In fall 2022, Missouri State University piloted the first ever community graduate assistantship.
“We created an opportunity for businesses and graduate students to connect,” said Dr. Jerry Masterson, director of graduate interdisciplinary programs at MSU.
Through the program, the university partners with businesses to bring them accomplished graduate students to work as graduate assistants (GAs).
The program is a collaboration between MSU’s Graduate College and Division of Community and Global Partnerships.
A mutually beneficial partnership
The partnership helps bring innovative thinking and fresh talent to businesses.
It also helps support the development of the next generation of leaders and grow the success of the community.
“GAs use their expertise to help businesses and provide new perspectives,” Masterson said. “Businesses provide financial assistance and hands-on experience for the GAs.”
In addition, the placement can provide an extended interview period to see if a GA may be a good fit for the business after graduation.
MSU has partnered with nine businesses to date, including those in health care, research, manufacturing and more. After piloting the program successfully,…
