Thinking of applying to be a resident assistant? Read this.
by Kymee Noll – Horizon Editor-in-Chief
Calling all freshmen! The Resident Assistant information meeting is coming up, and applications will be due before you know it. If you’re interested in this leadership position but are nervous and wondering where to start, here are a few tips from your current RAs.
Q: Why should I apply?
A: “Ask yourself why you want to do it. Is it because you get your own room? You want to make a difference? Do you need money? Do you enjoy building relationships with people? These were questions I asked myself before applying.” – Spencer Miller
“Before my interview, I thoroughly thought through why I wanted to be an RA, and how it would affect the rest of my time at Hesston, such as the time commitment and effort to plan activities. I prepared by thinking about the qualities that would make me a good candidate and how they applied to me.” – Quinn Kathrineberg
Q: What else should I consider before applying?
A: “I thought about how I would have to balance my time between studies, classes, work, and still be able to spend time in the mod with my guys. I went in thinking if I don’t get the position that is OK there are other ways I can build relationships with people.” – Spencer Miller
Q: Why did you apply?
A: “The reason I applied for the RA position was because I wanted to create a fun atmosphere where we could all be ourselves, hang out, and have a good time together. I also wanted to be supportive of my guys and encourage them to make good decisions that will help them down the road. I also wanted to be available so that they could come talk to me about anything whether that was family issues, mod concerns, or other things they were dealing with.” – Spencer Miller
Q: What tips do you have for freshmen wanting to apply?
A: “Be honest. Be yourself. Dress up. Give it your best. Try to anticipate what they might ask before the interview. Try not to be nervous, we have four great RDs that conduct the interviews!” – Spencer Miller
“Wear professional, appropriate dress to the interview, don’t be nervous because the RDs are awesome and unintimidating, and make sure that it’s really what you want to do because it requires a lot of responsibility and can be overwhelming with a busy schedule.” – Alex Hiebert
“Be authentic and stand up what you believe in.” – Connor Rockelman
“Don’t apply just to have your own room, or to make a little extra money. Do apply to build leadership skills, make awesome relationships, and challenge your comfort zone.” – Quinn Kathrineberg
