Graduate Assistant - Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program - Summer 2026

The term Graduate Assistant is the umbrella term that encompasses all types of GA appointments. Graduate Assistants are employed by the University to teach, conduct research, or assist with administrative duties in departments and non-academic units. Every attempt is made to assign Graduate Assistants to positions that are directly related to the student's field of study or that provide the opportunity to develop transferable, professional skills. Graduate Assistantships are assigned in the department or unit and confirmed by the Graduate School.

Academic Year: Summer 2026

Department/Office Mission
The Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program is a federally funded TRIO program designed to prepare high-achieving, first-generation, low-income, and/or underrepresented students for doctoral study. The program supports scholars through faculty-mentored research experiences, academic enrichment, graduate school preparation, and professional development with the goal of increasing the attainment of PhDs among historically underrepresented populations.

Position Overview
The McNair Graduate Assistant (GA) supports the mission and goals of the Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program by assisting with scholar development, research programming, graduate school preparation, and administrative operations. The GA serves as an integral member of the McNair professional staff and contributes to the planning, coordination, and assessment of program activities. This role includes mentoring scholars, supporting research and graduate application processes, and assisting with data tracking and reporting requirements.

Essential Functions
Scholar Support & Mentorship
* Provide mentorship and holistic support to McNair Scholars, with a focus on graduate school readiness and academic persistence
* Meet with scholars individually or in small groups to support non-cognitive skill development, time management, academic planning, and professional identity formation
* Confer regularly with McNair staff regarding scholars' academic progress and overall well-being

Research & Graduate School Preparation
* Assist scholars with identifying graduate programs, researching faculty mentors, and understanding graduate admissions processes
* Support scholars with application materials, including CVs, personal statements, statements of purpose, and fellowship applications
* Assist with preparation for graduate entrance exams (e.g., GRE) and identification of preparation resources
* Support the coordination of faculty-mentored research activities and summer research components

Programming & Events
* Assist with the development, implementation, and assessment of McNair programming, including workshops, seminars, and cohort meetings
* Support logistics for research presentations, symposiums, conferences, and campus or off-campus enrichment activities
* Assist with recruitment and selection activities for prospective McNair Scholars

Administrative & Data Support
* Capture and document scholar participation, advising sessions, and program activities using Blumen or other required tracking systems
* Assist with data entry, maintenance of scholar records, and compliance with federal reporting requirements
* Provide general administrative support, including preparation of materials, correspondence, and front-desk assistance as needed
* Address confidential matters appropriately and elevate concerns to the Director as required

Professional Development & Collaboration
* Attend McNair staff meetings and relevant TRIO or graduate preparation professional development opportunities
* Collaborate with campus partners, faculty mentors, and graduate school representatives as appropriate
* Complete other program-related projects as assigned by the McNair Director

Summer Stipend - $5,000
Term - 5/13/2026 to 7/31/2026

To be eligible for appointments as a graduate assistant, you must:
* Maintain academic good standing at all times (3.0).
* Be enrolled full-time, which is generally a minimum of 9 credits.
* Make satisfactory progress toward your degree as defined by your academic program and the Graduate School.
* Meet the requirements to be eligible for employment in the U.S.