Graduate Assistant: Housing & Residence Life

Biola University•La Mirada, CA

54d•Onsite

About The Position

The Graduate Assistant is a live-in residential education opportunity in an upperclassmen apartment community. The purpose of this assistantship is to provide the individual an opportunity to apply and practice theory learned in the classroom. The Graduate Assistant under the supervision of the Assistant Director of Housing & Residence Life, is responsible for the coordination and development of the residence program within his/her living area. S/he is the main facilitator in the planning and implementation of a meaningful residence life experience for students. The Graduate Assistant is primarily an educator with a developmental philosophy, committed to helping residential students bridge their academic and interpersonal worlds. Included as responsibilities are: general counseling and guidance, living area programming, supporting Resident Advisor staff selection, training and development. The Graduate Assistant intentionally plans a living-learning program that emphasizes the development of community.

Requirements

Bachelors degree and enrollment in a degree-granting graduate program during the period of employment.
Demonstrate the ability to cultivate relationships with people and respond to conflict.
Exhibit an open-mindedness to issues of diversity and inclusion.
Willing to work some nights and weekends.
Willingness to learn and apply student leadership and student affairs theory and best practices.
Holds personal theological beliefs that are in agreement with the Biola Doctrinal Statement. Maintain a lifestyle consistent with sound Christian principles and standards of conduct promulgated by the institution.

Nice To Haves

Preferred one year or more of leadership and/or experience in a university setting.
Proven ability to complete administrative tasks in a timely manner.
Enrollment in a Higher Education, College Counseling, Student Development or similar program at an accredited university.
One year of Resident Advisor or similar leadership experience.

Responsibilities

Residence Life Leadership:
Support Resident Advisor selection process
Attend 6 Spring Training sessions on Wednesdays from 3:00-4:30 pm
Assist Resident Directors with development and implementation of Resident Advisor training cycle (Spring Training, Fall Training, and In-Service Training)
Understand and communicate the rationale for Biola University Community Standards and apartment regulations
Support or not openly disagree with University regulations
Involvement with Students:
Plan apartment programming which reflects the Philosophy & Strategic Plan of Residence Life-Our Vision, Mission and Values
Establish visibility, availability, and approachability - develop a familiarity with residents' individual needs
Confront, counsel, care, and refer student discipline
Address Student Care issues as they arise and respond/report immediately in case of emergency
Attend University chapel at least two times per month
Administration:
Manage the use and upkeep of all rooms and services within the apartment community
Oversee opening and closing of the apartments, and provide support for housing systems such as room change
Communicate custodial and maintenance needs to facilities services personnel and/or housing, and monitor progress
Assume direct responsibility for apartment programming fund
Maintain regular office hours
Professional Growth:
Attend Residence Life staff meetings and co-labs as directed to participate in Residence Life planning as well as staff development
Attend Student Development Divisional meetings (bi-weekly)
Schedule regular one-on-one meetings with Assistant Director of Housing & Residence Life