Resident assistants work to help and engage students residing in campus housing. University Housing organizes activities such as Paint Party that RAs work for the benefit of residents. The position requires RAs to be leaders that can aid resident students even in the middle of the night. Some RAs decided to take the position to become more involved on campus or to interact with new people.
Annie Goodman/The Lion’s Roar
 

Resident assistants, more commonly known as RAs, are the student workers who assist with all dorm problems and needs of the student body. 

Senior psychology major Dequaz Humphries explains why he decided to become an RA.

“I decided to become an RA because it was a great way to become involved on campus,” said Humphries. “I saw how much of an impact they had on Southeastern, and I was truly captivated and inspired to lead in this capacity.”

Raegan Varnado, a junior social work major describes her favorite parts of being an RA.

“Definitely the people I get to work with,” said Varnado. “I am constantly meeting new people from all backgrounds and majors through my job.”

Varnado also breaks down some of her favorite moments from her RA responsibilities. 

“Working the Oktoberfest and Fais Do Do events that we put on as a committee within Housing is my favorite thing to do,” said Varnado. “I get to engage with residents in a different setting. I love watching everyone enjoy the events we work so hard to put on. Another thing I really enjoy is giving tours of resident halls. I love to talk to future Southeastern students about our department and ways they can plug in on campus.”

Being an RA requires some nights where they are on call 24 hours, and they also have many daily responsibilities. Being an RA is not the typical 25 hours a week student worker positon. Despite all the work that is required, Humphries focuses on what he gains by being an RA.  

“I gain the opportunity to be the best leader that I can be on a daily basis,” said Humphries. “I learn more and more about myself and how I should lead from not only working with my fellow RAs on Housing’s Recruitment Committee. This has truly been an experience that is worthwhile.”