The Role of a Resident Advisors (RA)

When I first decided to live on campus and stay in a residence hall, I kept hearing this term “Resident Advisor” or “RA.” My mind automatically concluded that this was some older student that was there to enforce rules and walked around writing people up. But, goodness, I was way off!
I’m currently employed by NC State as a RA and RAs are much more then policy enforcers and in reality, this is the smallest portion of the job. As an RA, we attend extensive training in the summer and winter breaks to ensure we have the lasted and most up to date information pertaining to policies and resources at NC State. Our goals are to help each student successfully transition to living on-campus and succeeding in college. RAs accomplish this goal through a variety of methods. One of these is putting on hall programs. Programs are events geared specifically towards residents and can include things like discovering campus resources, challenging and growing personally and professionally, expanding viewpoints and educations, or simply getting together and having social outings.
RAs are also full of valuable information that they love to give out! We are constantly receiving posters to hang up and e-mails full of opportunities to share with the members of our building. Connecting with you RA is a wonderful way to find out how to get involved and keep up to date with campus activities. In accordance with this, as an RA, it’s really important to get to know each resident and create a community among the hall and students. We want everyone to have a positive experience and create lasting friendships and memories!
One of the more serious aspects of the RA job pertains to emergency situations and procedures. When crisis occurs, RAs are the first ones to respond in the halls and can give instructions on the proper procedures to follow. They are also there when small personal crisis happens, such a roommate conflicts. And unfortunately, RAs do have to fit the mold and be sure that the University Housing policies are being followed and respected. The policies ensure that everyone is having a safe environment and we want to ensure that happens.
As you begin transitioning to college life, take the time to meet your RA and find out how they can personally help you! We really are a great resource and would love to be of assistance in any way!
Posted by: Stephanie Connor