Apply to Be a Graduate Mentor

Become a Mentor

Information Update

We are currently accepting application for Graduate Teaching Assistants in the UNST Peer Mentor Programs for Fall Term 2024 positions. Applications are due July 29, 2024, 8:00 a.m. See below for details.

Graduate Mentor Positions

Who is eligible to apply?

To apply for a Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) position in UNST, all applicants must meet minimum program requirements for eligibility and demonstrate the minimum required skills in their application materials. GTAs are hired in accordance with the GEU-CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement). Students will need to attend full-time once hired and not be post-bac or certificate-only status.

University Studies Mentor Program Application Hints and Tips

Portland State University and the University Studies Program are equal opportunity employers, and Graduate Mentors receive competitive compensation for their work.

Read the position description carefully.
Review available information about University Studies and the Peer Mentor Programs.
Prepare your required attachments (documents) in advance before submitting your application in the link.
Save your documents as you work on them.
Be sure to submit your application before the due date and time in case you encounter any technical difficulties.
Please check your Spam filters for communication about the search once you have submitted it.

What are the additional requirements for the application?

The position description link provides full details and application criteria, including how to prepare your application materials. In the application form, you are required to provide your CV/Resume and a cover letter, and you will answer a short essay question.

If you have any questions, please contact the University Studies office: 503-725-5890.

What is the recruitment and hiring process?

University Studies' GTA positions are determined by course enrollments. The course numbers fluctuate each term, and future opportunities are determined based on student registration.

Applications will then be reviewed for minimum requirements, and those who meet the requirements will have their applications forwarded onto a committee for review.

NOTE: If an application does not meet minimum requirements by the due date, it will not be able to receive a review. We cannot notify applicants about incomplete applications, so please check it carefully.

Applicants selected for interviews will be contacted by email to set up an interview time.

University Studies GTAs may not hold other campus employment during the period they are contracted to mentor in University Studies.

Graduate Mentor Appointment and Program Requirements

To apply for a GTA position in UNST, all applicants must meet minimum program requirements for eligibility and demonstrate the minimum required skills in their application materials. GTAs are hired in accordance with the GEU-CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement). Please see the Position Description for more details.

Minimum Required Skills

Outstanding interpersonal skills:
- Ability to navigate challenging situations; collaborate with different communication styles; persevere through the process of resolving conflict; and lead with deep listening skills and empathy.
Excellent oral and written communication skills:
- Ability to write for and support students with their writing in a range of styles for formal and informal academic and community audiences.
Has ability to work flexibly, prioritize multiple tasks, communicate well with students and faculty, organize time efficiently, and quickly respond to email.
Has had prior experience in a teaching, mentoring, or equivalent leadership position using group facilitation, teaching strategies, and 1:1 support skills, such as (but not limited to) a team leader, a tutor, a volunteer, or a coach in an educational, workplace, or community organization.
Has a positive attitude and willingness to act as a role model.
Is highly self-motivated and driven by a desire to create collaborative learning communities.

Mentor Compensation

Graduate Peer Mentors are hired as Graduate Teaching Assistants and receive graduate tuition up to 9 credits at the Standard Base Rate, a portion of their mandatory fees, and a monthly stipend. All GTAs are assessed tuition at the in-state rate. More information on university-wide Graduate Assistantships is available from the Office of Graduate Studies. Post-baccalaureate and certificate-only students are not eligible for the Graduate Assistantship positions; mentors must be enrolled full-time in a degree-granting program at PSU.

What are other benefits?

Every mentor benefits in unique ways. Mentors become part of a community of peers and scholars who help others to critically and responsibly engage in our increasingly diverse and interconnected world. Mentors gain valuable leadership experience, develop close working relationships with faculty and mentees, and become even better students themselves.

Apply to be a Grad Mentor