Becoming a Resident Advisor is a fun, exciting experience, but it’s not easy. It takes time, effort, and dedication to prepare for the application process. By following these tips, you can make sure you’re well-prepared to make a positive impact on the lives of the students you hope to serve. Make sure to be yourself and let your personality shine through.
The role of a university Resident Advisor (RA) is a rewarding and challenging experience that can help you gain valuable experience in the field of student services, while making a positive impact on the lives of the students you serve. If you’re interested in becoming an RA, here are some tips to help you prepare for the application process and increase your chances of getting this sweet gig.
Familiarize Yourself With The University & Housing Department
This is an obvious one and something that you probably already did or something that you already know. But if you want to become an RA, it is important to do some research and learn as much as you can about the university and the housing department. If you feel that you already know everything about the university, maybe do some more research anyway. Visit the university website and read about the history, mission, and the values of the institution. Learn about the different housing options that are available to students, including the residence halls, apartments, and other themed communities. Get to know the department of housing staff and learn about the programs and services that they offer to students.
Build Connections With Current RAs
Reach out to some of the RAs or connect with the RAs that work and live in your dorm. Ask about their experiences. Find out what they like and don’t like about the job, and ask for advice on how to prepare for the application process. Building relationships with current RAs can also be a good way to get an idea of the culture and expectations of the department of housing.
Develop Your Leadership Skills:
An RA is a leader and role model for the students in their community. It’s important to develop your leadership skills and gain experience in leadership roles before applying to be an RA. You can do this by joining student organizations, volunteering, and participating in leadership development programs.
Prepare for the Interview:
The interview is the most important part of the RA selection process, obviously. Prepare for the interview by researching the university and department of housing, and practice your interviewing skills. As mentioned in step one, make sure to remember what you researched about the housing department and know the expectations of the role. Prepare to answer common interview questions. I would imagine there would be a few RA scenario questions, maybe some questions about your core values, and questions as to why you want to be an RA. Be ready to talk about your leadership experiences, your strengths and weaknesses, and how you would handle difficult situations.
Be Yourself:
Make sure to be yourself. Show the housing department that you’re a cool, down to earth person and show them what you can bring to the table. If they’re not impressed, then I’m sorry.
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Conclusion:
Becoming a Resident Advisor is a fun, exciting experience, but it’s not easy. It takes time, effort, and dedication to prepare for the application process. By following these tips, you can make sure you’re well-prepared to make a positive impact on the lives of the students you hope to serve. Make sure to be yourself and let your personality shine through. Good luck!