Introduction
Residence Education’s mission is to create and facilitate diverse, inclusive, learning-centered communities that further the goals of the University. Our core values of belonging, restorative practices, and inclusive community building guide us in our everyday work.
The purpose of the Academic Initiatives Program Assistant (AIPA) is to assist the M Housing Residence Education Department in collaboration,administrative work, and research to help advance the three focus areas of the Academic Initiatives portfolio: the Transdisciplinary Fellows program, Theme Communities, and the Lawyers Club community. The main responsibilities of the AIPA for the 2026-2027 academic year is to support the Academic Initiatives portfolio alongside the Assistant Director of Academic Initiatives, represent the Residence Education Department at programs and events, and oversee the administration of key projects within the Academic Initiatives portfolio. This is an in-person position.
Administrative Tasks & Assessment – 70%
The Academic Initiatives Program Assistant will assist with administrative organization, including, but not limited to:
- Meet weekly with the Assistant Director of Academic Initiatives to discuss projects and progress.
- Prepare materials for Michigan Housing programs in the Academic Initiatives portfolio.
- Track outreach and recruitment including past strategies, current projects, and future opportunities.
- Work in collaboration with the Program Manager of Graduate Academic initiatives, Program Manager of Theme Communities, and Program Manager of the Lawyers Club to provide support for and leadership in residential programming and outreach.
- Organize content and archival information to update websites.
Research & Collaboration – 30%
The Academic Initiatives Program Assistant responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Publicly represent Michigan Housing and answer questions about the Transdisciplinary Fellows program, Theme Communities on campus, and the Lawyers Club community.
- Support outreach campaigns to share ways current and prospective students can engage with the Academic Initiatives portfolio of programs.
- Conduct research for the department, particularly in relation to the Academic Initiatives portfolio.
Perform other duties related to the department and M Housing as assigned by Residence Education leadership.
Position Requirements
- Enrolled as a full-time U-M Graduate student for the 2026-2027 academic year.
- Must be in good academic standing with their school/college.
- Experience in a customer service setting.
- Must have a flexible work schedule and be available to work in-person and attend evening and weekend meetings or programming.
- Must comply with all local, state, and federal laws.
- Must uphold all policies and procedures as defined by the University of Michigan Standard Practice Guide, the M Housing Community Living at Michigan Standards, the Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities, and any other applicable University policies and procedures.
- May not simultaneously hold another student position within M Housing.
Desired Qualifications
- Experience with narrative research, storytelling, or archival experience.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Strong writing skills.
- Experience with project coordination.
Time Commitment and Compensation
- This role is not eligible for remote work.
- Approximately 10-15 hours a week commitment.
- Candidates must be able to start work (insert month).
- Compensation is $15-$18/hour, depending on experience.
Contact Information
Mary Vincent, Assistant Director of Academic Initiatives, Residence Education