Each year the English Graduate Program offers a number of competitively awarded graduate assistantships that involve teaching, tutoring, and/or related work. Graduate assistants’ duties vary depending on both the situation of the student and the needs of the department, but all GAs are expected to devote twenty hours per week to their assistantship work. Generally, GAs work in the Writing Center and either teach or train to teach introductory courses. In certain circumstances, GAs will be asked to perform other duties related to tutoring, teaching, or departmental activities. First-year GAs are required to take E611 in their first semester and to have their teaching observed in their second semester.

At present these assistantships carry a $10,000 salary and full tuition remission, though annual budgetary changes may affect this compensation. Assistantships are awarded for one year; students may reapply for a second appointment. Second-year GAs typically teach one course per term in addition to their other obligations.

The Application for Graduate Assistantship may be downloaded from the website of the WSU Office of Graduate Studies. This application should be sent to the Director of Graduate Studies in English, 3 rd Floor, Minné Hall, Winona State University, Winona, MN 55987. The receipt deadline is March 1. Assistantship awards must be accepted by April 15.

Assistantship applications must include three letters of recommendation that speak to applicants’ academic strengths and to their promise as teachers in training.

As of the March 1, 2007 deadline, letters of recommendation will be part of the Application for Admission. Those who are applying for assistantships as well must have their recommendations address not only their academic aptitude, but also their potential to become effective teachers.