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FAQs for Resident Assistants

Who is eligible to become a RA?
RAs at Villanova are traditionally juniors, seniors, and graduate students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, interpersonal, organizational, and decision-making skills. Rising sophomores are encouraged to apply for the RA Mentor Program (RAMP) to develop the skills necessary for a RA position. Because of the academic demands of the Law School, First Year Law students are generally discouraged from applying.
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When can I apply for a RA position?
Applications are generally available during the months of December and January each year. Click here for key dates.
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How do I apply?
For detailed instructions on applying, please click here. In December through January, you will be directed to your NOVASIS account where you can apply online and select an interview time. Also, plan to attend an Information Session to find out more information about applying for a RA position. Click here for the key dates, which can also be found advertised on campus.
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How long are the interviews?
RA Interviews last approximately 2 hours in either a morning or afternoon session. The interview consists of both an individual interview and a group process activity with other RA candidates.
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What are the benefits of becoming a Resident Assistant?
Resident Assistants receive a waiver of room charges and a meal plan that varies depending on your assignment to a traditional residence hall or apartment.  In addition, RAs return to campus a week before classes begin in August to receive intensive training in conflict resolution, crisis management, leadership, programming, counseling, and more. The experience of being a leader and helper among peers is often the most rewarding benefit of the position.
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I am an incoming graduate student and missed the selection process. Can I still apply?
Graduate applicants who missed RA Interviews in February are welcome to email the Assistant Director for Staff Training & Development with a copy of their resume and a letter of intent. Please note that applicants who missed RA Interviews can be initially considered for a RA Alternate position only. RA Alternates may be invited to join the RA staff in the event of a vacancy.
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Do you offer graduate assistantships?
No. Compensation for a Resident Assistant consists of a waiver of room charges and a stipend to be applied toward the meal plan of your choice. The Office for Residence Life does employ 16 Head Residents, who are traditionally seniors and graduate students and who have at least one year of experience as a RA at Villanova. In addition to the above compensation, Head Residents also receive a stipend.
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What is a Head Resident? Can I apply to be one?
A Head Resident is generally a senior or graduate student who has been a RA at Villanova for at least a year. The Head Resident is responsible for the oversight and leadership of a residence hall or small group of residence halls. Their responsibility includes immediate supervision of the RA staff within their designated building(s). Head Residents are traditionally selected from the current RA staff through an internal application process. Outside candidates who are interested in a Head Resident position should apply for a regular RA position and indicate their interest to the Assistant Director for Staff Training & Development.
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I am going abroad in the Spring and will miss the RA Interviews. Can I still apply?
Yes. The Office for Residence Life accepts applications in November from all students who are going abroad in the spring semester. RA Interviews for these students are generally held on the Sunday before Thanksgiving break. If you would like more information, please email Jennifer Derry.
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Who can I contact if I have questions?
Please email Jennifer Derry, Assistant Director for Staff Training & Development.