Qualifications

Resident Assistant
The Resident Assistant (RA) position is arguably the most responsible student job on our campus. It directly supports the academic and developmental mission of the University. RAs serve to facilitate a cooperative, considerate group living environment and to promote learning in the house and hall community. They help residents with personal and academic concerns, and help resolve any group conflicts which may arise. They promote and enforce standards for appropriate behavior in individuals and in their house communities.

RAs are expected to develop a sense of community by initiating and implementing social and educational activities and programs. They serve as information resources about residence hall and campus life. Resident Assistants are vital members of the Residential Life team, working with Resident Directors, maintenance and custodial staff, support staff and management staff to serve our residents’ needs.

Most of all, RAs are expected to be people who respect and care about the rights and dignity of all people, who challenge and support growth in themselves and others, and who strive to create a welcoming, positive living and learning environment for all residents.

The most successful Resident Assistants, and those who seem to enjoy the position most, share common characteristics. They demonstrate personal warmth, social and emotional maturity, the ability to develop meaningful relationships, openness to new experiences, and flexibility and capacity to deal with change. Resident Assistants should also have patience, a sense of humor, the ability to communicate without showing favoritism or prejudice, and a belief in the value of every person.

Research indicates, though, that RAs most favorably evaluated by their residents are those who are there – available on the house and in the hall. The RA position requires a significant commitment of time, talent and effort. Therefore, Resident Assistants should truly believe in the value of what they are doing, believe in the ability of people to change, and ultimately, believe in their own ability to make a difference.