A Successful RA Interview
How to Prepare for the Final Stage of the RA Selction Process
The final stage of the Resident Assistant (RA) selection process, and undoubtedly the most important, is the personal interview. After advancing through the initial paper screening, as well as having a successful group interview process, many candidates approach this stage with sweaty palms and dry throats. Following these helpful tips will greatly enhance your chances of being selected as an RA.
Interview Attire
Like many interviews, the manner in which a candidate is dressed will project a specific image to the interviewers. Unlike jobs outside the collegiate setting however, many successful RA candidates have put their own twist on dressing up for an interview. While maintaining the basic rules of interview grooming (i.e. showering, ironing, etc), it would be in a candidate’s best interest to wear something that demonstrates his personality. Colorful clothes, a funny tie, or interesting jewelry can all be used to express a candidates vibrant character without taking away from the interview experience.
Reasons for Becoming an RA
One of the most important questions asked by the panel will inquire about the candidate’s desire to become an RA. While the free room and board are certainly motivating enough, presenting the panel with three other reasons would be a more professional approach. Answers like “to serve as a student leader”, or “help create a positive transition for first year students” are much better responses to this line of questioning.
Programming Ideas
Possibly one the biggest determiners of a successful RA interview is going to be the quality of examples given to the “programming question.” Candidates can count on their interviewers asking them to give examples of social programs they would like to implement as an RA, and more times than not, these examples are pretty mainstream. An ideal candidate will put forth some dynamic ideas, or at least a new twist on programs that are already implemented. Responses like movie nights, pizza dinners, and diversity potlucks worked for RAs thirty years ago... brainstorm at least 3 solid programs prior to entering the interview room.
Campus Rules and Regulations
Another issue that candidates are sure to face, are a few questions regarding campus policy enforcement. Often times these questions will come in the form of a scenario or role play, so being prepared to step into these roles needs to be a priority! Before going into the interview room, review your student handbook for a better understanding of the rules and regulations. Most students tend to misplace this document, but every Resident Assistant should have a copy in their room. If not, the office of student life will certainly have one available, either in hard copy or on their website.
Diversity Awareness
The last major area of focus, and arguably the most important, is the attention to diversity awareness. Answering this set of questions inappropriately can make or break the interview outcome, so candidates must prepare a sold answer ahead of time. Get to know some of the major cultural resources on and around campus, and apply them whenever you can throughout the interview. The level of diversity awareness, particularly well beyond the limitations of race and religion, is bound to have the greatest influence on the selection process. Because RAs are the focal point of a diverse floor community, the student life department needs to ensure that their representatives are ready and willing to handle such a challenge.
Becoming a Resident Assistant is a process that requires patience and preparation throughout it’s three main stages. The personal interview however, serves as the final opportunity for candidates to convince the administrative staff why they are an exceptional fit for this elite group of student leaders. By taking care how their personal image is projected, as well as spending adequate time preparing for specific questions, candidates can rest assured they have done what is necessary to be selected.
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