[jrutledge@umbc.edu]

UMBC doesn’t have a union for GAs. If a GA is doing field work away from campus (in another state or another country) they would be treated the same as someone doing work on campus. They would still be enrolled and submit the required completion of duties (used in place of timesheet since they do not have employee status) form. They are treated as though they are on travel and receive direct deposit into their US bank account.

Can you clarify what you mean by “abroad as workers rather than students” here? I assume they are in regular contact with their faculty research mentor while away. Couldn’t they track their time in a manner that is similar to the way it is done when they are “working” as a research assistant on campus?