What is a resident assistant in college?

Resident Assistants (RAs) are undergraduate or graduate student staff members who live in the residence halls. RAs receive free housing and a meal plan in exchange for their work in the halls. The decision to become an RA is not one that should be made lightly. It is a demanding, challenging, and rewarding position.

What is the role of a resident assistant?

Duties and Responsibilities of an RA. Overall, your job is to create a comfortable, safe and supportive atmosphere for the residents in student housing, as well as to help them interact well with their dorm mates and adjust to campus life overall.

How much do RA get paid?

One of the most appealing reasons for students to become an RA is a significant discount on housing. Many colleges pay RAs with free or discounted room and board, sometimes even including food from the cafeteria. Compensation can range from $3,000 to $10,000.

What skills should a resident assistant have?

Resident Assistant Qualifications/Skills:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to get along with residents of various cultures and backgrounds.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent leadership and public speaking skills.
• Proven organization and logistical skills.

What makes a good resident assistant?

RAs should also possess patience, a sense of humor, strong communication skills and the ability to complete paperwork in a timely manner.

Can RA be friends with residents?

You won’t automatically become BFFs with the other RAs. Not everyone is going to be best friends. But even if you don’t get along with someone, you have to put aside your personal feelings and establish some sort of connection with every RA so you know you can go to them if something happens with a resident.

Is being an RA fun?

Being an RA can be a great gig as long as you know what you’re getting into. A private (at least most of the time) room, fun activities, and a job where you get paid to hang out with people can be counterbalanced by late nights, tough situations and a major time commitment.

Is becoming an RA hard?

Working as an RA is a serious time commitment. Typically you’ll have to do rounds a few nights a week. Another factor to consider, as an RA you’ll be living where you work, which could make it difficult to maintain a life work balance. You’ll be on-call during nights, weekends, and sometimes holidays.