How to Be a Graduate Assistant?

Hey, it’s Umu here, and today we’re talking about one of campus’s most sought-after roles… being a Graduate Assistant.

If you’re new to the term, a GA (Graduate Assistant) is a graduate student who works on campus while pursuing their degree. Depending on the department, your responsibilities might include research, event planning, marketing, mentoring, or administrative support. In return, most GAs receive a tuition waiver and a stipend. Pretty great deal, right? But honestly, what’s even better than the benefits is the experience. You’re not just continuing your education you’re building real-world skills, expanding your network, and growing in ways you may not expect.

Let’s rewind to where my GA journey began.

It was the fall of my senior year, and everyone kept asking the dreaded question: “So… what do you want to do after college?” Meanwhile, I was just trying to survive my weekly cycle of assignments, meetings, and late-night study sessions. The truth? I had no idea. Was I going straight into the workforce? Grad school? I always told myself that after four years, I’d graduate and move on no extra degrees, no extensions. But life, as always, had other plans.

I first learned about Graduate Assistantships from my supervisor at the Career Center. At first, I didn’t think much of it, but the more I learned, the more it felt like the perfect next step. It offered the chance to keep learning while gaining hands-on experience that aligned with my future marketing goals and the opportunity to sharpen my skills even further for post-grad life.

Now, I won’t lie… my final semester of undergrad was intense. I was taking seven classes, working two jobs, and completing an internship all at the same time. (Would I recommend it? Absolutely not.) On top of that, I was a Student Ambassador for the College of Business, worked at the Career Center, served as an RA, and even squeezed in a study abroad experience which, by the way, was a great talking point during interviews. My schedule was packed, but every role taught me something meaningful.

Being an RA taught me leadership and how to navigate different personalities. Working at the Career Center strengthened my communication and organization skills. My ambassador role helped me develop confidence and professionalism. All of those experiences combined prepared me for GA life and now I’m proud to serve as a GA for both the International Student & Scholar Office (ISSO) and Housing & Residence Life (HRL).

Here’s what I’ve learned since: everyone wants to be a GA, and understandably so. Positions are competitive, departments are selective, and applicants come from all over campus. But what sets you apart isn’t just your résumé or GPA it’s you. It’s how you present yourself, the relationships you build, and the initiative you take.

If you’re hoping to become a GA, start preparing early. Get involved on campus. Volunteer. Take on leadership roles. Connect with your professors, supervisors, and even your peers you never know who might recommend you. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.

The community I built in undergrad was unmatched. I had people vouching for me without me even being in the room. My supervisors were excited to recommend me because of the relationships and trust I had already built.

Also, don’t forget to check out Handshake.com! It’s the main hub for finding assistantships across many departments on campus. Make it part of your regular job search routine.

Becoming a GA has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my academic journey. It’s helped me grow professionally, build lifelong connections, and gain clarity about the career path I want.

So if you’re thinking about it, take the leap. You might be surprised where it takes you.

xoxoxo,

¼ grad girls — Umu