Becky Bernard, Resident Assistant
"Being a Resident Assistant is very interesting - there is so much responsibility. I was nervous at first, but it has been so rewarding that I plan to do it again next year. I love living in Miley and have a great group of girls on my floor. I've learned so much from them - we're like one big family."
FAQ's
What does the RA selection process entail?
There are three parts to the process:
- The Application: Includes essays and two letters of recommendation. Applications are available in the Office of Residential Life beginning in January. You can also obtain an application at the selection information tables and information sessions (check the selection timeline for exact times and locations).
- The Group Interview: During this process you will participate in various activities with a group of fellow candidates. This takes place the morning of "Interview Day" and attendance is mandatory (check the selection timeline for this year's date).
- The Individual Interview: The afternoon of "Interview Day" you will be scheduled for a 30-minute interview with a professional staff member from Residential Life as well as three or four RAs. You will receive that time the morning of your individual interview. Times are scheduled at random between 12:30 and 5 p.m., but candidates can request times if they anticipate a conflict. Attendance is mandatory (check the selection timeline for this year's date).
Do I have to attend an information session?
You are not required to attend an information sessions, but we highly recommend that you do.
What compensation do the RAs receive?
RAs receive free room (single) and board, and a biweekly stipend of $50. The compensation package is worth approximately $10,000.
Will the compensation I receive affect my financial aid?
It can affect your financial aid. Each individual's financial aid package is different. To determine if it will affect your situation specifically, please contact the Office of Financial Aid at Ext. 2901.
What GPA is required to be an RA?
At the time of application you must have a 2.25 cumulative GPA.
Who is the RA's supervisor?
An Area Coordinator (AC) directly supervises RAs. There are four ACs who are professional live-in staff members and they are supervised by the director of residential life.
When is RA training?
The most important training is fall training, which starts two weeks before classes in August. But RA training is a continual process that starts with spring training in April after you are hired. Additional training happens throughout the academic year. For example, you will be required to register and attend an RA class, which is a one-credit academic course that meets biweekly, and participate in winter training before the spring semester begins. All formal trainings are mandatory, especially fall training in August.
If I have a conflict, can I miss training or be late for it?
No. Attending RA training is a requirement for holding the position. However, if special situations arise, permission must be gained through the director of residential life.
What time requirements does an RA have on a regular basis?
- RAs have weekly staff meetings with their ACs.
- They have biweekly one-on-one meetings with their AC in the Office of Residential Life.
- They have to be on duty 15 nights a month.
- RA class every other week (RAs receive one academic credit for RA class).
Can I hold another job on/off campus if I am an RA?
RAs who desire to work another job must have prior approval from their AC and can work no more than 10 hours a week. You cannot hold a work study position, and the RA job has to be your primary commitment.
Can I be an RA and an athlete?
Yes, but both roles require a large amount of commitment. We ask that your job as an RA comes before everything other than academics. You should discuss your intentions to be an RA with your coach before applying.
Can I still be an RA if I have been written up?
Each candidate is evaluated individually. Your judicial record is reviewed and you will be asked during the interview about any incidents. It is a factor in our decision.
Can I choose what building I want to be in?
You have an opportunity to share your preferences on where you think you would thrive best during the individual interview. Ultimately, the RA's placement is determined by the Office of Residential Life and is based on the needs of the building. Our selection process allows us to get a good idea of where you would fit.
Who can be a reference for me?
College professors, employers, advisers, coaches, RAs … anyone who can discuss your ability to work with other people can be used as references. Your parents, relatives and friends cannot be used.
Do I already need to know how to confront people or deal with emergencies?
No previous skills are required to be an RA. All staff members are thoroughly trained on any potential situation before the academic year starts.
How many programs (or RA planned events) do I need to do?
You are required to do nine programs in the academic year for your floor or building.
What happens if I do not get selected for a position?
You are welcome to reapply during our next selection process. We will also offer alternate positions to a group of qualified candidates who we can't hire because we don't have enough positions to offer. In either case, your application will stay on file and will be considered if any positions become available after the main selection process ends (with alternates having priority consideration).