SUNY Plattsburgh offers graduate assistantships for well-qualified, full-time matriculated
graduate students. These positions provide educational and professional value to your
graduate experience while also offering tuition compensation as well as a stipend.
Assistantship Positions
Your application for graduate admission must be complete before you will be considered
for an assistantship.
Due to the specific nature of the work experience, many graduate assistantships require
enrollment in a related academic program. The positions relevant to each program are
outlined below.
The 2026–27 graduate assistantship application cycle is now open. The 2025–26 application
cycle is closed.
The process and timeline for application review and selection for the position(s)
listed below is determined by the supervisor listed in the position description. For
more information please contact the supervisor directly.
The process and timeline for application review and selection for the position(s)
listed below is determined by the supervisor listed in the position description. For
more information please contact the supervisor directly.
The process and timeline for application review and selection for the position(s)
listed below is determined by the supervisor listed in the position description. For
more information please contact the supervisor directly.
The process and timeline for application review and selection for the position(s)
listed below is determined by the supervisor listed in the position description. For
more information please contact the supervisor directly.
The process and timeline for application review and selection for the position(s)
listed below is determined by the supervisor listed in the position description. For
more information please contact the supervisor directly.
The process and timeline for application review and selection for the position(s)
listed below is determined by the supervisor listed in the position description. For
more information please contact the supervisor directly.
The application for graduate assistantships is included in the application for graduate
admission. There is no separate application.
Review the eligibility and qualifications requirements below to determine whether
a graduate assistantship is right for you.
Review each graduate assistantship opportunity posted on this page to determine which
position(s) you wish to be considered for. The list is subject to change.
Complete your graduate admissions application and submit all required documents for
your program. Indicate your desired graduate assistantship position(s) when requested
on the form.
Upload of your resume and one single cover letter is required. If you wish to apply
to more than one position, you may wish to consider a generic cover letter.
You must have a completed graduate program application on file before you will be
considered for an assistantship.
New Speech Language Pathology Applicants
Applicants using the CSDCAS application to apply to SUNY Plattsburgh’s speech language
pathology program are directed to apply for all graduate assistantships using the
instructions posted below for returning graduate students.
Returning Graduate Students
This information applies to returning graduate students seeking a new, first-time
graduate assistantship appointment. If you currently hold a graduate assistantship
and wish to renew it for the coming year, please review the “Renewing Your Assistantship”
section below.
Steps:
Review the eligibility and qualifications requirements below to determine whether
a graduate assistantship is right for you.
Review each graduate assistantship opportunity posted on this page to determine which
position(s) you wish to be considered for. The list is subject to change.
Complete the graduate assistantship application below to indicate which position(s)
you are interested in applying to.
Graduate Assistantship applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until each
position is filled.
While there are no deadlines for applying for a graduate assistantship, some academic
programs have firm deadlines relative to admissions. Please contact the academic department
of your program for more information.
Occasionally a position may become available for the January enrollment term. Please
email [email protected] to inquire.
Graduate assistants must be full-time, matriculated students (enrolled in 12+ credit
hours) at the start of the appointment period. A graduate student who withdraws or
reduces enrollment from full-time to part-time status may jeopardize the stipend and
tuition scholarship which affects tuition liability.
With permission, exceptions may be granted to the full-time status requirement, allowing
a graduate assistant to enroll in 9 credit hours if the assistantship is directly
related to the educational program, or when the assistantship is housed within their
academic department. To request a reduced course load, please complete the Graduate Assistant Reduced Course Load Request form.
Remote work is not permitted. Graduate assistants can be enrolled in main campus or
online programs but they must be able to fulfill their work obligation in person on
our main campus in Plattsburgh, N.Y.
Students must maintain good academic standing.
Graduate assistants cannot be otherwise employed at SUNY Plattsburgh. This includes
part-time professional roles and on-campus student employment.
Assistantship opportunities are open to new graduate students, as well as returning
and continuing students.
Graduate assistantships are either full time (20 hours per week) or part time (10
hours per week).
Compensation includes an in-state tuition scholarship and a stipend.
Graduate assistants, in addition to their status as students, are employees of the
State University of New York and are represented by the Graduate Student Employees
Union (GSEU). The terms and conditions of their employment are determined through
collective bargaining and are enumerated in the agreement between GSEU and the State
University of New York.
Typically, positions are awarded with a fall start date, and a two-semester appointment
(one academic year).
Continuing students need to communicate with their supervisor about renewing their
position. Assistantships may be renewed for up to two years after the initial appointment,
depending on availability of the position and approval of the assistantship supervisor.
“I’m drawn to this field because of a deep empathy and curiosity for others navigating
the waves of life. What feels most meaningful to me is sitting with people in their
experiences and supporting them in feeling seen, understood, and a little less alone
in what they’re carrying.
“I chose SUNY Plattsburgh because of its emphasis on direct internship experience
and the warmth I felt from the staff and program culture. It is a clear that this
is a community that genuinely supports students and embraces their passion for the
field.”
“I was accepted into a program near my hometown, but I still chose to relocate and
attend SUNY Plattsburgh because it was clearly a better fit. I recognized that the
faculty would provide an excellent clinical education and valuable hands-on experience.
During the interview process, the professors were kind, professional and highly knowledgeable
in their field. SUNY Plattsburgh also offered opportunities for research involvement,
which was important to me. In addition, the campus is beautiful, and I appreciate
the small-town atmosphere.
“In the future, I look forward to helping clients become the best version of themselves
and help alleviate their emotional pain. I also have aspirations to teach college
courses and possibly conduct research.”
GA Position: Community Director in Community Development
“Between the many opportunities through field placement and the combined education
and special education certification, I knew SUNY Plattsburgh was the right place for
me. Helping shape the next generation of students is a meaningful and rewarding experience.
Creating a safe and supportive learning environment where students feel valued and
encouraged is something I believe is essential for all learners.
“The reason I chose the graduate community director position is because of all my
experience with being a CA for many years prior. Due to my many years of experience
and knowing that I could still make a larger impact is what led me to want this job.
I look forward to fostering a beautiful dorm life community across a larger portion
of campus.”
GA Position: Shine On! Education Outreach Coordinator
“I chose to do my graduate program at SUNY Plattsburgh because I had a great experience
in the undergraduate program here. I loved doing research and being involved with
the psychology department in any way possible. Since I already had built great connections
with the professors, I couldn't think of a better school to attend for graduate school!
I also love Plattsburgh’s location and I think the campus is beautiful!
“I chose school psychology because I love problem-solving. Everyday is different as
a school psychologist and the work feels extremely rewarding at the end of the day.
I also really enjoy making a difference in children’s lives. Not to mention, the schedule
is great!”
GA Position: Natural Resources and Ecology Teaching Assistant
“I came to SUNY Plattsburgh as an undergrad because of the great Center for Earth
and Environmental Science and because of the location. I enjoyed classes and research
here, and decided to switch to a combined 4+1 program to complete my master’s degree
here as well!
“I chose the field of ecology because I wanted to do something that makes a positive
impact on the world, and I love being outside and learning about nature.”
“I chose SUNY Plattsburgh because of my positive undergraduate experience in the communication
sciences and disorders department. The small class sizes really allowed me to connect
with faculty and classmates and build strong relationships. I always felt my classes
were well-organized, and that my professors truly wanted me to succeed. I know that
my graduate education and hands-on clinical experience will prepare me to thrive in
my future career.
“My passion for speech-language pathology comes not only from the fact I can help
others, but because I can make a positive, direct, and lasting impact on people’s
lives. I believe proper communication is vital to life — not only for expressing wants
and needs, but to build meaningful connections with others. I am so excited to be
able to watch my clients progress and grow as we work together.”
Position Held: Speech and Hearing Center Graduate Assistant
“I chose to pursue my graduate studies at SUNY Plattsburgh because of the welcoming
community, supportive faculty and the program’s strong focus on hands-on learning.
As someone passionate about working with people in the community, I was drawn to the
opportunities for real-world experience and collaboration. The SUNY Plattsburgh environment
feels like the right place to grow academically and personally, and I’m so excited
to be apart of a program that genuinely cares about its students and the populations
we aim to serve.
“I love the field of speech-language pathology because it is such a truly rewarding
profession. Being able to work with clients across the lifespan to help them improve
their communication skills is something I am very passionate about, as I believe that
the ability to convey one’s thoughts, wants, and needs is essential for everyone.”
“My undergraduate experience at SUNY Plattsburgh exceeded expectations. So, when selecting
a graduate program, I knew this university would continue to best support my personal
and professional growth. My inspiration to pursue a clinical mental health counseling
degree stems from a lifelong passion for learning about individuals and their experiences.
I appreciate how the CMHC program’s scholar-practitioner model integrates intensive
studies with diverse fieldwork opportunities. Likewise, my supportive cohort and faculty
have enhanced each step of my graduate journey. In my free time, I enjoy baking treats
to share with others or relaxing with a captivating novel.”
“I firmly believe in going wherever the wind takes me and it took me to Plattsburgh
in 2019 after graduating high school. While it was a little far from home, it is a
place that has allowed me to grow personally, mentally, emotionally, and most importantly
academically. After obtaining my B.S. in psychology, the wind didn’t want to take
me anywhere else so I decided to stay to pursue my M.S. in clinical mental health
counseling. Being a Muslim African American woman, I want to be a role model for my
community and show them that there will always be space for them in the therapeutic
world. Shoutout to Plattsburgh for always providing me with amazing opportunities
and having my best interest at heart!”
I chose to come to SUNY Plattsburgh because, despite my prior education (M.S. in clinical
psychology), I needed a diverse and inclusive education to better cater to my clients.
SUNY Plattsburgh was the perfect choice because it aligned with my academic and career
goals. My professors’ genuine passion and joy towards teaching the program during
our first interaction sealed the deal for me. Additionally, because SUNY Plattsburgh
is part of the broader SUNY system, it is well-regarded for its quality education
and research opportunities, which will help me secure quality work experience and
recognition from employers, to excel in my future. I am the graduate assistant for
Accessibility Resources Office and have been a practicing counselor for students and young adults with focus on
relationship dynamic issues (romantic, friendship, family), working with college stress,
transition from education to maintaining work-life balance and adulting struggles.
“I have a bachelors in psychology and am currently pursuing MS in Clinical Mental
Health Counseling. I chose SUNY Plattsburgh because the program I wanted to pursue
offers abundant chances for learning and development. SUNY Plattsburgh is renowned
for its outstanding academic programs and faculty. Not to mention how welcoming and
encouraging the community is. I am happy to be a part of SUNY Plattsburgh's dedication
to diversity and really value it.”
“I knew I wanted to work within the counseling field and combining my knowledge from
my bachelor’s in human development and family relations with my interest in counseling,
I felt this was the best fit for me. In my personal time, I enjoy spending time with
my family and friends, and I also enjoy crocheting and playing with my dog.”
“I'm a graduate assistant in the academic advising office as well as a community advocate
on campus. I chose Plattsburgh because I completed my bachelor’s degree in psychology
here as well as worked in admissions. SUNY Plattsburgh is an educational home for
me, so I thought why not pursue another degree? I chose clinical mental health counseling
as my focus because it’s new, exciting and a versatile career. I look forward to gaining
knowledge and making connections in the years to come!”
“Reflecting on my undergraduate education, I recognize my applied learning experiences
at SUNY Plattsburgh were the most transformative. My research apprenticeships encouraged
me to exercise my experimental mindset and personalize my studies. SUNY Plattsburgh’s
emphasis on collaboration was another significant factor that contributed to my success.
I am honored to fulfill my graduate assistantship position, which will offer a unique
combination of professional and educational experiences. I am confident that the counselor
education department at SUNY Plattsburgh will meet my current needs and help me achieve
my career objectives, including obtaining licensure and assisting individuals in navigating
the complex terrain of their mental health.”
My decision to continue my academic journey at SUNY Plattsburgh was influenced by
the robust curriculum and faculty expertise in the field of data analytics. Additionally,
the university’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive academic community
resonated with me, making it an ideal environment for my personal and professional
growth. SUNY Plattsburgh’s picturesque campus and its proximity to Montreal and Lake
Placid further enhance the overall college experience. I’m excited to build upon my
undergraduate foundation in business administration and management, and further develop
my skills in data analytics in this enriching academic environment.
“I chose SUNY Plattsburgh because of its phenomenal data analytics master’s Program.
Additionally, Plattsburgh is where I have grown up and have loved it. Being back home
with family and friends while obtaining my master’s degree is something that I am
looking forward to. I am so excited to see what this next chapter will bring.”
“My internship with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection gave me
a passion for freshwater conservation and I chose the field of aquatic ecology because
of the importance and beauty of our natural water resources. I chose SUNY Plattsburgh
because of the opportunity to do research on Lake Champlain and continue my education
at a school I felt fit me as a person. In my free time, I enjoy playing and watching
soccer, going on hikes, and spending time with friends and family.”
“I chose Plattsburgh to pursue my master’s in natural resources and ecology because
of the amazing opportunities to work in the Lake Champlain Research Institute. My passion is studying large lakes and how their ecosystem is affected following
storm events and our changing environment. Growing up in northeast Ohio, Lake Erie
began my passion for large lake studies and this position fits into it perfectly.
One of my favorite things to do in my personal time is take my dog to the beach.”
Over the summer Lydia will intern with the Adirondack Park Agency where she will be
delineating wetlands and assisting with GIS data collection. For her fellowship this
past semester, Lydia worked on a research project studying the paleoecology of the
Altona Flat Rock pine barrens. For this project she collected a sediment core from
a wetland at the Altona Flat Rock. Sample material from the core was radiocarbon dated,
with the bottom of the core dating to ~7,500 before present. Lydia then extracted
pollen grains from the sediment, which can be identified and used to reconstruct the
vegetation history of the site. Lydia was awarded the New York Botanical Association
Research Grant for this work and presented her research on campus at the Sigma XI
Research Symposium and the CEES Research Symposium. She also presented her research
at the New York Wetlands Forum and the Northeastern Natural History Conference.
“I chose SUNY Plattsburgh because of the natural resources and ecology program and
the potential for hands-on experience within the LCRI. The department was very welcoming,
supportive and knowledgeable and it felt like a natural fit. I have opportunities
to work closely with helpful peers and professors and do interesting research that
aligns with my passions. As someone who enjoys running, mountain biking, swimming,
and skiing, the proximity to Lake Champlain as well as the Adirondack Mountains was
very appealing to me and was one of the reasons I chose Plattsburgh.”
“I chose the field of school psychology because I have always enjoyed psychology but
had a difficult time narrowing my interests down to one area of focus. With school
psychology, I am able to engage in a wide variety of practices and provide needed
services to children who may not otherwise have access. SUNY Plattsburgh was my choice
because I was excited about the hands-on opportunities provided early on in the program.
I also liked the idea of spending a couple of years near where I grew up, after living
away for awhile. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and getting
outside.”
“I really loved working with the psychology department during my undergraduate years
and engaging in different types of research; as soon as I saw that SUNY Plattsburgh
offered the school psychology program, I immediately knew I wanted to apply. In the
fall, I will be the graduate assistant for the psychology Shine On! program as their
outreach coordinator. I worked as a mentor for Shine On! Conference for the last two
years and I’m very excited to take on this role during my first year! In my free time,
I like to dance, read, go on walks, and hang out with my friends and family.
“I chose SUNY Plattsburgh because of the school psychology master’s program. Additionally,
after spending the last several years visiting family in the area, I have grown to
love Plattsburgh and the surrounding area. I am looking forward to my future holds
in the area.”
“I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology at SUNY Plattsburgh and chose to apply
for the school psychology master’s program. I was drawn to school psychology because
I liked the idea of advocating for people who may have difficulty doing so themselves.
I love that this program offers first-hand experience working with students of all
ages and abilities to help us fully develop the skills we need to be successful. I
applied for this assistantship so that I can do my part to help others be successful
as well.”
“I have always loved working with students with developmental disabilities, which
is something I’ve done for years starting in my hometown in La Crescenta, California
when I would volunteer at my brother and sister’s school. I was very interested in
attending SUNY Plattsburgh as the school psychology graduate students have opportunities
to work in the Nexus program with students with developmental disabilities, and they
place a major emphasis on gaining first hand internship experience throughout the
graduate program.”
“After obtaining my B.A. in psychology from McGill University, I completed my certificate
in communication sciences and disorders from SUNY Plattsburgh. I worked in a special
education elementary school and am now a speech-language pathologist assistant (S-LPA).
In the fall, I will be returning to the speech-language pathology master’s program
due to the positive experience that I had with the certificate program, including
a supportive and caring environment. The quality of education assures me that I will
be equipped with the proper tools and strategies to become an amazing S-LP.”
“I chose SUNY Plattsburgh because of the opportunities to do clinical work in many
settings as well as the close connection between faculty and students that was apparent
when I visited. I also love being in Plattsburgh as it is close to friends and family
and the beautiful Adirondack mountains. I am now looking forward to being one of the
new graduate assistants for the CSD department.”
“I chose to do my graduate program at SUNY Plattsburgh because I loved the idea of
having my undergrad degree in general education and my master’s in special education
in only five years! I love watching children learn and grow and I hope that each year
I can make a positive impact on the young minds that surround me! In my free time,
I enjoy reading, painting, going to the movies, and taking walks!”
“I have been so proud of the work I have done here at SUNY Plattsburgh, along with
the connections I have made with my cohort, my professors and in the field. I chose
childhood and special education because representation really matters and I was able
to make so many connections with students that made me just love being in the classroom
— having those connections made me realize how much you can make an impact on someone’s
life. In my free time, I enjoy participating in High Voltage Dance Factory, hanging
out with friends and going to the beach.”
Shannon is the lead student in co-designing and conducting a math intervention study
with Dr. Bonati and another graduate student. The math intervention is called Modified
Schema-Based Instruction (MSBI) aimed at teaching young adults with intellectual disability
and autism to solve percent change problems, such as solving a problem to calculate
tip or tax when making a purchase. During the spring semester, she delivered the intervention
meeting with the participants multiple times per week on campus and at a local coffee
shop where they could implement the skills learned where they are needed in real life.
Shannon is currently analyzing the data and co-authoring an article to publish the
study findings with plans to submit the manuscript to a peer-reviewed journal this
summer.
Lydia Bruno, Class of ’28
Anne Schaffer, Class of ’28
Rosa Lee Ray, Class of ’27
Emily Gangi, Class of ’27
Zoe Fox, Class of ’27
Jenna Libutti, Class of ’28
Molly Snyder, Class of ’27
Christine Parmeter, Class of ’26
Fatoumata Toure
Zainab Kapasi
Samruddhi Bhosale
Michele Bogensberger
Jenica Charles
Christine Parmeter
Dhir Jain
Morgan Brunet
John Hanosek, Class of ’27
Miranda Rummell
Lydia Harvey
Allison Morrow
Kira Ducote, Class of ’27
Emily Gangi
Jordyn Cortez
Kaitlyn Pierce
Kristen Crowder
Emily Shashoua
Katherine Zimmerman
Mackenzie Fletcher, Class of ’26
Juliana Coppola, Class of ’26
Shannon Breen