What are the responsibilities and job description for the Graduate Assistant for Academic Excellence (Beg Fall 2026) position at Inside Higher Ed?
Job Title: Graduate Assistant for Academic Excellence (Beg Fall 2026)
Location: UWG Recruiting Location
Regular/Temporary: Temporary
Full/Part Time: Part-Time
Job ID: 297390
About Us
Since 1906, the University of West Georgia (UWG) has been home to those who seek a transformative college experience. UWG is a leading residential, doctoral comprehensive university that offers a broad undergraduate and graduate curriculum based on a liberal arts foundation.Nestled among the pines on a picturesque 645 acres is the University of West Georgia- a hidden gem approximately 40 miles west of Atlanta. Serving approximately 16,000 students, and offering more than 100 programs, UWG is committed to advancing innovative academic programs and a student-centered business model. Perennially ranked by U.S. News & World Report, the Princeton Review, and Colleges of Distinction as a top national university, West Georgia offers 86 fields of study, including business, computing, nursing, education, STEM, communication and digital media, social sciences, and the fine and performing arts. UWG generates a regional economic impact of more than $650 million annually and provides a safe, quality, and affordable university experience that connects students to post-graduate career and leadership opportunities. UWG has been recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for its institutional commitment to community engagement through teaching, research and creative activities, and public service. West Georgia is one of only 119 U.S. colleges and universities to receive the elective classification in 2020 and is among only 359 institutions nationally. Dedicated to creating a first-choice university for students, alumni, employees, and communities, UWG seeks employees who will advance and support the University's mission of fulfilling the talent needs of western Georgia and the Atlanta metropolitan area, while contributing to the social, cultural, and economic development of the region and state.
The University of West Georgia offers a comprehensive total rewards package designed to support faculty and staff across multiple dimensions; health, wellness, financial security, and professional growth. Employees working at least 30 hours per week gain access to a range of health plans, including medical, dental, and vision, wellness programs, and robust retirement options through Georgia Teachers Retirement System (TRS), Optional Retirement Program, and voluntary 403(b) and 457(b) plans. Employees are granted 13 paid holidays and paid time off accruals and are eligible to participate in the University System of Georgia's Tuition Assistance Program. Fringe benefits include a variety of resources focused on employee physical, mental, financial, and social well-being through Acentra Employee Assistance Program in addition to personal financial advising with Captrust. UWG also offers exclusive discounts and special offers on entertainment, travel, and other products and services through the Perks at Work program, free access to the university recreation facility, discounted campus dining options, and more!
Living in Carrollton, "The City of Dreams," offers the advantages of city life with a small-town vibe. This progressive community with Southern flair offers plenty of shopping, restaurants, nightlife opportunities, and cultural events. Named a City of Excellence in Georgia and listed as one of the 50 Best Small Southern Towns, Carrollton is the cultural, educational, health care, and commercial center for the west Georgia region.
At the heart of Carrollton is its historic downtown and Adamson Square lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants. Each season offers unique local events and opportunities for year-round recreation. Outdoor activities abound through award-winning spaces, including an 18-mile paved walking and biking Greenbelt trail that encircles the city and passes through the UWG campus.
The city embraces the University's students, faculty, and staff, and welcomes the diversity UWG brings to the community.
Invested in education with highly rated city and county K-12 systems, both city and county public school graduation rates are 90% and above and rank among the top in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Job Summary
Daily operations of academic enhancement program including maintenance of computer lab/study room and monitoring daily and nightly study hall sessions. Work one on one with student athletes who are having academic issues. Graduate assistant will assess each student athlete client and utilize training methods to meet each student's individual academic need.
Schedule individual meetings with student athlete clients to create academic plans. Provide administrative support in preparation of documents and communications to students, routine correspondence, and other areas required. Update and maintain individual student athlete client notebooks with the following information for the advisor: student-tutor evaluation forms, grade reports, progress reports, etc. Communicate any immediate concerns or foreseen potential issues with supervisor. Monitor student-athlete client academic progress through the Student Success Collaborative. Assess progress and implement any necessary academic skill remediation.
Graduate assistant is responsible for knowing and applying both University and NCAA rules and regulations. Assist in the planning, activation and execution of student athlete life skills programming. Other duties as assigned to accomplish organizational objectives.
To be considered for a graduate assistantship at the University of West Georgia (UWG), students must meet the following criteria:
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.
Conditions of Employment
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of West Georgia as determined by the University of West Georgia in its sole discretion; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials, reference checks; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test. Offers are made expressly subject to the applicable federal and state laws, to the statutes, rules and regulations of this institution and to the Bylaws and Policies of the Board of Regents (BOR) of the University System of Georgia (USG), which are available for your inspection upon request.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Equal opportunity and decisions based on merit are fundamental values of the University System of Georgia (USG). The Board of Regents prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual's age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status ("protected status"). No individual shall be excluded from the participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any USG program or activity because of the individual's protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual's protected status, except that preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.
Location: UWG Recruiting Location
Regular/Temporary: Temporary
Full/Part Time: Part-Time
Job ID: 297390
About Us
Since 1906, the University of West Georgia (UWG) has been home to those who seek a transformative college experience. UWG is a leading residential, doctoral comprehensive university that offers a broad undergraduate and graduate curriculum based on a liberal arts foundation.Nestled among the pines on a picturesque 645 acres is the University of West Georgia- a hidden gem approximately 40 miles west of Atlanta. Serving approximately 16,000 students, and offering more than 100 programs, UWG is committed to advancing innovative academic programs and a student-centered business model. Perennially ranked by U.S. News & World Report, the Princeton Review, and Colleges of Distinction as a top national university, West Georgia offers 86 fields of study, including business, computing, nursing, education, STEM, communication and digital media, social sciences, and the fine and performing arts. UWG generates a regional economic impact of more than $650 million annually and provides a safe, quality, and affordable university experience that connects students to post-graduate career and leadership opportunities. UWG has been recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for its institutional commitment to community engagement through teaching, research and creative activities, and public service. West Georgia is one of only 119 U.S. colleges and universities to receive the elective classification in 2020 and is among only 359 institutions nationally. Dedicated to creating a first-choice university for students, alumni, employees, and communities, UWG seeks employees who will advance and support the University's mission of fulfilling the talent needs of western Georgia and the Atlanta metropolitan area, while contributing to the social, cultural, and economic development of the region and state.
The University of West Georgia offers a comprehensive total rewards package designed to support faculty and staff across multiple dimensions; health, wellness, financial security, and professional growth. Employees working at least 30 hours per week gain access to a range of health plans, including medical, dental, and vision, wellness programs, and robust retirement options through Georgia Teachers Retirement System (TRS), Optional Retirement Program, and voluntary 403(b) and 457(b) plans. Employees are granted 13 paid holidays and paid time off accruals and are eligible to participate in the University System of Georgia's Tuition Assistance Program. Fringe benefits include a variety of resources focused on employee physical, mental, financial, and social well-being through Acentra Employee Assistance Program in addition to personal financial advising with Captrust. UWG also offers exclusive discounts and special offers on entertainment, travel, and other products and services through the Perks at Work program, free access to the university recreation facility, discounted campus dining options, and more!
Living in Carrollton, "The City of Dreams," offers the advantages of city life with a small-town vibe. This progressive community with Southern flair offers plenty of shopping, restaurants, nightlife opportunities, and cultural events. Named a City of Excellence in Georgia and listed as one of the 50 Best Small Southern Towns, Carrollton is the cultural, educational, health care, and commercial center for the west Georgia region.
At the heart of Carrollton is its historic downtown and Adamson Square lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants. Each season offers unique local events and opportunities for year-round recreation. Outdoor activities abound through award-winning spaces, including an 18-mile paved walking and biking Greenbelt trail that encircles the city and passes through the UWG campus.
The city embraces the University's students, faculty, and staff, and welcomes the diversity UWG brings to the community.
Invested in education with highly rated city and county K-12 systems, both city and county public school graduation rates are 90% and above and rank among the top in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Job Summary
Daily operations of academic enhancement program including maintenance of computer lab/study room and monitoring daily and nightly study hall sessions. Work one on one with student athletes who are having academic issues. Graduate assistant will assess each student athlete client and utilize training methods to meet each student's individual academic need.
Schedule individual meetings with student athlete clients to create academic plans. Provide administrative support in preparation of documents and communications to students, routine correspondence, and other areas required. Update and maintain individual student athlete client notebooks with the following information for the advisor: student-tutor evaluation forms, grade reports, progress reports, etc. Communicate any immediate concerns or foreseen potential issues with supervisor. Monitor student-athlete client academic progress through the Student Success Collaborative. Assess progress and implement any necessary academic skill remediation.
Graduate assistant is responsible for knowing and applying both University and NCAA rules and regulations. Assist in the planning, activation and execution of student athlete life skills programming. Other duties as assigned to accomplish organizational objectives.
- 93% - Daily operations of academic excellence program including maintenance of computer lab/study room and monitoring daily and/or nightly study hall sessions. Graduate assistant will assess each student athlete and utilize training methods to meet each student's individual academic need. Provide one-on-one academic coaching. Monitor and track degree audits throughout the semester to provide weekly information to each of our programs. Schedule individual meetings with student athlete clients to create academic plans. Provide administrative support in preparation of documents and communications to students, routine correspondence, and other areas required. Communicate any immediate concerns or foreseen potential issues with supervisor. Assist with maintaining academic records of each individual student athlete client. Monitor student-athlete client academic progress through the Student Success Collaborative (EAB). Assess progress and implement any necessary academic skill remediation. Assist with Summer and Fall Orientation.
- 2% - Mandatory Compliance Training, Job Training and any other Professional Development
- 5% - Graduate assistant is responsible for knowing and applying both University and NCAA rules and regulations. Assist in the planning, activation and execution of student athlete life skills programming. Other duties as assigned to accomplish organizational objectives
To be considered for a graduate assistantship at the University of West Georgia (UWG), students must meet the following criteria:
- Be fully admitted to a graduate degree program at UWG. Please note: Students admitted provisionally are not eligible for assistantship positions.
- Hold a Bachelor¿s degree from an accredited institution.
- Be enrolled full-time in a UWG graduate program during the assistantship period.
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all previous and current graduate coursework and remain in good academic standing.
- Meet eligibility requirements for employment in the United States.
- Bachelor's degree in Math, English, Education, Speech Pathology, Psychology, Counseling, or Sport Management are preferred.
- Able to commit to working for at least a 1-year commitment.
- Knowledgeable of Microsoft Office Suite: Excel, Power Point, and Word.
- Excellent communication and written skills.
- Readiness to help with a variety of programs and tasks.
- Well organized, self-starter, and self-motivated.
- Willingness to collaborate with staff and other GAs and interns.
- Comfortable in diverse settings and diverse communities.
- Ability to prioritize your workload. Ability to work under pressure in order to meet deadlines.
- Capable of working unsupervised and as part of a team.
- Professionalism is a must.
- A monthly stipend of $1000.00 per month
- A tuition waiver, reducing your graduate tuition to $25 per semester plus mandatory fees as long as you are employed in your assistantship.
- Resume
- UWG Graduate School acceptance letter
- Requires sitting for long periods of time.
- For questions or further information about this position, please contact Rachel Jennings at rajennings@westga.edu.
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.
Conditions of Employment
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of West Georgia as determined by the University of West Georgia in its sole discretion; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials, reference checks; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test. Offers are made expressly subject to the applicable federal and state laws, to the statutes, rules and regulations of this institution and to the Bylaws and Policies of the Board of Regents (BOR) of the University System of Georgia (USG), which are available for your inspection upon request.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Equal opportunity and decisions based on merit are fundamental values of the University System of Georgia (USG). The Board of Regents prohibits discrimination on the basis of an individual's age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status ("protected status"). No individual shall be excluded from the participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under, any USG program or activity because of the individual's protected status; nor shall any individual be given preferential treatment because of the individual's protected status, except that preferential treatment may be given on the basis of veteran status when appropriate under federal or state law.
Salary : $650