What is a Resident Assistant?

A resident assistant, or RA, is a trained peer leader who advises a group of students within their community. An RA has many roles and responsibilities, including, but not limited to, building a community through hosting events, acting as an mentor, being a familiar first resource for students with academic or institutional questions, and enforcing residence hall and university policies.

Why should I apply to be an RA?

There are so many reasons you should apply to be an RA! Do you like people? Projects and events? Making a difference?

The RA position builds a wide variety of invaluable skills such as time and project management, peer conflict mediation, teamwork skills, budget management, creativity, and problem solving. RAs also have opportunities to serve on department and university wide committees and attend student leadership conferences. RAs are the foundation of Residence Life; creating and supporting our hall communities.

How do I apply?

To be considered for interview, each candidate must submit an application, resume, and the RA application prompt through our posting on the Ship Career Connection site. In addition, two references must be submitted; one completed by a Housing & Residence Life staff member and the other by a non-family member who can speak to your involvement or experience (i.e. advisor, previous supervisor, coach, professor). The reference form can be found on the left side bar and can be submitted right on the website.

Applications are currently being accepted. For consideration for the 2023-2024 academic year, applications must be submitted by Friday, May 3rd, 2024 @ 4:30PM

Want More Information?

Reach out to your Residence Director or email the RA Selection committee at ShipRA@ship.edu.