RA (Programming Responsibilities)

Job Responsibilities: The key to successful programming is to talk to your residents. Resident Assistants should work to maintain open communication between student, staff, and the University. RAs will help advise, plan, and involve students in the development of programs. RAs are asked to sponsor four programs each semester in a variety of areas. By establishing a working relationship with students, the Resident Assistant will involve students in the ongoing development of the community. Also, the Resident Assistant can identify and encourage potential leaders within the area to take their own initiative in planning programs. RAs, in some areas, may have a committee assignment project and a total of three programs instead of four. Most common encounters with residents that require you to be a programmer:
  • Floor or building meetings
  • Floor or building socials
  • Faculty dinners
  • Service projects
  • Educational programs
  • Bulletin boards, flyers, and other "passive programs."
  • Advising hall government to do their own programs
  • Assisting residents in your area to take the leadership in planning program topics
  • Inviting faculty or staff to a gathering of residents to discuss an issue.
Training you are given for being a programmer:
  • Prospective candidates are interviewed and assessed on their willingness to educate others in a structured format (or, program). Candidates are also assessed on their knowledge of campus issues, and the importance of programming in the residential community setting.
  • Fall training workshops include sessions on programming including exploring the needs of First Year, Second Year, and Upper Class students.
  • Discussions on programming throughout training and in the RA In-Services
  • Emphasis on publicity, assessing students" needs, and following certain steps to develop your programs
What happens if programming is not my strength? If it is not your strength, then someone else will help you. Many RAs co-program with other RAs and share half of the work. Cooperating with another RA gives you twice the audience base - you reap twice the rewards!

We encourage all staff members to become comfortable speaking in front of a group and facilitate their own programs. This role models to students the positive impact of using peers to explore knowledge. Also, we encourage the partnership with faculty in bringing certain issues to out-of-class experience. Consult with your supervisor to make the appropriate connections with other faculty and staff who want to help you be successful in your role as a programmer.

How will my programming experience apply to a future job after graduation?
  • Public speaking.
  • Meeting and discussion leadership.
  • Evaluation of the effectiveness of your programs shows a willingness to grow and learn as you work.
  • Encouraging residents to do their own programs shows how you encourage your team members to grow in autonomy and self-leadership while following the goals you established for the organization.
  • Fliers, bulletin boards, use of web pages, and other methods for publicity and education demonstrate a creative edge to your work.
  • Co-programming with other staff members demonstrates positive teamwork.