Position Title:
Graduate Assistant for Orientation Programs
Full- or Part-Time:
Part Time
Hours:
20 hours per week
Exempt or Non-Exempt:
Non-Exempt
Department:
Orientation Programs (JM-SE)
Job Description:
Wage:
$16.00 per hour
Hours:
Scheduled hours may vary based on departmental needs and program activities.
Job Summary:
The Graduate Assistant for Orientation Programs supports the planning, implementation, and assessment of orientation initiatives. This role emphasizes program development, strategic communication, and administrative support while contributing to the execution of first-year orientation events (SOAR, Fresh Start, International SOAR, etc.) and transfer student programming.
This appointment is for a maximum of two calendar years.
Graduate Assistants are required to work a minimum of 10 hours per week. During the Fall and Winter semesters, work hours may not exceed 24 hours per week. During the Spring and Summer semesters, Graduate Assistants may work up to 40 hours per week.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
- Assist in planning and executing large-scale orientation events, including first-year and transfer student orientations.
- Establish and promote on-campus events for transfer students to encourage academic, social, and student success under the guidance of the Coordinator of Orientation Programs and the Second Year Retention Specialist.
- Coordinate logistics including appointment scheduling, materials preparation, and on-site event support.
- Receive training in Academic Advising to support peak advising periods, transfer student orientations, and first-year student advising labs.
- Provide direct support during first-year orientation sessions.
- Maintain accurate student records and reporting in compliance with FERPA requirements.
- Assist with office operations, including appointment scheduling and front-facing student support.
- Analyze feedback and assessment data to improve future programming.
- Develop and implement communication plans targeting incoming transfer and first-year students.
- Draft and manage email campaigns, newsletters, website content, and social media communications.
- Ensure communications are inclusive, clear, and aligned with university branding and goals.
- Respond to student and family inquiries in a professional and timely manner.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Supervision Received:
General supervision is received from the Coordinator of Orientation Programs.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
- Currently admitted to a graduate program or eligible and intending to apply upon accepting the position.
- Eligible graduate programs include:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Public Administration (MPA)
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Positive attitude and enthusiasm for creating a welcoming environment focused on student success.
- Must be able to attend all SOAR events, NODA professional and student conferences, Orientation Leader training and retreat, Fresh Start, Transfer Student Welcome events, and related activities.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn new software quickly.
- Experience and ability to positively interact with all members of the campus community.
- Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodations.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with orientation programs, new student transitions, academic advising, or admissions.
- Experience in event planning and supervision of student employees.
- Experience using Slate, Workday, and Microsoft Office applications.
- Understanding of Saginaw Valley State University undergraduate degree programs.
Tuition Eligibility & Tax Implications:
Graduate Assistantships include a tuition and fee waiver of up to 12 credit hours per semester (maximum of 30 credit hours per academic year), funded through the SVSU central budget.
Full-time enrollment (9 credit hours or more) is required during the Fall and Winter semesters, with limited exceptions available. Less than full-time enrollment is permitted during a student's final semester for degree completion or for programs that do not offer full-time enrollment.
Per IRS regulations, tuition waivers may be considered taxable income. Amounts exceeding $5,250 annually are generally taxable and will be included in compensation. Employees are encouraged to consult a tax advisor regarding their individual circumstances.
Working Conditions:
- Duties are generally performed indoors and are not exposed to adverse conditions.
- All work associated with this role must be performed within the State of Michigan.
- This is an on-campus position and does not qualify for remote work.
The above reflects the general details considered necessary to describe the essential functions of the position and shall not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements that may be inherent in the position. It is not intended to limit or modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under their supervision.
About SVSU:
Saginaw Valley State University is a comprehensive university with more than 100 programs of study for approximately 7,000 students. Located in Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Region, SVSU is committed to providing a supportive and empowering environment for students, faculty, and staff.
SVSU was recognized as a “Great College to Work For” for nine consecutive years (2016–2024).
SVSU emphasizes undergraduate teaching, learning, and community-based research. The university has earned the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification and is recognized nationally for student engagement and academic excellence.
SVSU continues to establish itself as a leader in STEAM education throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region and is constructing the first university research facility on Lake Huron to improve public health and strengthen the economy of the Saginaw Bay watershed.
More than 70 percent of SVSU freshmen live on campus in nationally recognized student housing. SVSU fields 20 NCAA Division II varsity sports and maintains an average class size of 23 students.
For more information, visit www.svsu.edu.
