What is a Resident Assistant?
SUNY Albany describes a Resident Assistant as, "an essential figure in the University’s efforts to create inviting, intellectual, and inclusive residence halls." Those fifteen words don't nearly capture the expectations of a Resident Assistant. From a resident's perspective, we are their role models and leaders. We help residents learn about resources on campus and campus policies. If a resident needs someone to talk to, whether it is a personal issue or a housing issue, we are there. As RAs, we live in a "fishbowl," meaning we are always being watched. Therefore, we have to set a positive example for all residents at all times. From our supervisor's perspective, we are workers who are expected to successfully carryout all duties of our job. For example, 3/4 weekends we are on duty making sure there aren't any troubles in the halls. If we are on duty and we are get a call at 5:00AM, we are expected to answer it and take care of the matter. We are expected to create interactive, interesting programs that will give students the chance to learn and enjoy themselves. Our supervisors are the boss and we must fulfill all the duties they require from us. From our own perspectives, we went through a process to earn this job. While we are extremely privileged to be here, we must master time management in order to be successful in this field. We must understand the hierarchy of importance: Family, School, Job. Not only are we trying to please our residents and supervisors, we have a standard we set for ourselves that we must meet.
Overall, being resident assistant is a job that many may not fully understand. We are more than just, "an essential figure in the University’s efforts to create inviting, intellectual, and inclusive residence halls." We are leaders, role models, workers, students, and achievers.
Overall, being resident assistant is a job that many may not fully understand. We are more than just, "an essential figure in the University’s efforts to create inviting, intellectual, and inclusive residence halls." We are leaders, role models, workers, students, and achievers.