STUDENT-First-Generation Office Program Assistant

Position Summary/Overview 

The First-Gen Office Programs Assistant supports the Unity Center's efforts to create meaningful experiences, opportunities, and resources for first-generation college students. This student leader will assist with program planning, outreach, event coordination, and community-building initiatives that foster belonging, connection, and student success. The First-Generation Programs Assistant helps strengthen the first-generation student community by creating opportunities for connection, celebration, learning, and support. Through this work, the assistant contributes to the Unity Center's mission of ensuring that students feel seen, empowered, connected, and successful throughout their college experience. 

Position Information 

Position Title: First-Generation Office Programs Assistant 

Department: Unity Center 

Program: First-Generation Programs 

Hiring Manager: Cliff-Simon Vital 

Pay Rate: $16.00 per hour (Plus standard annual increases when applicable) 

Term of Employment: Full Academic Year (Fall and Spring Semesters) 

Key Responsibilities 

• Assist with planning and implementing first-generation student programs, workshops, and events 
• Support signature programs and celebrations, including First-Generation College Celebration Week and other campus initiatives 
• Help facilitate educational, social, leadership, and community-building opportunities for first-generation students 
• Promote programs through marketing, outreach, and social media efforts 
• Maintain attendance records, program data, and student engagement tracking 
• Support communication with participants, campus partners, and external guests 
• Assist with event logistics, including setup, registration, hospitality, and breakdown
• Collaborate with Unity Center staff to identify and address the needs of first-generation students 
• Attend staff meetings and contribute ideas for improving programs and services 

Qualifications 

• Strong organizational and time-management skills 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively 
• Reliable, responsible, and detail-oriented 
• Commitment to supporting student success and fostering inclusive communities 
• Interest in leadership development, community engagement, and first-generation student advocacy 

Preferred Qualifications (Not Required) 

• First-generation college student experience 
• Previous involvement in student organizations, mentoring programs, or campus leadership initiatives 
• Experience with event planning, outreach, or social media marketing 
• Familiarity with Canva, Microsoft Office, or other programming and communication tools 

Compensation & Benefits 

• Paid at minimum wage set by the college 
• Opportunity to develop skills in program planning, leadership, event management, marketing, and student engagement 
• Professional mentorship from Unity Center staff 
• Meaningful experience supporting the success and belonging of first-generation students 

Ithaca College’s student employment program offers meaningful experiential learning opportunities that develop transferable skills sought by employers across various industries. These positions allow students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world professional settings, fostering both personal and professional growth.

Ithaca College is committed to building a diverse academic community and encourages members of underrepresented groups to apply. Experience that contributes to the diversity of the college is appreciated.

It is advised that applicants apply attaching both a resume and cover letter. Application screening will begin immediately. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of the I-9 and employment eligibility requirements. You will need to bring your original, unexpired, authorized personal identification documents to your designated representative or The Office of Human Resources (Peggy Ryan Williams Center, Garden Level) to complete the form. More about acceptable documentation can be found here: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acce... Please note that photos or copies will not be accepted.

For assistance with the application process, contact Student Employment at [email protected].

For more information about student employment or specific job inquiries, visit our website or contact the hiring manager listed on the job posting.