Graduate Assistant- New Student Programs

Job Summary:

Supports the Office of New Student Programs with services and programming aimed at first-year students, transfer students and their families.

Duties/Responsibilities:

This job description is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties or responsibility requirements. Employees may be required to perform other job-related instructions as requested by the supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.

• Assists with the coordination of programming and materials for New Student Orientation, Transfer Student Orientation, and Fusion First Day events for incoming freshmen and transfer students. Will also assist, as needed, with events pertaining to International Student Orientation such as airport pickups and event setups in both the fall and spring semesters. Assist with the planning and implementation of Family Day in conjunction with the Dean of Students Office and Office of Student Involvement.
• Will assist in the hiring process of the new Orientation Staff by approving applications and participating in the interview process. Will create, organize and lead the training program for the Orientation Leaders selected (approximately 70 per year.) Meet with the Director and Orientation Coordinators throughout the spring semester to plan and improve upcoming events.
• Plan and help implement and lead summer Ignite sessions for incoming freshmen. Works with the Director to plan details of the events, organize student registrations, purchase supplies and help oversee students during this event.
• Attends Admission Office prospective student event days to present information about First-Year Experience programs and opportunities as needed. 
• Perform general office duties such as answering phones and assisting students as needed. Other duties as assigned. 

Required Skills/Abilities:

To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum knowledge, skills, and/or ability deemed necessary to perform the job proficiently. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

• Must be accepted into and enrolled in one of the graduate programs at Drury University.
• Must complete the minimum of graduate hours per semester or summer necessary to be classified as a full-time graduate student and be in good standing.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record and can be insured by the university. 
• Must have reliable means of transportation to assist with purchasing of event supplies and food.
• Must be able to speak in front of large groups of current and prospective students and family members.
• Must be able to lift heavy objects up to 50 pounds.
• Must be available to attend social programs in the evening and on weekends.
• Ability to perform projects involving alphabetizing.
• Ability to read and comprehend multiple instructions.
• Ability to effectively present information in both large group and one-on-one situations to faculty, students, staff, and the public.
• Ability to be discreet and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to use a phone, fax, and copy machine.
• Ability to run errands around on and off campus.
• Ability to use common sense and exercise judgment to ensure student success.
• Ability to operate a computer and software, especially Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Ability to accurately and effectively communicate information regarding campus events and departments.
• Ability to perform multiple tasks with frequent interruptions.
• Ability to show empathy and understanding to students during stressful times.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions. The work environment is fast paced, with a noise level that is usually moderate to high. Thile performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, talk or hear and is occasionally required to sit for long periods of time. The employee must occasionally life and/or move up to 50 pounds.