Bobcat RISE Independent Living Assistant

Bobcat RISE Independent Living Assistant (ILA) is a student staff employee of Bobcat RISE, a student program supporting inclusive postsecondary education. The ILA assumes major responsibilities in the student apartments for developing a welcoming and inclusive environment conducive to healthy living, academic excellence, and personal growth. 

Bobcat RISE ILAs work in conjunction with TXST RAs in Balcones by providing an additional layer of support for students who may need assistance navigating independent living situations including maintaining the space, taking care of personal chores, and navigating new college relationships and social situations. 

The student apartments are typically grouped into four private bedrooms with a common living area. Each person has their own bathroom, a shared kitchen/dining area, and shared laundry facilities. 

The ILA will have a private bedroom and private bathroom in a 4-person apartment, in which one of the other tenants may be a Bobcat RISE student. The ILA will receive room and board and a stipend. 

ILAs are on duty during long semesters while students are in session. The ILA position will add an extra layer of guidance for our students in addition to the traditional TXST RAs assigned to their dorm area. The Bobcat RISE ILA will also provide extra guidance to students during less structured times (i.e., evenings and weekends). 

Major duties include: 

• Helping students by teaching and reinforcing essential life skills which may include basic budgeting, time management, household chores, and other independent living skills. Bobcat RISE staff will assist the ILA to develop ideas for supporting students if needed. 
• Assisting students in accessing campus and community resources, such as healthcare services, counseling, and academic support.  
• Encouraging self-advocacy while providing support in navigating university systems and social environments.  
• Maintaining accurate records and communicating with program staff to ensure coordinated support. 

Required Qualifications 

• Must currently be enrolled at Texas State with a minimum overall GPA of 2.5 
• Must be enrolled for Fall 2026 and planning for Spring 2027 courses at Texas State University 
• Must be available to attend RA training TBD 
• Must be available to move into Bobcat RISE apartment by August 13 (tentative).
• Must live on campus for duration of position 
• Must be in good academic and disciplinary standing with the University 
• Must be available as needed during the daytime, nights, and weekends; typically from 5 pm to 8 am on the weekdays and around the clock on the weekends to address student concerns (not required to be awake, but available for support--more information provided at interview). You will have one evening off per week arranged for the semester at the beginning of each semester.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Previously lived on campus at Texas State University 
• Previous experience as a Residence Assistant, Orientation Leader, or Cat Camp counselor 
• Professional or lived experience with persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities 
• Major field of study in special education, developmental education, student affairs in higher education, social work, psychology, or a related discipline