Graduate Division seeks International Peer Advisor for 2016-7

To better serve the growing international graduate student community at UCSB, the Graduate Division, in partnership with the Division of Student Affairs, is currently accepting applications for a new position, the International Peer Advisor, to begin employment in Fall 2016 and run through Spring 2017.

The International Peer will work to welcome and support the success of UCSB's international graduate students. This position will require collaboration with a number of campus offices and departments to establish and maintain partnerships that serve the needs of this unique population. The successful applicant will identify and promote campus resources of interest to international graduate students; work individually with students; and develop presentations for faculty, students, and staff on best practices for international student success. This position provides the opportunity to gain valuable experience working in academic administration while supporting fellow graduate students. The International Peer position may be extended beyond Spring 2017.

PAYMENT: $18.00 per hour, plus fee payment equivalent to TA-ship for 25% time work

HOURS: 10-16 hours weekly (25%-40% appointment) during the academic year

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Priority consideration given to applications received by Tuesday, October 11

Primary responsibilities include:

• Collaborate with the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) to learn more about their role in advising, immigration services, and programming for the UCSB community;
• Develop and implement programs and resources that enhance international students' academic and cultural experiences;
• Contribute to trainings and support for campus administrators and faculty to better support international students;
• Build campus partnerships that promote diversity initiatives;
• Compile surveys, data, and program information;
• Contribute articles and announcements to the UCSB GradPost;
• Attend selected workshops and panel discussions and write articles about them for the GradPost;
• Assist with campus-wide events and programming, including New Student Orientation and the Grad Slam;
• Work collaboratively with other peer advisors on events and workshops sponsored through the Graduate Student Resource Center (1215 Student Resource Building).

The International Peer also holds drop-in office hours, responds to student requests (by email, phone, or in person) for information or assistance, provides confidential advice, and makes referrals as needed.

Minimum qualifications:

• Has completed one year of graduate study in residence at UCSB, is in good academic standing, is within university time-to-degree standards, and meets all other standard student employment eligibility requirements;
• Is energetic and knowledgeable about the UCSB campus, demonstrates organizational abilities, and possesses good communication and interpersonal skills;
• Can represent graduate student interests and concerns, and is attentive to the goals of excellence and diversity in UCSB's graduate education;
• Has experience with or demonstrated ability to learn new software and technology (e.g. social media platforms, content management systems, image editing software, etc.);
• Writing, interviewing, and presentation skills.

Previous experience working with international students or involvement with an international student population is desirable. Prior experience in advising, teaching, and workshop or conference planning is also desirable, although training will be provided.

Additional Benefits: With the appropriate eligibility and approval, the position may be combined with a GSR or TA position, as long as the combined hours do not exceed 75% appointment. Graduate Division will pay partial fees and graduate student health insurance (Gaucho Health Insurance) equivalent to those provided for TAs if other student academic appointments or awards do not provide these fees.

Application Process: Interested applicants should submit a cover letter indicating interests and highlighting related experiences, along with a formal resume to Robert Hamm in the Graduate Division, 3117 Cheadle Hall, mail code 2070 or by e-mail to robert.hamm@graddiv.ucsb.edu.