University Recreation

Graduate Assistantships and Internships

General Information

This page will help you in your application process and provide more information on what it is like to be a graduate assistant, intern or program assistant in our department. Applications are typically submitted in spring for the following fall semester. Current openings vary every semester depending on returning staff and departmental needs. 

We are looking for people who have a growth mindset and are inquisitive in nature. People who will help our team reach new levels with innovative ideas and a desire to contribute to the betterment of the WMU community. We are seeking people who live a positive, active and healthy lifestyle and those who want to share these ideals with our students and community. 

Graduate Assistants who join our team will develop skills that are transferable to any career a future may hold. They will receive a well-rounded collegiate recreation experience and have a real opportunity to make an impact with students and make connections that will last for years to come. As our department transforms we are looking for people who are adaptable, creative, and lead with empathy to help us provide the best experience for students and our members.  

Candidates must possess strong communication skills and demonstrate related experiences to those outlined in our position description. We are also looking for people who believe in our departmental values and are willing to foster these on our campus. 

University Recreation Values

•Teamwork.
•Belonging.
•Growth.
•Responsibility.
•Well-being.

Past GA Testimonials

Current openings - Fall 2026

Fitness & Wellness Graduate Assistant 

Job Purpose or Summary

University Recreation Graduate Assistants for Fitness & Wellness work cooperatively with the Senior Associate Director for Well-being Programs in the supervision and administration of the GroupEx and F45 programs. Graduate Assistants will work collaboratively in the areas of program development and implementation to better serve the fitness and wellness needs of our university community.

General Responsibilities

University Recreation Graduate Assistants will:

  • Demonstrate applied knowledge and practical skills of Student Recreation Center programs and facility operations.
  • Demonstrate professional skills in communication, scheduling, reliability, and maintaining office hours for an average of 20 hours per work week.

Specific Responsibilities

University Recreation Graduate Assistants for Fitness & Wellness will assist in the administration of one or more of the following programs: GroupEx and F45 programs.

  • Assist in the coordination of instructor auditions/trainer interviews, hiring, training, evaluation, scheduling, and payroll of all Fitness and Wellness staff including GroupEx, F45 and Personal Trainers.
  • Instruct weekly GroupEx and F45 classes and or maintain Personal Training client load.
  • Assist with the implementation of the eight-week fitness instructor training program.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree from a four-year institution.
  • One year of experience teaching or training in one of the following programming areas: Personal Training, Group Fitness, Indoor Cycling, F45 or Wellness Coaching.
  • Possess First Aid, CPR, and AED certification or able to obtain within the first 30 days of starting the position.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills, leadership development, and the ability to cultivate leadership in others.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft programs.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a Health and Wellness related field such as, but not limited to, Exercise Science, Sport Management, Dietetics, Physical Education, Athletic Training, or Kinesiology.
  • Group Fitness and/or Personal Trainer certification through an accredited certifying agency such as the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA), American Council on Exercise (ACE), or National Strength Conditioning Association (NSCA).
  • Two or more years of experience as a Personal Trainer or Group Fitness instructor.

Graduate Assistant Benefits

  • 9 credit hours/semester for fall and spring semesters, free parking pass, and discount at bookstore.
  • Contract renewable for the second year.
  • Stipend based on 2025-26 rate of $14,751.

Completed application, resume, and cover letter should be mailed or emailed to:

WMU Student Recreation Center
Attn: Beth Northuis
1903 W. Michigan Avenue
Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5447

Office: (269) 387-3762 Email: @email

**For priority consideration please apply by Friday, February 27 at 5 p.m.**

Applications can be found at wmich.edu/rec/about/employment/assistantships

Application process

To apply, submit a cover letter, resume and completed application to the department. Priority consideration will be given to candidates that submit their application materials by Friday, Feb. 27 at 5 p.m.

Completed applications can be emailed to Beth Northuis, Senior Associate Director for Well-Being.

Or mailed to:

WMU Student Recreation Center
Attn: Beth Northuis
1903 W. Michigan Avenue
Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5447

Internship information

Current openings vary by semester depending on returning staff and departmental needs. If you are interested in an internship with University Recreation, please contact Beth Northuis, Senior Associate Director for Well-being.