How to Become a Resident Assistant

Working as a resident assistant opens many doors to your future. It provides so many opportunities for you to grow as a person, learn from others, and practice leadership skills you will need in your future career. In many cases, it also provides you with rent-free housing, and covers other education expenses. On paper, this kind of position will help you stand out in a sea of resumes. Here's how to become a RA.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Most colleges do not accept freshmen as resident assistants. The reason for this is simple: as a RA, you will be assisting other residents. You will be helping them find their way around campus, educating them about various organizations, and mentoring. You need to have these experiences yourself before you can guide others.

2. Make sure you are getting good grades. The higher your GPA, the better. You want to show the Department of Residential Life that you are a good student and can balance your studies with other activities.

3. Take advantage of the many volunteer opportunities available to you. Try not to limit yourself to the holiday drives. While these are important, volunteering year-round is more impressive than a brief go every now and then.

4. Get involved on campus. Try a wide variety of groups, but not so many that you are overwhelmed. Just stick to the ones that most interest you, and maybe one or two that are out of your comfort zone. You might learn something about yourself in the process!

5. Work for the department of residential life, or whatever the title of the department is at your college. Get a job at the front desk, sorting mail, or in your dorm's government. Whether it pays or not, it shows that you have a real interest in the department and your peers' standard of living. It also gives existing RAs, Hall Directors, and heads of the department a chance to get to know you.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk to your hall director and let them know you are interested in the position. They will be able to guide you more specifically for your school's requirements.

[surly-mac]

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