As the school year crawls to a close, it opens up plenty of new housing choices for the outgoing first-year students. The year in the dorms may have the less pleasant memories of juggling shower times and the uncomfortable experience of sharing a room, but the RA staff strives to ensure the anxieties fade away and the transition to college life is a good one.

Stevie Leigh is a senior Communications major and has been on RA staff for three years. It isn’t common to get hired on for three – it’s an intense job that can lead to burnout.

Recognizing the importance of the RA role is central to regulating that feeling.

“I got very lucky to be hired as a senior because I showed that I was committed to prioritizing my obligation to the students and being proactive about managing burnout,” Leigh explained.

“For me, I have to remind myself of the influence my RA had on me as a freshman and how lost I would have felt if she totally checked-out,” said Leigh.

Friendships and connections develop between those on staff as well, providing additional support and making it more than just a job.

The relationships I developed during my first year as an RA are what kept me coming back each year. I found a place where I belonged on campus and an opportunity to help others figure out where they belong,” Leigh said.

She added, “Sometimes we have bonding events that are at first uncomfortable but eventually bring us closer together. I also say I hate those but end up loving them.”

Anna Meadows, junior, has been on RA staff for three years and considers the experience overwhelmingly positive. RA selection interviews and information sessions were held in December for the coming academic year.

Making it through RA interviews is no easy feat, and the job can seem daunting. However, Meadows says that RA staff is extremely helpful, and works hard to ensure the success of new RAs.

Meadows shared her advice for new RA staff.

“Be proactive! Everyone on staff is on your team and wants you to succeed. If you’re unsure of specific policy, have never planned a hall party, or just need a reminder on how to rainbow step, find someone to help. Nobody knows what you need until you tell them, so let them know,” Meadows explained.

The role of an RA is broad and important, whether throwing a fun hall party or resolving a roommate conflict. RAs are also available to help residents during their ‘duty’ time, which is a crucial part of the job.

While many students may take for granted the difficulty of being an RA, the staff can be faced with situations that are extremely confidential, sensitive, draining or even life-threatening. While RAs are trained to handle these situations, they do not look forward to crisis.

“I’m very grateful I have never had to deal with any truly high-stakes, life-threatening situations, which is not true for everyone on staff,” Meadows stated.

Despite the challenges of the role, for Meadows, the bonds she shares with her residents are what makes the experience so valuable.

“My favorite part of being an RA has been all of the relationships I’ve made. Seeing my residents grow, succeed, and find their place on campus has been rewarding and makes me feel so proud,” said Meadows.

“Being on RACA staff has brought me some of my best friends, stories, and opportunities from my entire Drury experience.”

Article written by Maclen Johnson and Olivia Thompson