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Resident Advisor Application Packet 2013-2014
The Resident Advisor is a paraprofessional staff member who assists in managing a University owned living area, the development of students in the residence hall, and overseeing the health and safety of all residential students. Resident Advisors must be actively supportive of the mission and goals of the DeSales University, the Department of Student Affairs, and the Office of Residence Life. The Resident Advisor position is live-in and requires evening and weekend commitments.
Responsibilities
The Resident Advisor has responsibilities in each of the following end areas:
- Community Development & Residential Education
- Duty Rotation & Policy Compliance
- Staff Training & Development
- Housing Operations & Facilities Management
- Administrative & Other Responsibilities
Special Considerations/Qualifications
Successful completion of the Resident Advisor selection process is required. A resident advisor must have achieved sophomore class standing by the beginning of his/her employment. Resident advisors are expected to maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.4 for their entire period of employment.
Previous student leadership experience or work experience in a leadership position is preferred but not required. A Resident Advisor is expected to possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong organizational abilities, and be comfortable working with all undergraduate students. An understanding and appreciation for the University’s Catholic and liberal arts traditions is essential.
What do I need to do to apply? Complete and submit an application, which includes a resume, cover letter, and two letters of recommendation.
What percentage of new applicants are typically hired? Our office typically employs 40 to 45 staff members depending on campus housing needs. Approximately one-third of new applicants are hired.
What is involved in the application process?
- Completed application (including an updated resume, cover letter and two references)
- Social event to meet current RA staff and applicants
- Group process day
- Personal interviews
Are there any intangible benefits to being an RA? Developing improved leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills. RAs gain deeper self-awareness through stretching their perceived limits of creativity and learning to balance both the RA position and other academic/leadership responsibilities.
What are the practical benefits of being an RA? Monthly monetary stipend, a double room as a single, and a great resume builder.
Will I be able to manage the responsibilities of being a full time student and being an RA? Theatre majors, Physician Assistant majors, athletes, SGA cabinet members, etc., are all RAs. It is possible if you are able to effectively manage your schedule.
What are some of an RAs general responsibilities?
- Creating a safe and learning conducive environment for residents
- Monthly programming responsibilities
- Serving in an on-call rotation (Between 5 and 7 nights per month 1-2 nights a week)
- Addressing policy violations on campus as they occur
- Acting as a 24/7 reference for residents
- Collaborating with fellow RA team members
- Participation in annual RA and Housing Selection processes
- Availability for weekly meetings and monthly in-service meetings
How does a Resident Advisor’s job differ from other leadership positions on campus? The Resident Advisor position revolves around the lives students lead outside the classroom, and away from extracurricular activities. Although the RA job is considered a leadership position on campus, it is also a compensated position with expectations that must be fulfilled in order to remain on staff.
If you have any questions about the RA position or the DeSales Resident Advisor Program, please contact reslife@desales.edu or speak with any member of our Resident Advisor Staff.
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