Office of Residential Life - Resident Assistant Selection 2008

Resident Assistant Selection 2008

Frequently asked Questions

What does the RA selection process entail?

There are three parts to the process:
- The application which includes essays and two letters of recommendation. Applications are available in the Residential Life office starting January 28, 2008. You can also obtain an application from at the Information Tables located in the Miley Lobby (January 28th – February 1st). Applications are due February 22, 2008 by 5:00 pm.
- The Group Interview is schedule for the morning of Saturday, March 1st. During that time candidates will participate in various activities with a group of fellow candidates. Attendance is mandatory.
- The Individual Interview is schedule for the afternoon of Saturday, March 1st. Candidates will be scheduled for a 30 minute interview with a profession staff member from Residential Life as well as 3 or 4 RA’s. They will receive that time in the morning.

What compensation do the RA’s receive?

RA’s, receive free room (single) and board, and a bi-weekly stipend of $50. The compenstation 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 Financial Aid Office (x 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 RA’s. There are 4 AC’s 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.

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.

RA’s have weekly staff meetings with their AC’s.
They have biweekly one-on-one meetings with their AC in the Residential Life Office.
They have to be on duty 15 nights a month
RA class every other week = 1 credit

Can I hold another job on/off campus if I am an RA?

RA’s 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 case is evaluated individually, but your Judicial Record is reviewed and 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 Residential Life Office 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, advisors, coaches, RA’s…..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 9 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 can’t hire because we don’t have enough positions to offer. In either case our 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).