Grad Assistant - Summer Success & First-Year Engagement Programs

Position Summary The Graduate Assistant for Summer Success and First-Year Engagement Programs supports the planning, coordination, and implementation of summer and academic-year initiatives designed to assist incoming first-year and transfer students in their transition to the university. This role plays a critical part in fostering student engagement, coordinating program logistics, and supporting communication efforts that promote persistence and student success beyond the summer experience. The Graduate Assistant will work closely with professional staff, student ambassadors, and campus partners to facilitate programming that promotes academic readiness, sustained engagement, community building, and connection to campus resources throughout the first year. Duties Responsibilities Program Coordination • Assist with the planning and coordination of Summer Success Programs for incoming first-year and transfer students. • Support the implementation of summer initiatives such as STEM academies, transition programs, and academic preparation workshops. • Assist in the development and coordination of First-Year Engagement initiatives during the academic year (e.g., welcome events, workshops, retention programming). • Coordinate program logistics including scheduling, space reservations, materials preparation, and event support across both summer and academic-year programs. Student Engagement • Assist with outreach and communication to incoming, first-year, and transfer students to promote participation in programs and services. • Support engagement initiatives designed to build community, increase belonging, and strengthen student connection to campus resources throughout the first year. • Collaborate with student ambassadors to facilitate peer engagement, mentoring, and student interaction opportunities. • Help implement strategies that support first-year retention and continued student involvement beyond initial transition programs. Communication and Outreach • Draft communications, promotional materials, and event announcements for summer and first-year engagement programs. • Maintain consistent communication with participants through email, newsletters, and program updates across the summer and academic year. • Assist with recruitment and marketing efforts to increase awareness and participation in both Summer Success and First-Year Engagement initiatives. Data Tracking and Assessment • Track program participation and maintain student engagement records across summer and first-year programs. • Assist with collecting feedback and assessment data to evaluate program effectiveness and student outcomes. • Support the preparation of reports highlighting retention, engagement, and program impact. Administrative Support • Assist with maintaining program records and documentation. • Support staff meetings, planning sessions, and program evaluations. • Provide general administrative support for summer and first-year programming initiatives. Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.