Residential Life: Reasons to consider being an RA

Have you ever thought about being a Resident Assistant? If you have (or even if you haven't), here are ten reasons you may want to consider being an RA.10. You had a good RA and want to be helpful to others the way he/she was helpful to you. Your personal experiences with your RA or RAs can really affect whether or not you consider working for the department. My experience with my first RA really influenced my decision to be an RA. Knowing that you've had a good example set for you can lay the groundwork for a great experience as an RA.

9. You're looking for job experience. Let's be honest here, aside from being something you can enjoy, being an RA is a great resume booster. It's easy to apply what you learn and do as an RA to anything else you may do. The skills you acquire can be helpful for the future. Remember: "Nothing in life prepares you to be an RA but being an RA prepares you for anything."

8. You're looking for leadership experience and the opportunity to program events. Being an RA allows you to become a leader on campus. You go through Student Leader training in both the summer and winter. In addition, you will be able to put on programs for your area in or the entire campus.

7. Compensation. One amazing perk of being an RA is that it can save you a boatload of money. This is something I know you'll be grateful for when it's time to start paying back loans and your parents will be grateful too. However, while it's a great benefit of being an RA, it should not be the only reason you consider the position.

6. You're looking to expand your horizons. Being an RA allows you to meet a variety of people. This includes other RAs and other student leaders (since you will be seeing them at training). With this you'll be able to get to know a diverse group of people and leaders.

5. You're looking to be part of a staff-actually, not staff-a team. Being an RA makes you part of many teams. You become a member of the Student Leader team. Additionally, you become a member of the Residential Life team as a whole as well as a part of your individual team in your area. (Plus, we do have a few intramural teams as well!) So, if you're a team player or looking to become one, this could be the place for you.

4. You want to become more involved. Being an RA makes you part of a family, as corny as that may sound. It is great to have such a strong support system and make new friends.

3. People look up to you or tell you that you're a good role model. Are you the person your friends come to for advice? When you work in groups are you the one everyone looks toward to take the lead? Have professors noticed you're someone others look up to? If you can say yes to any of these questions or similar ones, you may want to consider being an RA.

2. Someone mentioned you would be a good RA. Maybe it was your H/RA, RD, professor, or even a friend. If these people see something in you, you should also.

And the last and most important reason why you should consider being an RA.

1. You WANT to be a RA. This is by far the most important reason to think about being an RA. If you don't want to be RA, then these nine other reasons really do not matter. Being an RA is something you have to want and something that should make you happy. Remember to do this for yourself because if it's for someone else you'll still be wasting your time!

If you're interested in being an RA, come into the Office of Residential Life (in the lobby of Salisbury Hall) or contact Will Galloway at wgalloway@assumption.edu for more information.