GAs will have a focus for more specialized work in one of the specific areas listed below.

Work Setting: Undergraduate Admissions is a large office with several staff members and functional areas. In total, we have over 30 staff members under our umbrella. Everyone works together to guide prospective students through the admissions process. GAs will participate in weekly staff meetings and other professional development throughout the year, as well as individual meetings with their supervisor.

Division/Department Description: Starting in January 2020, Undergraduate Admissions is now housed in Enrollment Management. This is a new division at WIU and the culture will be developed in the coming years.

---

Admissions Ambassadors Graduate Assistants

Position Responsibilities:

  • Supervise Admissions Ambassadors team, consisting of approximately 16 undergraduate students
  • Design and conduct semesterly training programs and weekly staff meetings
  • Coordinate Admissions Ambassadors weekly campus tours, assignments for major events, and group visits
  • Recruit, hire, and train new Admissions Ambassadors each semester
  • Maintain $30,000 Admissions Ambassadors annual budget
  • Oversee telecounseling efforts for Undergraduate Admissions
  • Assist with all major Undergraduate Admissions events
  • Serve as primary admissions counselor for one shift per week and two Saturdays per semester

Skill Development Areas:

  • Program development
  • Student organization advising
  • Supervision
  • Presenting/Public speaking

---

Campus Events Graduate Assistant

Position Responsibilities:

  • Assist in development and implementation of campus open house events
  • Develop and implement Experience Western overnight visit program
  • Assist in implementing regional admissions fair
  • Assist in development and implementation of other Undergraduate Admissions events
  • Recruit, train and manage student volunteers for campus events
  • Work collaboratively across campus for open house events
  • Serve as primary admissions counselor for one shift per week and two Saturdays per semester

Skill Development Areas:

  • Program development
  • Marketing
  • Research
  • Presenting/Public Speaking

Assistant Complex Director

Overview: The Assistant Complex Director (ACD) position is a live-in assistantship in the operation of a traditional residence hall program, involving areas of student development and administrative responsibilities. As an assistant to the full-time Complex Director, the ACD position provides opportunities to learn and develop the expertise and skills needed to function effectively in a residence hall environment, a student services division, or any similar organization.

Skill Development Areas: Crisis Management, Program Development/Implantation, Student Organization Advising, Supervision, Administration

Position Responsibilities:

  • Supervision of Resident Assistants (RAs), selection and training of staff, program development, duty and crisis response, student conduct, administrative tasks, student advising and counseling
  • Opportunities are also available in departmental and campus committee work, RA course instruction and special interest projects

Work Setting: The department holds weekly staff meetings, as well as professional development opportunities. We expect graduate assistants to dress and act as a professional-in-training. Our graduate assistants are a critical part of our team. This assistantship requires students to often be placed in a high stress environment with a large amount of day-to-day responsibilities and in exchange, the ACD benefits from a substantive professional experience. We look for staff who are dedicated, work hard, support and put students first, and can have a good time on our team. Due to the workload and intensity of this position, we look for candidates with previous residential life experiences or a clear understanding of the expectations of a live-in housing position.

Women’s Center Graduate Assistant

Overview: Part of the Multicultural Center, the current mission of the Women’s Center is “to promote gender equity through education, support and advocacy, and to respond to issues affecting the status of female students, faculty, and staff.” The Graduate Assistants are an integral part of the Women’s Center team and, along with the MCC director, will provide significant leadership to implement our mission.

Skill Development Areas: One-on-One Advising, Program Development, Teaching, Assessment, Research, Student Organization Advising, Marketing, Supervision, Presenting/Public Speaking, Budgeting

Position Responsibilities:

  • Co-advise the Beyond Beautiful, Campus Girl Scouts, Diamond Dolls Dance Troupe, Feminist Action Alliance, and The Good Girl Movement student organizations
  • Coordinate the planning and implementation of at least two major programs, including: the annual Take Back the Night march and rally, National Love Your Body Day, Start Smart Workshop and book club, the Vagina Monologues, Women's History Month programs and activities
  • Conduct outreach programs in the residence halls, classrooms, and to student organizations
  • Supervise Ambassadors (student workers) including recruitment, training, scheduling, and evaluation of staff
  • Assist with other Women’s Center and Multicultural Center responsibilities including: program planning and publicity including flyers, press releases, and social media; resource library management; serve as liaisons with various academic departments; coordinate displays for and staffing of information tables for student activities fairs and various awareness events throughout the year; and general office assistance
  • Attend weekly 1:1 meetings with the MCC director, weekly WC staff meetings, and monthly MCC team meetings
  • Potential evening and weekend commitments

Work Setting: The Women’s Center is located on the 2nd floor of the Multicultural Center. The graduate assistants report to the MCC director and work closely with the office administrator, events administrator, coordinator, student Ambassadors, and volunteers. Women's Center staff also work closely with staff and students from the LGBT*QA Resource Center, the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center and the Casa Latina Cultural Center. A shared motto amongst the four centers within the MCC is that we are each inclusively inviting and intentionally recognizing.

Divison/Department Description:

The Multicultural Center upholds the following pillars: Agency, Legacy, Inspiration, Activism and Solidarity.