Being An RA Isn't 'Lame' | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

Being An RA Isn't 'Lame'

There shouldn't be any negative predispositions about RAs because we are only there for good.

57
Being An RA Isn't 'Lame'
Illinois Wesleyan University

When I started seeing flyers about becoming a resident assistant around campus last semester, the idea of applying stuck with me. It seemed like a position I could fill well for lots of reasons.

I've always been the listener, the advice giver, the good friend, the one who looks out for everyone, and the creative one. So, I figured becoming an RA would be the perfect fit for me. And when I got the job, I was ecstatic. I was really looking forward to being a role model and go-to person for a group of freshman girls.

But it didn't seem like other people felt the same way.

I would tell my friends and classmates I was going to be an RA and their reactions weren't all that great. I could sense a bit of judgment in their voices and could see a bit of disapproval through their expressions.

"Why would you want to be an RA?"

"You don't get to go out... you know that right?"

"Are you going to like... actually write people up?"

"You have to be on duty all the time. That sucks."

"Are you just doing it for your own room?"

"RAs ruin all the fun."

"RAs are like... pretty lame."

Being a resident assistant isn't about busting people for breaking rules or staying in your room 24/7. Yes, we may stop some of the fun, but it's only to keep people safe. It's part of our job to make sure nobody gets hurt. And if that means breaking up some fights or stepping in during disagreements, then yes we will do it. But we don't do it to be mean or to abuse our power.

Being a resident assistant isn't about not going out. We're allowed to have fun, too. But we are responsible enough to know right from wrong and are trusted to be mature. And if that means missing a few nights out on the town with our friends to stay in and put on an event for our residents who don't want to go out, then yes we will do it. That's part of the reason we wanted to become RAs — to make every resident feel included and like they belong in our community.

Being a resident assistant isn't about the room to ourselves or the cut to our tuition bill. If you hear an RA say they only took the job for the money, then they don't embody what a resident assistant stands for. We took this job because we want to be mentors, we want to be leaders and we want to be friends. It's not about our financial benefit. It's rewarding enough to know we're changing the lives of younger college students.

Being a resident assistant is about helping, setting foundations for college living, creating a positive environment, and bringing people together (and being a little artsy because door decorations are important too). There shouldn't be any negative predispositions about RAs because we are only there for good. Becoming an RA is a decision each one of us made because we want to give back not take away.

So don't call us lame. We're pretty cool if you ask me.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

23553
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

9840
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

7131
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments