Becoming a GRA

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What do I need to know about being a GRA?

Applying to become a GRA is a major life decision, not simply because of the impacts you will have on the lives of students at MIT, but because of the impact this position will have on your life. What follows are some commonly asked questions about the GRA position. As you will find, some questions will only be able to be answered once you have started the interview process and you are meeting with particular communities. However, if you do have a question you would like us to help clarify before engaging in the interview process, please contact us at beagra@mit.edu.

MIT Graduate Student Applicants	Eligible for House or FSILG GRA role	Must have 1 semester at MIT	International Students can apply (see International Student Information)	Partners Welcome	Mandatory training (will update with dates for 2024)
Non-MIT Graduate Student Applicants	Eligible for FSILG GRA role	Must be enrolled full time in a graduate program	International Students can not apply	Partners Welcome	Mandatory training (will update with dates for 2024)

We had RAs at my undergraduate institution. Are those the same thing as GRAs?

GRAs are MIT graduate students who serve as live-in mentors to their undergraduate residential communities. A GRA provides study breaks and community-building opportunities, and serves as a first line of support for student in emergencies. GRAs are different from RAs in that they are not required to conduct rounds and have different expectations regarding establishing community standards.

How many students will I be responsible for?

This varies based on community, but it can range from 15 - 60.

What is the minimum weekly time commitment?

GRAs are generally expected to spend about 10 hours a week related to their GRA position. This varies greatly depending on the week, based on student concerns, programs, etc. GRAs should check with individual communities to understand how often the GRA meets and how often GRAs are expected to plan study breaks.

If I am hired as a GRA, will I need to attend training?

You (and your partner if applicable) will be required to complete all annual and supplemental training requirements. Training and some house teams/clusters may hold team training sessions that are in-person or online. All GRAs will be required to attend in-person training sessions typically held during GRA Training week in mid-August.

How does time off work?

GRAs are expected to check in with their supervisors to request time away in advance. GRAs are expected to generally be around when classes are in session, but are certainly able to take time for personal commitments, conferences, etc. GRAs are expected to be available to work during the fall and spring semesters, as well as during IAP.

Are GRAs a confidential resource? What about Mandatory Reporting?

While GRAs may be a private resource for students, they are never confidential. If a GRA is made aware of information regarding a student that requires follow-up, they have an obligation to share that information with the house team, and in some cases, other campus offices. Additionally, in some context, GRAs function as mandatory reporters, in which they are legally required to share information with the appropriate campus office. More information on privacy, confidentiality, and mandatory reporting will be provided during training.

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