GRADUATE TEACHING ASSISTANTSHIP
IN WOMEN'S STUDIES

WE ARE CURRENTLY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS. Application deadline EXTENDED:  MARCH 18, 2013 BY 4:30 P.M.

The Women's Studies Program will have available for the coming year one or more positions for a graduate teaching assistant. Students appointed will assist with and lead discussion sections for the core courses in Women's Studies (WOMS 230 & WOMS 235). In addition, they may help with research and other program activities. Contingent upon satisfactory performance of duties, the assistant will be reappointed for a second academic year.

Working for our program provides many benefits. Our students graduate with experience teaching in two areas, which is an asset in a tight job market. Participating in the life of an interdisciplinary program also leads students to consider their studies from multiple perspectives, broadening their insights. Finally, as a small program, we are able to provide every student with opportunities to engage in non-teaching aspects of academic work, such as committee service and curriculum development. We offer intensive training in pedagogy, with particular attention to teaching to diverse audiences and dealing with controversial subjects.

Applicants should be a graduate student in good standing, show evidence of relevant experience, display an interest and background in Women's Studies, possess strong research abilities, and demonstrate excellent English written and oral communication skills. We seek representation from a variety of disciplines and populations within the university. Ordinarily, our teaching assistants are expected to enroll in the graduate certificate in Women's Studies.

To Apply:

Applicants will be required to provide:

• A current résumé or c.v.;
• A copy of the Graduate School's assistantship application;
• An academic writing sample (preferably related to Women's/Gender studies);
• A letter explaining their interest in the position;
• Two written letters of recommendation (Letters of recommendation must arrive in the Women’s Studies office in a signed and sealed envelope or by email directly from the author);
• Students MUST APPLY for work-study funds (work-study eligibility is NOT required for the position).

*See Helpful Links to right.

Terms of Appointment:

A. Ordinarily, assistants will be expected to enroll in the graduate concentration in Women’s Studies.

B. Assistants report to the Director of Women's Studies, although teaching duties will also be supervised by other faculty working with the program.

C. Whenever possible, pay will be at or above the rate of the graduate assistant's home department.

D. A full time assistantship is a commitment of 20 hours per week throughout the contract period; a half-time assistantship is a commitment of 10 hours per week throughout the contract period.

E. Continued appointment (up to two years) contingent upon satisfactory progress toward degree and satisfactory review by Director in consultation with program staff.

F. Other conditions of employment may be stipulated in the offering letter.

Objectives and Tasks:

*For a complete job description, contact Women's Studies at 815-753-1038; womenst@niu.edu; or stop in Reavis 103.

A. To participate in teaching Women's Studies core courses (WOMS 230 and WOMS 235) by leading discussion sections and assisting lecturers, or to assist with special topics courses (as requested).

B. To assist in planning and arrangements for program-related events and attend such events whenever possible, represent the program on committees when necessary, and participate in meetings of Women's Studies staff and the Women's Studies Executive Committee as requested.

C. To assist undergraduate students in making decisions about the minor and courses in the minor and in identifying research materials for courses in the minor

If you have questions or to submit applications, please contact: Women’s Studies Program, Reavis 103, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL 60115. Phone: 815-753-1038. Email the Women's Studies Program at womenst@niu.edu.

**Northern Illinois University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, status based on the Victims' Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA), or status as a disabled or Vietnam-era veteran. Further, the Constitution and Bylaws of Northern Illinois University provides for equal treatment regardless of political views or affiliation, and sexual orientation.