Outstanding Graduate Assistant Awards
Each spring, the Graduate Student Senate recognizes an excellent administrative graduate assistant, research assistant and teaching assistant.
Outstanding administrative graduate assistant
Many administrative and academic offices could not run effectively if it were not for the dedicated help of graduate assistants. This award recognizes one graduate student who has proven to be capable of taking on responsibilities beyond the job requirements.
Nominees will be asked to submit electronically the following to complete the application process:
- Curriculum vitae (CV).
- One to three letters of recommendation from supervisor or peers.
- A one-page reflection of your responsibilities and contributions.
Outstanding teaching graduate assistant
Teaching assistants educate students about the fundamentals of their areas. An exceptional TA encourages students to succeed, while modifying the curriculum to enrich course application and takes on responsibilities beyond the job requirements.
Nominees will be asked to submit electronically the following to complete the application process:
- Copy of teaching evaluation form and scores for all available classes and semesters.
- One to three letters of recommendation from students (previous or current).
- One letter of recommendation from a supervisor who has observed you teaching.
- A one-page reflection of your teaching philosophies, responsibilities, and contributions.
Outstanding research graduate assistant
This award recognizes one graduate student who primarily works as a research assistant. The graduate student earning this award plays an integral role in a professor’s research and takes on responsibilities beyond the job requirements.
Nominees will be asked to submit electronically the following to complete the application process:
- Curriculum vitae (CV).
- One to three letters of recommendation from supervisor or peers.
- A one-page reflection on your responsibilities and contributions.
Nomination and application process
Faculty, staff, and students are welcome to submit nominations for these awards. Nominations are due by 5 p.m. on December 1st. (If December 1 falls on a weekend or holiday, nominations will be accepted on the next working day).
Nominated students will be contacted via email with instructions for completing their application. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on February 15, 2026.