Photo Courtesy of Frank C. Williams
The life of an RA
By: Jordan White
Auburn University at Montgomery is committed to being a positive and safe living environment for its residents and it takes a driven team to ensure those needs are met, according to an AUM housing associate. The campus’s diverse and dynamic resident assistants (RAs) show that it does take a village.
AUM’s campus has four separate dormitories: the Commons, Courtyards, Warhawk and P-40. Each dorm offers a variety of accommodations and options that can meet any resident’s preference. In these campus communities, student residents have dedicated RAs on every floor in each building. RAs, who are supervised by resident life coordinators and hired by AUM, play a pivotal role in housing as they are the spokesperson for their student residents.
In an interview, Senior Program Associate Maria Thomas said the job of an RA can be difficult. “It takes three things to work in housing: being a people person, empathy and patience,” she said. Thomas emphasizes patience because it’s easy to become annoyed in a hectic environment. She said she gained more patience herself working with these student residents. Patience is also something that is needed in such an interactive workspace. “Especially with many international students coming into the housing office with questions and they are not fluent in English, so taking the time to address their problem promptly is key with patience,” she said.
Fostering positive relationships build trust, and collaboration and promotes a productive workplace culture. Resident assistant and senior Victoria Salters also added her perspective on the dedication it takes to work as an RA. “Housing is a very hands-on job. The job is strenuous work, but pays off not only by the experience but because of who I work with,” Salters said. Just from hearing this, it is clear it takes a particular kind of person to work under housing. Every member of the staff is friendly and willing to do anything for residents. Beyond daily operations, the whole housing team organizes campus-wide events. Each RA also hosts an event for residents to enjoy in their leisure time.
Overall, the AUM Housing team is an integral part of the campus success. The team strives for a positive, safe and thriving living environment for residents to enhance their college experience.