Transitioning from high school to your freshman year of university can be a stressful yet exciting experience. You have the opportunity to meet new people and study subjects that interest you, but dealing with homesickness, juggling classes, and navigating your way through campus is challenging. Luckily, Resident Assistants are there to serve as guides to all things college! RAs take on the role of mentor for their residents by connecting them to campus resources, making sure building policies are being followed, and creating a sense of community.
Jessica Urban, senior nursing major, has had the unique experience of not only being an RA for three years but also serving as the Head Resident Assistant of Kelly Hall. “Overall, we just aim to create a home away from home that is inclusive, safe, and comfortable for all residents,” Jess said.
Being a Head RA entails serving as an intermediary between the RAs and the Resident Director for the building, as well as acting as a mentor for RAs and encouraging team bonding among the staff.
Holding the Head RA position has been a highlight in Jess’ time at Drexel. “It has offered me more opportunities for personal growth than I ever anticipated was possible. It has challenged me to push the boundaries of my comfort zone and in doing so has helped me find a newfound confidence in my abilities as a leader. In addition, this position has allowed me to meet so many incredible people. Everyone in the residential living office has become like family to me and I am so thankful to have met some really great lifelong friends,” she said. One of Jess’ favorite parts about being an RA in general has been the opportunity to participate in yearly RA training sessions. Every year during training Drexel’s 100+ RAs get to go to camp where they have team bonding and even a talent show!
Unfortunately, being an RA comes with some obstacles. Jess says one of the most challenging aspects of the position is trying to create a sense of community among the residents on the floor despite their various backgrounds, majors, interests, and schedules. Juggling this responsibility along with your academic, extracurricular, and professional life can be tough. “But,” she said, “figuring it all out and seeing your floor community flourish [and] your hard work pay off is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding experiences.“
Post-graduation, Jess plans on traveling as much as possible and working as a pediatric nurse in the Philadelphia area. Other than her passion for student affairs, Jess is also interested in dancing, writing, doing service projects, trying new things, meeting new people, and seeing new places.
For any aspiring RAs, Jess advises only applying if you are genuinely interested. “The people who I have seen have the best experiences as an RA are those who are passionate about the position and truly want to embrace all it has to offer. As far as the actual application process goes, just be yourself!”
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If interested in becoming an RA for the 2015-2016 school year, head on over to Drexel’s Student Affairs website to read more about the selection process.
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