LIVING on-Grounds in one of the University's many residential facilities is an exciting way for students to immerse themselves in the University community, to meet new people and to continue learning beyond the doors of New Cabell, Small or Campbell Hall. Of course, living in a dorm with a group of new people -- often ones from very different backgrounds -- can also be an intimidating experience as students adjust to the demands of college life and the often rough terrain of negotiating shared space. This is where Resident Staff comes in; whether you are in Alderman Road, McCormick Road, upper-class suites and apartments or one of the university's unique residential colleges (focused communities), you have a Resident Staff member who is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive and welcoming community in your dorm.
Resident Staff members provide an introduction to the University, its values, traditions, resources and organizations for every first-year student, as well as offer continuing guidance in these areas for students living on-Grounds in upper-class and focused communities.
Resident Staff members are guided by five core values in their interaction with residents: collaboration, empowerment, personal accountability, critical thinking and multiculturalism.
Informed by these values and an awareness of the particular challenges first years and upper-class students face, they seek to support their residents through these challenges while guiding them to confront issues and each other, rather than providing easy answers; residence staff promote and support student self-governance in the dorms to allow students to establish ownership of their communities, and ultimately of their University experience.
Resident Staff members serve as resources for their residents, answering questions about how to get around Grounds, providing support and guidance in the transition to first year (and beyond), and in responding to the crises and challenges that occur during our time here. They undergo a rigorous selection process and receive intensive training in order to provide the best possible assistance to their residents and the University community.
The student staff members are supported by the office of residence life, which is part of the office of the vice president for student affairs. The deans and many professionals in this office are dedicated to ensuring the residents at the University feel comfortable in their dorm communities, and help the Resident Staff members create those communities.
Some parting advice: get to know your RA or RC. They are excited about getting to know you and have a lot of information, insight and University experience that will help you have an amazing year.
Ashley Belyea and Jane Anderson are the co-chairs of Resident Staff.
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