The Resident Assistant (RA) is a
student who is employed by the
Housing Department of their respective
college or
university to serve as a live-in member of the
Residence Life Staff. The RA works with the directors of the dorm in which they live in order to establish a
positive living environment for the
resident students.
The essential functions of the RA position include the ability to: Read reports, gather and compile information for reports, perform cash transactions, communicate effectively with residents, staff, and guests, and direct and respond to
fire alarms.
The RA is primarily involved in creating a
community environment. In order to accomplish this, the RA is expected to play a variety of constantly changing roles. The RA must be flexible and creative in meeting the residents' needs by serving as a
counselor,
advisor,
activity programmer, educator, and friend. This position requires a serious
time commitment and
willingness to be available and accessible to other students.