Top 5 Tips To Become Resident Assistant at NYU

Applying to be an RA can feel incredibly scary. It is the most competitive on-campus position because of its benefits- free housing and a meal plan. However, there are ways to differentiate yourself from the rest of the applicant pool. Without further ado, here are my top 5 tips to become a Resident Assistant at NYU!

Why do you want to become an RA beyond the free housing and meal plan?

For me, it was the desire to have a meaningful impact on someone’s college journey. Being an RA grants you the ability to ensure that residents are transitioning into college smoothly and to connect them to other micro-communities on campus where they can find belonging. I also aimed to implement programs that focused on wellness and relaxation through nature and spirituality.

A great way to gain insights into the RA’s role is by directly consulting a current RA.

Living on-campus enables you to directly ask your RA about their experience in the role. This is a conversation to inquire about the time commitment, growth opportunities, and other expectations. Then, you can more effectively assess if it aligns with what you are looking for.

Certainly, having a thorough understanding of NYU and leadership experience is advantageous when applying.

Given that the RA role is available only to third and fourth-year students, it grants you the first two years to prepare and gain experience. I encourage prospective applicants to get involved with anything! Seek out job opportunities, participate in service trips, and explore various micro-communities.

When I applied, I already gained experience by being an Admissions Ambassador, Wasserman Career Ambassador, and service cohort leader. Then, I strung all of my previous experiences together to create a narrative that highlighted my ability to connect people to communities and bridge interpersonal relations.

Apply to be part of your Residential Hall student government if you are in on-campus housing! Student government is a great way to get involved within the residential hall even before becoming an RA. Further, you will learn the ropes of what it’s like to implement programming that fit the needs of residents.

Being part of the general body for Hall Council can also get you insight as to how you are able to contribute to different residential halls.

What type of community builder are you?

RA’s have many roles: from mediating roommate conflicts to designing programming and strengthening interpersonal connections. Undoubtedly, successful RA’s are able to bring in their community building skills to ensure that each resident is getting the attention they need to succeed academically, socially and personally.

Some RA’s use their artistic creativity to put together bulletin boards that engage residents. Other excel at being creative in their event planning to attract a variety of residents.