CS-Administrative Assistant - Graduate Assistant for Outreach

• Job Type: Short-term Casual
• Regular/Temporary: Temporary
• Hours Per Week: 20
• Salary Range: $26.00 - $26.00

Position Summary

University Life is a central division that supports all Columbia students by fostering an inclusive, connected University community across Columbia’s 17 schools and all campuses. We serve as a hub for student engagement, cross-school collaboration, and coordinated University-wide initiatives that strengthen the student experience. Our work is grounded in building trusted relationships across the institution so that students can access the resources, opportunities, and support systems they need to succeed.

We advance student well-being, belonging, and personal development through programs, policies, and partnerships that encourage connection, leadership, and dialogue across diverse experiences and perspectives. Guided by our core values of connection, integrity, respect, service, and continuous learning, we are committed to creating environments where students feel welcomed, supported, and empowered throughout their academic journey.

Through close collaboration with students, faculty, and staff, University Life champions a Columbia defined by inclusion, community citizenship, and holistic support; one where every student can participate fully in campus life and contribute meaningfully to our shared University community.

This position sits within the Strategic Student Engagement unit and is part of the Engagement & Education Department (E&E). E&E advances vibrant and inclusive cross-school communities by creating opportunities for students to build meaningful connections, engage across differences, and strengthen their sense of social responsibility.

Reporting to the Senior Program Manager for Strategic Student Engagement, the Graduate Assistant (GA) supports E&E’s student engagement efforts through the creation of flyers and promotional materials, light outreach and occasional event support. The GA will help promote E&E programs and initiatives and connect students with opportunities to engage with the broader Columbia community. 

This position is well suited for a graduate student interested in communications, student engagement, higher education, event support or community-building. The GA will gain experience developing promotional materials, supporting outreach efforts, and contributing to programs designed to foster student connection and engagement.

Responsibilities

• Design and production: Create flyers, social media graphics, digital displays, and signage using Canva or similar tools, following University Life templates and brand guidelines.

• Promotional content: Help draft and proofread event descriptions, captions, and outreach messages that are accurate, accessible, and welcoming.

• Collaboration and review: Gather event details, incorporate staff feedback, and prepare materials for supervisor and Communications review as appropriate.

• Coordination: Track requests and deadlines, organize files and templates, and prepare approved materials for print or digital distribution.

• Outreach and event support: Share approved promotions through campus channels and assist with occasional tabling, resource fairs, and E&E events.

• Research: Support with researching current trends, innovations, and best practices in student outreach and analyze data and findings to identify opportunities for improving our outreach efforts.

• Administrative Responsibilities: Assist with any additional administrative tasks related to E&E programs, including scheduling, participant registration, and communication as needed. 

Minimum Qualifications

• Current enrollment in a graduate program in the New York area; good academic and disciplinary standing and willingness to complete a disciplinary check.

• Experience using Canva or a similar design tool through coursework, student organizations, employment, or personal projects.

• Clear writing and attention to detail; ability to meet deadlines, work independently and collaboratively, and incorporate feedback.

• Commitment to engaging students and colleagues with cultural humility and respect; availability for in-person work.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with event promotion, student communications, or accessible design.

• Interest in student engagement and community building, and willingness to learn the E&E Curriculum.

Other Requirements

• Type other requirements and/or special indicators if CUIMC

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.