The Department of Communication is seeking two Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) to serve as Mentor GTAs for COMM 1020, a freshman-level course. Selected candidates will complete a structured mentorship training program and then support and guide a cohort of novice graduate instructors throughout the academic term. Career Readiness Competencies Adjust tone and approach based on audience (e.g., peers vs. supervisors). Present ideas or updates in a clear and organized manner. Identify when additional information is needed before making a decision. Break down tasks into steps to complete work more efficiently. Maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information. Complete mentorship training designed to build skills in coaching and supporting novice instructors Learn and apply the GSIOP (Graduate Student Instructor Observation Protocol) to conduct formal teaching observations and provide constructive feedback Practice mentoring and instructional coaching techniques using Virtual Reality headsets via Ovation Software to simulate realistic engagement scenarios with novice instructors Plan, schedule, and facilitate regular meetings with an assigned group of novice GTAs to discuss teaching strategies, classroom management, and course-specific concerns Serve as a point of contact and resource for novice instructors navigating their first teaching experiences Provide ongoing, constructive feedback to support the professional growth of mentee instructor Current graduate student in good standing, eligible for a GTA appointment Prior experience teaching or assisting with

COMM 1020

preferred Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills Willingness to participate in required training sessions, including VR-based practice modules Interest in instructional coaching, mentorship, or teaching development Includes attendance at mentorship training sessions and ongoing weekly commitments for observations and mentee group meetings throughout the semester.