The Graduate Assistant position that accompanies the Dottie Sink Sykes Fellowship includes assisting the Dottie Sink Sykes Distinguished Professor in research project work. Current and former GAs have conducted research projects in collaboration with this faculty member as well, such as an investigation of how both young adult and senior adult identity is shaped by and shapes musical preferences, or an investigation into the number and kind of conference presentations on music therapy palliative care for LGBTQ+ clients. The Graduate Assistant also helps with some work with undergraduate Bachelor of Music Education students through videotaping teaching demonstrations, and by providing feedback to academic efforts. The Graduate Assistant develops scholarly writing and research skills such as interviewing and content analysis. Our current Dottie Sink Sykes Distinguished Professor is Dr. Katherine Strand.