The Rewards and Hard Work of a Resident Assistant

Story by: Sydney Fields

Every Residence Hall has a Resident Assistant, or more commonly referred to as an R.A. These people are who the residents go to for any issue they have in the halls whether it involves maintenance problems, roommate disputes, or any other issues.

Their job also includes putting on different programs each semester for the residents to attend as well as enforcing the rules. R.A.s get a stipend each month as well as a free room in the halls.

Olivia spending time with her residents

Olivia Ricks is the R.A. for the 2nd floor of Hanson Hall at The University of Montevallo. Olivia says the positives of being an R.A. definitely outweighs the negatives,

"I get to be introduced to a lot of girls on campus, they're all interesting, everyone is very diverse, and everyone has different interests and hobbies."

Taryn Woodgett, a junior resident in Hanson Hall enjoys the programs as well as game nights because she builds relationships not only with her friends, but also with her R.A., "It means a lot to have a good relationship with my R.A. because I know that I can come to her just to talk or if I have any concerns with anything in the building."

In addition to the fun events, R.A.s have a list of duties that must be completed each night as they do their rounds.

Assuring the fire extinguisher's gage is filled

"I check all of the emergency exits, make sure that they are sounding, check the fire escapes, make sure the fire extinguishers are filled the way they are supposed to be filled."

Olivia says even though her job can be tough at times, seeing her residents bloom and grow is what makes it all worth it at the end of the day.