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What does a Graduate Assistant do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A graduate assistant is a student who is enrolled in a graduate program at a university and who also works part-time, usually 20 hours per week, in order to earn money to help pay for their education. Graduate assistantships are usually awarded by the department in which the student will be studying and are based on academic merit. The duties of a graduate assistant can vary depending on the department in which they work, but they typically involve assisting professors with research, teaching classes, or grading papers.

Graduate Assistant job duties include:

  • Assists the department in planning and executing events.
  • Assists with the development and implementation of departmental initiatives.
  • Participates in departmental meetings and provides input on various topics.
  • Conducts research on various topics as assigned.
  • Compiles data and assists with the preparation of reports.
  • Maintains departmental files and records.
  • Assists with the development and implementation of marketing plans.
  • Prepares correspondence as needed.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Graduate Assistant Job Requirements

A graduate assistant is an individual who assists a professor with research and grading. Graduate assistants typically possess a bachelor’s degree, although some jobs may require a master’s degree or higher. Many graduate assistants are working towards their own degree and use the position as a way to gain experience in their field. Some schools require certification, such as teaching certification, while others do not. Experience is not always required, but it can be helpful.

Graduate Assistant Skills

  • Communication
  • Organization
  • Time management
  • Research
  • Writing
  • Critical thinking
  • Teaching
  • Public speaking
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Teamwork
  • Problem solving

Related: Top Graduate Assistant Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Graduate Assistant

A graduate assistant is a student who is enrolled in a graduate program and who also serves as a teaching or research assistant. Graduate assistantships are typically awarded to students based on their academic merit and/or financial need. To become a graduate assistant, students must first be accepted into a graduate program at a college or university. Once they have been accepted, they can then apply for an assistantship.

There are many benefits to being a graduate assistant. For one, it can help offset the cost of tuition and other expenses associated with attending graduate school. Additionally, it can provide valuable experience in teaching or research, which can be helpful when applying for jobs after graduation. Finally, it can be a great way to meet other students and faculty members within your field of study.

If you are interested in becoming a graduate assistant, the first step is to research the requirements at your school of choice. Some schools may require that you have already completed some coursework before applying for an assistantship, while others may not have any specific requirements. Once you know what is required, you can begin the application process. This will likely involve filling out an online form and submitting your resume and transcripts. In some cases, you may also need to write a personal statement or essay explaining your interest in the position and why you would be a good fit.

Once you have submitted your application materials, it will be up to the individual school to decide whether or not to award you an assistantship. If you are offered an assistantship, congratulations! You are on your way to becoming a Graduate Assistant.

Related: Graduate Assistant Resume Example

Related: Graduate Assistant Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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