NTSAF Graduate Assistant
USC Norman Topping Student Aid FundJob Title: NTSAF Graduate Assistant
Contact Info: Dr. Rick Trevino, Director of the Norman Topping Student Aid Fund, rick.trevino@usc.edu
Open to: First Year EC students
Open positions: One
Position length: August 2026-June 2027, with the potential to be extended throughout the 2027-2028 academic year
Hours: 14-20 hours per week, depending on availability (occasional evening/weekend hours)
Compensation: $21.00 per hour
Materials: Please submit a cover letter and current resume via email
About the Norman Topping Student Aid Fund (NTSAF):
The mission of the Norman Topping Student Aid Fund is to cultivate the development of our Topping Scholars and Fellows to be leaders in their communities. To achieve this mission, the NTSAF serves as a scholarship and holistic support program for first-generation and low-income students, many of whom are from the communities surrounding USC. The NTSAF provides access to resources, strengths-based advising, community service opportunities, and purposeful programming that fosters a sense of belonging, resilience, and growth.
Job responsibilities:
The Graduate Assistant (GA) will play an integral part in the overall functioning of the NTSAF office and will assist with the following in collaboration with NTSAF staff and other GAs. NTSAF staff will work with the GA to determine assignments that align with GAs professional goals and interests. Additionally, NTSAF staff will provide the GA with mentorship and professional development opportunities.
Duties include, but are not limited to:
● Planning and executing weekly community-building events and managing an annual budget to support them.
● Assisting with programming and event responsibilities, including signature annual events, workshops throughout the year, and program assessment.
● Supporting recruitment by presenting to visiting high schools and community colleges, coordinating with counselors to provide student information, and maintaining a database of prospective applicants and current Topping Scholars & Fellows.
● Providing support to students, including engaging with current Scholars & Fellows to provide a welcoming atmosphere and connecting scholars to resources.
● Daily office responsibilities include answering phones, responding to NTSAF emails, restocking supplies, updating NTSAF social media and more.
● Undergo training in holistic advising to support the office by leading advising appointments with Topping Scholars.
● Collaborates with external and campus partners to support events and ensure smooth coordination.
● Manages and tracks inventory of office supplies, snacks, and daily operational materials while maintaining optimal stock levels and reducing shortages through proactive reordering.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
● Ability to effectively communicate with and support individuals of diverse cultural backgrounds and identities
● Demonstrate knowledge and sensitivity to issues affecting first-generation college students and/or students with high financial need
● Knowledge of campus and community resources
● Excellent communication skills (oral and written)
● Excellent organizational, programming, and leadership skills
● Ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently
● Pays close attention to detail
● Receptivity to learning, receiving direction, and collaborating with staff
● Ability to work well on a team
● Proficient use of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
● Familiarity with transfer student experience a plus
● Graphic design skills are a plus, particularly experience with Canva