Many graduate students apply for graduate assistantship positions, so you need to stand out from the competition. The selection process will also include an interview, so you should brush up on your interviewing skills as well!

When filling out your application, here are some things you should remember:

• Be thorough and specific when completing the application. Make sure to fill out every question on the application.  The question you leave blank may be the one that really matters to potential supervisors.  For your application, you also include a statement explaining why you are interested in becoming a graduate assistant. Think about how you can use your skills and experiences in a graduate assistantship position. Expand on any of your qualifications on your resume that strengthen your application.
• Double-check your application and resume for errors. Take a second look through your application to make sure you did not make a mistake. Look out for spelling and grammar errors. Find a good proofreader/editor, such as a trusted friend or visit the Career Center for a free resume critique.
• Make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements. As a reminder, graduate assistants must be unconditionally admitted to a master’s degree program, be enrolled full-time, maintain a 3.0 GPA, not be registered for a full-time field placement or internship during the position, and not have other Saint Rose funding, such as a scholarship.  If you do not meet eligibility requirements, do not apply for a GA assignment.

After you submit your application, you may have to wait to hear back from a supervisor for an interview. If you are invited for an interview, don’t be nervous! Here are some tips to help you succeed:

• Research the office or academic department before the interview. Review the office or department’s webpage on the Saint Rose website. Read through the information to get an idea of what the department does and how you would fit in as a graduate assistant.
• Relax during the interview and be yourself. The supervisor wants to know what you can offer as a GA. Review your resume and pick out key points to emphasize during the interview. For example, if Biology was your major (or minor!) as an undergraduate and you are interviewing with a Biology faculty member, emphasize that in the interview.
• Practice proper business etiquette. Make sure to greet your interviewer with a firm handshake and a warm smile. Answer all the questions thoroughly and maintain eye contact. End the interview by thanking the interviewer for their time. Manners matter!
• Dress appropriately.  Choose at least “business casual” attire to wear for your interview.  It helps to match the dress code of the office you hope to join.

Put your best job search skills to work when applying and interviewing for a graduate assistantship position.  The principles are the same.  Because the selection process is competitive, take the time to work on your application and interviewing.

For questions about the graduate assistantship program, contact Alicia Audino in Graduate Admissions at audinoa@strose.edu or call 518-454-5143.