This page contains information you will need to successfully complete the first step in the RA application process.
The Resident Advisor (RA) is an experienced USciences student who serves as a member of the Student Life staff, caring for and supporting USciences’ residential population. Through their presence and outreach, RAs positively shape the USciences’ on-campus living experience, while also enhancing their own leadership skills (including time management, interpersonal communication, budgeting, public speaking, and conflict mediation). Few campus employment opportunities provide students with the scope and depth of this position; RA applicants must be prepared for an incredibly rewarding and challenging experience where they can impact the lives of many students.
In line with these expectations, RAs’ primary responsibilities are to build community and serve as a resource to the students living on their floor and in their residence hall. The Residence Life program depends on the performance of each staff member’s responsibilities and support of the overall team.
Qualifications
Each RA must:
- Be a full-time registered USciences student,
- Maintain a cumulative 2.5 grade point average (GPA)
- Demonstrate consistent academic performance
- Remain in good standing with respect to academics, conduct, and student accounts (RAs should not be on any type of probation or hold)
- Complete HS320 (or some variant -- offered Fall 2012) or SS 203 (or some variant -- offered Spring 2013) within one academic year of the start of the position.
Process and Timeline
Application Open
Week of January 22, 2012
- Applications will be available online. Click here for application.
Information Sessions
It is highly recommended you attend one of the sessions; the same material will be presented at each.
- RA Recruitment Info Session 1: Tuesday, Jan. 24 at 1:30 pm (PTC 233)
- RA Recruitment Info Session 2: Tuesday, Jan. 24 at 7:30 pm (Wilson 205)
- RA Recruitment Info Session 3: Thursday, Jan. 26 at 3:30 pm (Wilson 209)
Applications Due:
Friday, February 17, 2012
- All application materials will be due online by 5 pm.
- You will need to sign up for an individual interview time. Please contact Judy Styles (j.styles@usciences.edu) to setup a time by Friday, February 10, 2012 at 5 pm.
Individual Interview
Monday, February 20, 2012 thru Friday, March 2, 2012
- Will be with professional staff member and current RA
Group Process
Sunday, February 26, 2012, 6-9pm (location TBA)
- All candidates must attend.
Recommendations
Friday, March 2, 2012, 5pm
- All applicants must submit two references supporting your candidacy.
- There should be one professional staff recommendation and one faculty recommendation
- Direct staff and faculty recommenders to this site to complete your recommendation
Decision
Monday, March 12, 2012
- Decisions will be emailed BEFORE Housing Selection Night
- All candidates should participate in the housing selection process until they have been offered a RA position
Introductory Staff Meeting
TENTATIVE: Thursday, March 29, 2012, 1pm
- This will be an opportunity for ALL 2012-2013 RAs to meet for the first time!
Before submitting your application, please read and understand the 2012-2013 RA Contract.
The Department of Student Life wants to ensure that you thoroughly understand the application process and the requirements of the position. If you have any questions regarding the application process please contact Jay Tifone, Associate Director of Student Life, at 215.895.3120 or by email at j.tifone@usciences.edu.