Graduate assistantships are opportunities for students to be involved in teaching, research, or employment on campus.  Typically, assistantships are very competitive opportunities that carry a strong financial aid package that may include tuition, stipend, and health benefits.  At SI, the most common types of assistantships are teaching assistantships and research assistantships.  There are also a limited number of library assistantships available.  Learn about success stories from current SI students, including statistics on how many students get positions, which departments typically hire SI students, and tips and strategies on how to find GSI/GSRA positions. 

Teaching assistantships (GSIs)

Some SI students with relevant backgrounds have obtained Graduate Student Instructor (GSI) positions teaching undergraduates in other departments (such as psychology, communications, English, chemistry, etc.).   In general, GSI positions are highly competitive, and tend to value teaching experience.  There are also opportunities for grader positions in some departments, which support instructors. Contact departments that you may be qualified for, and/or see posted positions.  

Research assistantships (GSRAs)

SI students may be hired as a Graduate Student Research Assistantship (GSRA), which is a competitive position awarded by individual faculty who have funded research projects. Strategies for increasing your competitiveness for GSRA positions include: taking courses taught by faculty whose research interests you, discussing mutual interests during office hours, or offering to work as an hourly research assistant. GSRA positions cover tuition and offer students a substantial stipend and health insurance. Learn more about SI's extensive research endeavors.

Library assistantships (ULAs or PLAs)

There are two types of library assistantships: positions in the University Library and  positions in the Ann Arbor District Library.  Visit the University Library Associates (ULA) page to read more about the university library program. The Public Library Associates program is for students interested in work within the public library system.  Students are nominated for this position (one award per year).