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RA Recruitment

The Resident Assistant Position

Overview

The Resident Assistant (RA) is responsible for a floor or living area within a residence hall at Appalachian State University. As the front-line University Housing staff member in the assigned area, the RA is responsible for serving as a mentor and guide to 40-60 residents. The RA is responsible for facilitating a cooperative and considerate community environment. To achieve this goal, the RA is expected to initiate relationships with residents, assist in the facilitation of the residential curriculum, encourage participation in residence hall programs, and inform residents of University and departmental policies. In addition, the RAs assist with the personal and academic concerns of students, mediate interpersonal conflicts, and serve as an information resource for residents.

Qualifications

In order to receive and maintain the RA position candidates must meet the following qualifications from the submission of their application until either the end of their appointment, termination, or resignation from the RA position.

  • Successful completion of a background check administered by University Housing
  • Maintain full-time enrollment at Appalachian State University
  • Maintain a cumulative and semester grade point average of 2.30 or above
  • Maintain good standing with the Office of Student Conduct
  • Comply with all other University Housing, Appalachian State University, and UNC System policies
  • Manage multiple job duties simultaneously
  • Complete tasks with competing deadlines in a timely manner
  • Appropriately address difficult situations where conflict and crisis are present
  • Maintain critical thinking skills during stressful situations
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Engage in conversation with diverse populations and skill sets
Compensation

Resident Assistants are compensated with an hourly rate (starting at $11 an hour for new RAs) for each hour worked in the RA Role. Anticipated hours are between 5 and 15 hours per week, but variation occurs based on staff size, meaning the smaller the staff size, the greater number of hours it is anticipated you would work weekly. Payment begins in August and RAs are paid every two weeks ending in May.

RA employment at Appalachian is "employment at will." That is, should you not be satisfactorily completeing your responsibilites, Appalachian may terminate your employment.

Full Position Description

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Below is an example of the RA job description, and a video where former staff shared their feelings about the RA role. It is expected that RA training will start at the end of July or beginning of August. Specific dates will be shared with you when/if you are offered the RA position.

How to Apply