As I navigate my third year as a Resident Assistant (RA), I realize the role is more than simply a job. Rather, it’s a chance to grow myself, serve my community, and lay the foundation of who I want to become personally and professionally. I would be lying if I said the road has been easy; the role demands time and dedication. However, in my three years of experience, the benefits have far outweighed the challenges, making it one of the most rewarding endeavors I have taken on while in college.

One of the immediate and tangible benefits of being an RA is the financial relief it offers. Most institutions offer free housing and meal plans to RAs, which significantly reduces the financial burden of college expenses, especially for out-of-state students. At my campus in particular, a bi-weekly stipend is provided in addition to the free housing and meal plan. Not to mention, the unique merch provided to all RAs on my campus at the start of each school year for move-in season. These perks have allowed me to focus on my education and academic responsibilities without the stress of juggling off-campus part-time jobs.

While the tangible perks of being a RAs are great, the skills I have acquired in the role are invaluable. Whether resolving conflicts, organizing events, or providing guidance to residents, being a RA gives you the opportunity to serve as a mentor and role model daily. Though this may be intimidating to some, it’s a great opportunity to practice leading by example. The skills you can learn in this leadership role – communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution – are highly sought out by employers because they are transferable to many careers.

Balancing on-call duties, weekly meetings, and planning events while managing academic responsibilities can be demanding. However, I have found this challenge is also a valuable opportunity. It has led to tremendous personal development. Learning to navigate a packed schedule and meet deadlines under pressure prepares you for the real world, which usually requires similar demands. Furthermore, this unique position has allowed me to make a lasting impact, not only on residents but on my peers and friends. One of the most rewarding experiences in my time as a RA was mentoring one of my former residents through the RA application process. Not only did she get hired, but we now work on the same staff where I can watch her blossom into an amazing RA.

Becoming a RA is an unparalleled opportunity to grow as an overall leader, gain financial benefits, and develop critical life skills. While the role requires hard work and commitment, in my humble opinion, the personal and professional rewards are well worth the effort. For those seeking a transformative college experience, I believe the RA position is a powerful investment in your growth today and a stepping stone for yourself tomorrow.

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