Frequently Asked Questions

Consult with the Area Coordinators and current RAs about the job and differences between halls. Get out and explore different halls. Don't assume that "XYZ" hall is the only and best place for you if that is the only place you have ever lived.

Pick people with whom you have had contact through volunteering, working, or other regular interaction. They will be able to give the best reference. Choose an RA or AC that you know well and can talk highly of you. A faculty or staff member that knows your work ethic and can let ResLife know how great you are (Faculty/staff members also include Smooth Transition Mentors, FYE Mentors, ASC Mentors and Tutors, etc).

NOTE 1: Before you write someone down as a reference, first ask them if you can use them as a reference. This is simply professional etiquette!

NOTE 2: Reference information on you may also be obtained from advisors, supervisors, ACs, etc. who are not listed on your application, as well as from information posted on Facebook and other public resources.

For upper-class students, we will proceed based on your latest term, and any grade notifications following mid terms. For First Year students we will proceed with your midterm notations. A full grade report will be run and all candidates will receive email notification updates.

Yes. Facebook is "in the public domain" and is used across Albion College and many campuses by faculty and staff. For Albion College Residential Life, role modeling responsible behavior and ability to follow and enforce college policy are important hiring criteria. Applicants are encouraged to evaluate their Facebook and other online profiles as they decide how they want to present themselves to others. A student's profile ideally matches the person he or she is.

Yes. International students may work as RAs. However, international students should contact the Center for International Education if they have questions about their visas.

It depends. Every case is different. Please consult with an AC or the Director for Residential Life in order to discuss it further. Regardless, while employed, staff members will be disciplined up to and including discharge if they violate any College policies or procedures.

No. The RA stipend is based on a 20 hour work week. Therefore, RAs are not eligible for other campus employment. RAs are also not allowed to work elsewhere in Albion or surrounding communities during the academic year. You may hold part-time employment/seasonal employment during break periods away from campus.

Fall Training is a two-week period before the Fall semester begins in which the entire RA staff is trained on a variety of topics during the day, and then individual buildings do their training in the evenings. There is a lot of information covered during this time, but there are also a lot of group activities and team builders so you can get to know your new staff.

RA Training covers topics like Policies, Crisis Management, Community Building, On-Campus Resources, Fire Safety, and more. There is also several days in which RAs are able to practice what they have learned through scenarios and skits.

An RA has three set events each week. They are typically on-call at least once a week, they have a 1-on-1 meeting with their supervisor, and there is a staff meeting. Once a month they design a new bulletin board, and they are able to put on community programs as needed. The majority of the time commitment is spending time with the residents and addressing any needs or issues they may have.