The position of the Resident Assistant (RA) on college campuses has evolved over the years. Today, RA's function as leaders of their assigned hallway, floor, section, or pod of a residence hall. They are there to offer support to their residents, to solve issues between roommates, to keep their buildings safe and in order, and to coordinate events. However, many college students seem to have a negative attitude towards RA's -- many think that RA's are there to get you in trouble, to tell on you for drinking, and to boss you around. RA's are very special people that take this thankless job on to help support themselves financially, but also because they love the work. RA's deserve more gratitude. Here are five reasons to thank your RA this week:
1. They run fun events for students that sometimes involve free food.
RA events are typically not the most popular programs on campus. However, the events that RA's put on take a lot of time, cost money, and can be lots of fun. Some of my favorite events that I have attended include a pet therapy session, a stress relief workshop (we got to make our own stress balls), a cupcake decorating competition, and a sushi rolling class. At many of these events, free food such as pizza and wings were available. There's nothing like a free dinner for a broke college student like me. You should take advantage of these events because not only are they fun and informational, but they're free! If you don't see any events that interest you, suggest one to your RA! I am positive that all RA's are open to new programming ideas. Thank them for going out of their way to plan these awesome programs.
2. They are there to talk to you.
College can be a stressful time of life. Classes are difficult, balancing work with academics is tricky, and some struggle socially to make and keep friends. Your RA is always there to talk to you. If you are having trouble making friends during your first week, reach out to your RA. They may be willing to hang out with you or even suggest a club that fits your interests that you could get involved in to meet more people. If you are having roommate troubles, they can help mediate conversations between you and offer solutions. RA's have a very good understanding of the campus and can help you with everything from making friends, to figuring out the intricacies of the dining commons, to helping you find a tutor, and so on. They are a resource there for you to utilize in times of stress or confusion. Thank them just for being there for you.
3. They abbreviate their vacations for you.
RA training seminars happen before college students return to school from breaks. That means that RA's typically cut their summer and winter breaks back by at least one or two weeks. They are on campus learning how to do their job in order to keep us safe. While they are paid for this time, it's not an easy commitment to come back to school in mid-August instead of early September. Your RA gives up some of their well earned vacation time for you, so be sure to thank them for this.
4. They are typically overworked and underpaid.
If you think your RA is just taking the job for the money, you're wrong. While the incentive is a huge reason that people normally apply for the job, the payout never really equals the work put it. RA's are required to host a certain amount of events each month, plus be "on duty" some nights of the week. They often work more hours than what they are paid, mostly because the RA paychecks are usually stipend-based, and they not necessarily paid on an hourly basis. Be sure to say thanks to your RA for working hard.
5. They keep you safe.
Many college students get frustrated when RA's bust them for drinking, for using skateboards in the hall, for taking their candles, or for being too loud. While it can be somewhat annoying, it's important to remember that this is part of their job. They could lose their job for ignoring these violations of policies, but more importantly, someone could get hurt if they don't follow through. Many college students binge drink and end up in critical situations. The RA is there to prevent that from happening. Similarly, hall sports and candles in halls can cause other issues like serious injuries or fires. It's important to keep in mind that your RA is doing their part to keep everyone on campus safe, and to thank them for doing so.
