By: Mike Gincel, Contributing Writer
The process to become a Resident Assistant (RA) is one that has multiple steps and requires candidates to show to the Residence Life staff why they feel that they are the best person for the job. As someone who has applied for the job in the past, I found several do’s and don’ts that a candidate should consider when going through the process of becoming an RA.
First, the process itself is one that the candidates should be familiar with. Candidates must complete an application online at www.saintleo.jobs. The staff screens those candidates and selects approximately 60-80 candidates for the group round that takes place over 2-3 nights a few weeks later. They then split those candidates into groups of 5 to 6 and ask them to participate in a night of group activities in the Apartment 4 lounges. Current RAs will screen these applicants and then recommend to the staff who should move on to the individual round. The 40 or so selected will move on to the final round in which they are interviewed by a full-time staff member and 2-3 current RAs. Then the staff will select which candidates will be offered the position.
I went through the process three times, with two times advancing to the final round and one time making it to the group round. Although I was not selected for the job, I was given a lot of practice on how to handle myself in a group setting and how to answer questions and give proper answers during an interview. Below are my Do’s and Don’ts for all three rounds of the RA process:
The Application: Do’s and Don’ts:
DO be honest and forthcoming with your application. It shows the staff that you are serious and that you take the job very seriously.
DO include a correct and up-to-date resume and cover letter.
DO include proper contact information and several ways to reach you.
DON’T have any spelling, grammatical or punctuation errors.
DON’T forget to fill out all parts of the application
DON’T lie on an application. Don’t over-inflate your resume or try to lie about anything you’ve accomplished. It will come back to haunt you and it is never good to lie on a job application.
The Group Round: Do’s and Don’ts:
DO talk to your group and get to know each other. You will all play a role in ensuring that the group works well and that you will be judged not only as an individual but as a group.
DO work together on the tasks ahead. Make sure everyone has a say in decisions or in making a plan.
DO make a good impression. Dress to impress and make sure to stand out for the right reasons. Make sure you are polite, proper and professional to those who are scoring you.
DON’T become bossy or rude. When in group postions, some people will assume leadership roles and will want to lead. That is fine and encouraged but don’t become a leader that is bossy and does not listen to others. This was a mistake I made my first time applying. I was so worried about impressing the RAs that I literally talked over everyone and only focused on me. That will show that you are not mature for the position and will not be a team player.
DON’T talk back to anyone or be rude. Treat others the way you would want to be treated. If you are rude or interrupt someone, make sure to apologize and to say “excuse me.”
DON’T forget to say thank you and be courteous to everyone in the process. Showing that gives the impression of professionalism, class, and maturity.
The Final Interview: Do’s and Don’ts
DO show up 10-15 minutes early to the final interview. Not only are you not rushed, but it shows that you are serious about the position.
DO greet each interviewer. Smile, shake their hand and introduce yourself.
DO answer honestly and truthfully to their questions.
DO take a second or two to think before you answer their questions. They may give you scenarios or questions that may require a detailed and thought out answer. Don’t be afraid to take a few seconds to think of an answer before responding. Make sure you answer their question completely.
DON’T be afraid to ask questions! If you are confused or need clarification, simply ask the interviewer to clarify.
DON’T use it as a time to rant about a certain policy or a certain rule. This is not the time or place for it. They may ask you what you would change about Saint Leo or a rule or policy that you would like to see. Don’t make it personal, make it professional.
The application opens up on Feb. 1. Good luck to everyone who applies and maybe you could be the next RA!
