The Resident Assistant position is a live-in, peer mentorship, student staff position working an average of 15 hours a week within the Residence Halls on the Oregon State University Corvallis campus. RAs are assigned to a wing or floor of residents within that community.
RAs are responsible for creating and maintaining emotionally and physically safe and secure residential communities. RAs are called upon to effectively respond to and manage a variety of crisis and emergency situations. They play a key role in creating environments that encourage all students to be academically and personally successful. Resident Directors supervise RAs in the performance and evaluation of their duties through weekly one-on-ones, staff meetings, and trainings/in-services.
For more information, you can review the Resident Assistant Position Description for the 2024-2025 academic year.
The RA Application process for 2024-25 occurs throughout the winter and spring term. The application opens on February 5, 2024 and will close on March 3, 2024.
The application process includes submitting a resume and essay responses to the application essay questions. The Selection Committee will review application materials and extend an offer to interview to those who meet qualifications.
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The application requires candidates to provide essay responses to supplemental questions. It is recommended that you write your response offline and then copy and paste them into the application before you submit.
1. As an RA, you are tasked with forming personal connections with all of the residents within your community. Tell us about a time when you took initiative to build a connection with someone you didn't know. What steps did you take to further grow that relationship? How do you feel this applies to the RA position?
2. As an RA, you may be in situations where you have to engage in uncomfortable conversations around breaking policies, roommate agreements, or other conflicts. Please give an example of a time when you approached or engaged in a conflict or difficult conversation. How did you manage the situation and what was the resolution? How could this experience help you support residents navigating conflict or difficult conversations?
3. Engaging with diverse cultures, identities, and perspectives gives students learning depth and vibrancy. We strive to help students reflect on their own identity and cultures, develop empathy and deepen their commitment to effect social change. How have you explored your own cultural and social identities? How have you demonstrated a genuine interest in the cultural and social identities of others? Reflect on how your engagement has enhanced your understanding of social justice and/or social change.
We want applicants to be successful in this process. Here are some resources and opportunities to prepare for the application process.
Here are some tips and tools to help you prepare for your interview:
Application Timeline
If you have a question that is not listed below, please contact hallstaffselection@oregonstate.edu
What if I don’t have the required GPA?
I am an international student. Can I still apply?
When is training?
Can I hold another position on/off campus if I am an RA?
I’ve never lived on-campus. Can I still apply?
Do I already need to know how to confront people or respond to emergencies?
I see RAs are “on duty.” What does this mean?
Why am I being asked about social justice in the application?
What is my expected time commitment in the building?
How many RAs are you hiring? What is an alternate pool?
Will I get to choose which building I will be assigned?
What should I do about housing if I don't get hired or get selected as hired as an RA?