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Graduate Assistantship Opportunities

Section - Graduate School

GAA, GTA and GRA positions

The College of Education and Human Sciences at South Dakota State University is seeking a qualified graduate student research assistant for SPRING 2024 Semester to help with ongoing research on young children’s Environmental Identity Development funded by the National Science Foundation.

Qualified applicants should enjoy working with children and should have a background or a strong interest in: 

  • Child development theory, early childhood/ elementary education, environmental education, environmental psychology or closely related fields. • Working with people from Indigenous and diverse cultural backgrounds.
  • Quantitative and qualitative social science research approaches • Participatory research methods with and by children.
  • Survey research and statistical analysis
  • Developing a research expertise in children’s Environmental Identity Development Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong organization and written and oral communication skills. The successful applicant will be expected to work collaboratively and independently to meet project goals and exercise creativity and flexibility in developing an expertise in the research subject matter.

Interested applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree and be pursuing or interested in pursuing a Masters or Ph.D. degree at South Dakota State University. This 20-hour per week position provides tuition and a stipend. Position will begin January 8, 2024. 

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter explaining their qualifications and interest in the position, a resume, and the names and contact information of three references to carie.green@sdstate.edu. Review of applicants will begin immediately and will be open until filled.

Job Description

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate graduate student to join our Office of Multicultural Affairs & Accessibility team as a Graduate Assistant specializing in supporting autistic students. This part-time graduate student assistantship offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the success and wellbeing of students who identify as autistic while gaining valuable experience in the field of education and student support.

Responsibilities:

1. Individualized Coaching. Provide one-on-one coaching sessions tailored to the unique needs of participating autistic students. Focus on developing effective study strategies, time management skills, and organization techniques to enhance their learning experience.

2. Communication and Collaboration. Maintain open and regular communication with participating students and other support services on campus. Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure a holistic approach to the support of autistic students.

3. Resource Identification. Assist participating students in navigating available resources on campus.

4. Goal Setting and Progress Monitoring. Work with participating students to establish goals and monitor their progress. Provide constructive feedback and encouragement to help students build confidence and self-advocacy skills.

5. Documentation and Reporting. Maintain accurate records of coaching sessions, progress, and any challenges faced by participating students. Prepare regular reports on the effectiveness of the coaching services.

Qualifications:

- Currently enrolled in an SDSU graduate program

- Strong interpersonal, rapport-building, and communication skills

- Empathy and understanding of the diverse needs of autistic students

- Ability to adapt coaching techniques to individual needs

Preferred Qualifications:

- Enrolled in one of the following SDSU graduate programs: Education, Counseling, Psychology, Student Affairs, and related field of study

-Knowledge or experience in working with individuals on the autism spectrum

-Knowledge of D2L learning management system

-Familiarity with support resources and services on campus

Position Details:

Position is up to 20 hours per week for spring semester 2024 with a pay rate of $15/hour. Position will be supervised by OMAA Director. Schedule will be created based on number of students participating and students’ availability.

Application Process:

Send letter of application, resume, and contact information for three professional references to:

Shelly Bayer, Director

Office of Multicultural Affairs & Accessibility

Box 2815C

University Student Union 271

South Dakota State University

Brookings SD 57007

Shelly.Bayer@sdstate.edu

To Request More Information:

Contact Shelly Bayer, OMAA Director, at Shelly.Bayer@sdstate.edu or 605-688-6494.