Life & Career Studies Housing Graduate Assistant & Community Living Support

Calvin University•Grand Rapids, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Calvin University is seeking a dynamic and motivated individual to serve as a Residence Hall and Community Living Support Graduate Assistant within a traditional first-year/sophomore residence hall. This role involves acting as a role model and ensuring the safety and inclusion of Life & Career Studies Program (LCS) students on campus. The position also includes working one-on-one or in small groups with LCS students to help them achieve their independent living goals. Key responsibilities include conducting in-person checks, encouraging participation in residence hall events, problem-solving with residents, mediating roommate disagreements, arranging safe transportation, responding to emergency calls, and supporting students in meeting their individualized goals. Additionally, the role will connect LCS students with social opportunities on campus and provide social coaching as needed. Calvin University’s Life & Career Studies Program is dedicated to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, empowering them to gain independence and employment skills. The ideal candidate will share this passion for positively impacting the lives of others. This is a 36-week, part-time, live-in position with flexible hours that require availability for assigned weekends. It is an excellent opportunity for a graduate student seeking a role with minimal weekday commitment but availability on weekends.

Requirements

Commitment to the educational mission of Calvin as a Christian liberal arts University affiliated with the Christian Reformed Church.
A commitment to the Christian faith and to the integration of faith, learning, and student development.
Demonstrated awareness and commitment to effectively establishing relationships and positive communication across multiple dimensions of diversity including, but not limited to, race, gender, physical limitations, class, or religious perspectives.

Responsibilities

Assist the supervising LCS Housing Manager with providing overall leadership to LCS students living on campus.
Availability to handle emergency calls two days and evenings, including two to three weekends a month.
Meet with LCS students individually, when needed, to help problem-solve issues frequently experienced by students adjusting to dorm life.
Meet with LCS students individually to help them identify inclusive activities and events they are interested in and facilitate peer connections.
Help coordinate, promote, and decrease barriers to LCS participation in residence life activities.
Work alongside students to help promote independent living skills based on their individualized goals.
Assist in maintaining effective student relations by collaborating on retention efforts, roommate negotiations, and provide informal mentoring to contribute to students’ success and growth.
Attend a team meeting one day per week.
Attend meetings with Residence Life, Student Conduct, and LCS staff as available.
Participate in regular professional development and learning opportunities with other Graduate Assistants and colleagues as available.