There are a number of researchers and faculty who specialize in something called "student development theory." These theories study how college students grow and develop during their time at school. Although you're not expected to be a "theory expert" as a student staff member, there are nevertheless some simple concepts and take aways than can... Continue Reading →
A Self-Care Self-Assessment Tool for RAs and Student Staff
We all know that residence life can be stressful! And self care is CRITICALLY important? But how do you know if your'e practicing good and regular self care? One of the best strategies is through self-reflection and check-ins. Your supervisor can also be a support. Below you will find a self-assessment tool that includes a... Continue Reading →
Theory For RAs and Student Staff: Marginality and Mattering
There are a number of researchers and faculty who specialize in something called "student development theory." These theories study how college students grow and develop during their time at school. Although you're not expected to be a "theory expert" as a student staff member, there are nevertheless some simple concepts and take aways than can... Continue Reading →
Theory For RAs and Student Staff: How Our Thinking Evolves
There are a number of researchers and faculty who specialize in something called โstudent development theory.โ These theories study how college students grow and develop during their time at school. Although youโre not expected to be a โtheory expertโ as a student staff member, there are nevertheless some simple concepts and take aways than can... Continue Reading →
From Hall to Home: Identifying Homesick Residents and Helping them to Adjust
~ Blog Posts Written By RAs for RAs ~ Adapting to university life is a challenge every incoming freshman faces. Exciting times as a new adult, with a new sense of independence can be seen as a positive, however they come with newfound responsibilities which often leave someone lonely. An RAโs job is therefore even... Continue Reading →
Theory For RAs and Student Staff: 7 Ways Residents Grow and Change in College
There are a number of researchers and faculty who specialize in something called "student development theory." These theories study how college students grow and develop during their time at school. Although you're not expected to be a "theory expert" as a student staff member, there are nevertheless some simple concepts and take aways than can... Continue Reading →
Theory For RAs and Student Staff: Helping Your Residents Achieve Self-Authorship
There are a number of researchers and faculty who specialize in something called "student development theory." These theories study how college students grow and develop during their time at school. Although you're not expected to be a "theory expert" as a student staff member, there are nevertheless some simple concepts and take aways than can... Continue Reading →
How Can I Be A Better Team Player as an RA or Student Staff Member?
Being a Resident Assistant (RA) or student staff member is a role that demands more than just good organizational skills and a friendly demeanor. It requires a collaborative spirit and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. Whether you're new to the position or looking to enhance your skills, here are some... Continue Reading →
How To Get The Most Out Of “RA Training” As A Returning RA
August is here, and for most of us, that means it is RA training time! If you are a returning RA, hopefully coming back to campus and continuing your role excites you. However, for many returning RAs, the thought of sitting through training for a job you have already done is gruesome. You may be... Continue Reading →
RA*Chat Ep 80: First Impressions: The Crucial Role of RAs and Campus Partners on Move-in Day with Dr. Andy Johnson
In this episode of Roompactโs ResEdChat, Crystal is joined by Dr. Andy Johnson, Director for Operations & Outreach at the University of South Florida. Andy shares insights on common questions students and families have as they prepare for campus move-in and highlights the numerous campus partners involved in this major production. Additionally, Andy and Crystal... Continue Reading →
From Panic to Planโฆ Crisis Mitigation Strategies for RAs and Student Staff
~ Blog Posts Written By RAs for RAs ~ The thought of a looming crisis can be daunting for any RA or student staff member. We all know that all-too-familiar sinking feeling as the duty phone starts ringing. No matter how confident one might be before an incident, in an emergency, having a clear-cut plan... Continue Reading →
RA*Chat Ep 78: I was an RA: The Key is Excitement and Belief! with Brittney Henton
In this episode of Roompactโs RA*Chat, Crystal is joined by Brittney Henton, former RA and an Educational Services Representative in schools and libraries, and a Brand Partner with PaperPie (formerly Usborne Books & More). Brittney shares the things she learned as an RA and how they continue to influence her life as a wife, and... Continue Reading →
Thriving and Surviving: Welcome to Being an RA
~ Blog Posts Written By RAs for RAs ~ Chances are, if youโre reading a blog post preparing for being an RA before you have even started training, your mind is probably already in the right place. That being said, you might want to know a few tips, tricks, and strategies to help you get... Continue Reading →
Being An RA Is A Job That Gives Back–Based On What You’re Willing To Put In
I am going to go ahead and preemptively start this post off with a small disclaimer/apology: I will try as hard as I possibly can to say all of this with complete sincerity, while also hopefully not sounding too much like the โyou need to wear more flairโ manager. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ChQK8j6so8 During my time as an... Continue Reading →
Wherever You Go, There You RA
Adapted from: Wherever You Go, There You Are College life is a whirlwind. Between classes, work, and the ever-present social scene, it's easy to feel overwhelmed as a residential life student staff member. You're not just a student anymore โ you're a leader, a confidant, an event planner, an academic advisor, and sometimes, a crisis counselor... Continue Reading →
Itโs Time For Your Student Staff Performance Evaluation! How To Make The Most Out Of Itย
For many students, being an RA is one of the first jobs, if not the first job they have ever had. This also means that for many students their first time having a conversation about their job performance or being evaluated by a supervisor. These conversations can seem really intimidating if you don't know what... Continue Reading →
Finish Line in Sight: How to Leverage your RA/Student Staff Work Experience, Skills, and Knowledge
Many students, including myself during my undergrad years, take on the RA or similar student staff role for financial reasons, to build connections, and/or to make a meaningful impact. However, the responsibilities of your RA role may not always align with your career or academic program. As a result, many graduating RAs, third-year RAs, and... Continue Reading →
Balancing Life as an RA with School: Tips and Tricks
~ Blog Posts Written By RAs for RAs ~ Balancing the responsibilities of being an RA with the often overwhelming demands of academic life can be a challenging endeavor. Being an RA comes with unique duties and expectations, while your work at school often requires substantial time and focus...sometimes too much. This can be a... Continue Reading →



