Position Summary

The Fall ‘25 Research Assistant will play a central role in advancing Vanderbilt’s commitment to inquiry, communication, and civil discourse by guiding students’ engagement with the new First-Year Summer Assignment and related programming. This position will design and lead workshops that help first-year students reflect on their interview experiences, strengthen writing and communication skills, and engage critically with diverse perspectives. The Research Assistant will also expand opportunities for students to benefit from the Lawson Lecture, while curating and promoting resources in journalism, storytelling, and media studies. In addition, the role will research and recommend new curricular and co-curricular opportunities, identify and connect potential speakers in journalism and news media, and foster connections with Vanderbilt alumni working in these fields. Through these efforts, the Research Assistant will enhance students’ ability to communicate effectively, think critically, and participate in meaningful dialogue.

About the Work Unit

The Office of Undergraduate Education (OUE), within the Office of the Provost and led by the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education, empowers students to enrich their academic journeys through transformative educational opportunities. Serving more than 7,000 undergraduates, OUE provides programs and resources that inspire curiosity, foster academic exploration, and prepare students to make meaningful contributions during their time at Vanderbilt and beyond.

Grounded in our mission of advancing transformative education, we support students through immersive experiences, connection and community, inquiry and innovation, global engagement, and empowered learning. By offering opportunities that extend beyond the classroom, OUE encourages students to generate new knowledge, pursue bold ideas, and discover solutions to complex challenges.

Key Functions and Expected Performance

Explore the submissions and assess the impact and future potential of the new First-Year Summer Assignment.

Develop and conduct a workshop series to guide first-year students through a discussion of their interview experiences and a critique of their written submissions, and to help students develop and strengthen related strategies and skills in interviewing, writing, and civil discourse.

Develop opportunities for first-year students to deeply engage with and benefit from the Lawson Lecture.

Research and aggregate the existing journalism and storytelling-related curricula and resources available to Vanderbilt undergraduates in a research document and identify new related curricula and programming opportunities that might be valuable to offer.

Research possible speakers in the field of journalism and news media who could engage meaningfully with Vanderbilt undergraduates and faculty.

Explore and connect with top talent in the journalism and news media industry who are Vanderbilt alumni. 

Supervisory Relationships

This position does not have supervisory responsibility 

Education and Certifications

A high school diploma or equivalent and current enrollment in an undergraduate degree program is necessary or recent graduate student. 

Enrollment or Graduate at Vanderbilt University is strongly preferred.

Experience and Skills

Strong written and verbal communication skills are necessary.

Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines independently is necessary.

Collaborative experience in student leadership, mentorship programs, or alumni engagement is strongly preferred.

Attention to detail, organizational skills, and responsiveness to feedback are necessary.