It’s 3:30 A.M., you’re the Resident Assistant on call, you have an exam in the morning in your 9:25 course and the phone rings. You think to yourself, “Why now? The phone hasn’t rang all night.” nonetheless, you get up and respond to the call.
At this point, I know you’re wondering, “What is a Resident Assistant anyway?” If you aren’t familiar with the term Resident Assistant you’ve either A) never attended or visited a college in your lifetime or B) have been to college but never attended any of your floor meetings during undergrad because you ignored all of your emails, hence why you have no idea what’s going on right now.
At Buffalo State University, Resident Assistants (RAs) play a vital role in enhancing the on-campus living experience for the students. Assigned to one or multiple floors for the academic year, they ensure students have the support, information, and guidance needed for success in all aspects of their lives.
Anyone can become an RA, however, there are a few qualifications that you must have before you begin the application process.
Resident Assistants at Buffalo State University must be full-time students with a minimum GPA of 2.50, while also maintaining good conduct, and complying with all laws; violations of the Student Code of Conduct or fire safety can disqualify them.
RAs are also expected to exhibit strong leadership, follow campus policies during breaks, and commit to their residents’ development.
To start your journey as a Resident Assistant, first confirm your qualifications and then complete a Student Staff Interest Form. You’ll need to attend at least one informational session, which runs from October to February, where you’ll learn about the role and responsibilities, in which you can ask any questions you may have.
After attending, you’ll receive an email with the application to fill out. Once submitted, Residence Life will review your application and may invite you for an interview to further your candidacy.
RAs are responsible for effective communication with students and supervisors, timely completion of paperwork, and maintaining confidentiality. They play a vital role in fostering community through engagement, conflict resolution, and adherence to policies while also being on-call for emergencies.
Additionally, RAs oversee facility conditions, collaborate with custodial staff, and manage key control procedures to ensure safety and security.
“Your behavior sets the tone for your floor. If you model respect and responsibility, residents are more likely to follow suit,” a principle emphasized by former Tower 1 RA Alijah Giscombe. Taking initiative is crucial for thriving in this role. “Don’t wait for problems to come to you,” advises veteran RA Dylan Williams, who formerly worked in Bengal Hall.
Becoming a Resident Assistant at Buffalo State is a commitment to building a supportive community for fellow students. RAs blend leadership and compassion, playing a vital role in campus life.
This position requires dedication, proactive engagement, and strong ethics. Remember, your impact on residents’ experiences can be profound. If you’re ready for the challenge, step forward, your journey as an RA awaits.
