GTA Job Description
The Center for the Study of Rhetoric in Society is committed to providing intellectual and professional growth for its graduate assistants. Applicants from across the curriculum are welcome although preference will be given to those with a background in rhetoric, composition, professional or technical writing/communication and who are pursuing advanced studies in one or more of those areas.
Criteria for Selection
- Knowledge of the fields of rhetoric and composition: familiarity with areas and methods of research
- Strong research and writing skills. Interest or experience in grant writing preferred
- Good communication skills: a collaborative working style, openness to diverse perspectives, desire to interact with a range of the center's partners and constituents (faculty at Virginia Tech and nationally, regional community members, students and faculty across the disciplines)
- Flexibility, creativity, and dependability
- Computer skills (visual design and writing for the web skills desirable)
- Ability to work independently and take initiative on new projects
Responsibilities
- Work with Center Director, affiliated faculty, and graduate students to determine specific tasks at the beginning of each term that the GA remains in the position. Whenever possible, the assistantship will be tailored to the individual needs and interests of the GA as they intersect with program and affiliated faculty needs.
- Work collaboratively to develop, participate in, and lead Center research projects and activities.
- GAs are expected to attend a weekly staff meeting (one-two hours), set aside six hours/week to be available on campus if necessary for collaborative work or research meetings, and work independently on projects during the week (up to ten additional hours—this will vary each week depending on project deadlines and other factors).