Although being a graduate assistant at The University of Memphiscarries a lot of the work and stress of a full-time job, it doesnot carry all of the benefits when it comes to healthinsurance.
In addition to the 10 to 20 hours of work per week, graduateassistants are required to take at least a full class load andmaintain a minimum grade point average of 3.0.
"It can take up pretty much most of your time," said MikeManley, a 35-year-old seeking a graduate degree in counselingpsychology.
Manley, who does not have a job outside of his graduate work atThe University, pays $50 per month for coverage under the studenthealth insurance plan.
The Tennessee Board of Regents, The U of M's governing body,contracts Gerber Life Insurance Company to provide health insuranceto students in all of its colleges.
But Manly said while his insurance would cover "catastrophicinjuries like an auto accident," if he is sick or needs aspecialist he would have to pay for his visit out of his ownpocket.
The University pays for graduate assistants' tuition andprovides a monthly stipend, but the stipend would not cover manymedical bills, some assistants say.
Most graduate students under the age of 25 are still coveredunder their parents' insurance plans, but many graduate studentsolder than 25 require additional assistance. Other students rely ontheir spouses' health insurance through their job.
"Having more health insurance options for older students wouldbe helpful, particularly for students that have families," Manleysaid.
Janice Pazar, the new president of the Graduate StudentAssociation, said health insurance is a concern for many graduatestudents.
Calling it one of her "main concerns," Pazar said, "We are goingto see about getting more extensive insurance coverage for graduatestudents."
The University of Tennessee, which has its own governing body,decided only last year to provide its graduate, teaching andresearch assistants with free employee health insurance startingthis fall, according to the online edition of the Daily Beacon.
For additional information on health insurance through TheUniversity of Memphis, information packages are available areStudent Health Services, 678-2287.
