Expectations of an RA

Although students understand that their RAs are students just like themselves, they sometimes expect their RAs to somehow be above the very concerns and problems that plague them. Be it in the expectation that the RA should always be available to attend to their problems or that it is the RAs duty to, for example, call maintenance, even when the problem is really small enough to be solved by the residents, students expect RAs to be above them in terms of their efficiency in fulfilling the roles of their position. Similarly, administrators, while attuned to the demands placed on the RAs from school work and other commitments, also expect RAs to put forth the full effort even during times when the RA really needs time to attend to other duties. While these expectations are expected (since they are part and parcel of the position), it would be more advantageous to the RAs if they were somehow able to lessen their RA obligations at times such as finals, etc. If I am chosen to be an RA, I will manage the former issue concerning the students by simply doing the best I can, because frankly, there is no other alternative, for explaining the RA’s point of view to the student would only cause the student to lose faith in their RA and would also negate the authority of the RA in maintaining discipline in the house. As for the administrator’s expectations, it is best solved by the most efficient time-management skills. As I suggested above, perhaps I can shift my obligations around, for example, having the required programs a few weeks before finals rather than waiting till the last minute, in order to ensure that I fulfill my role as both a student and an RA.

Firstly, I was surprised that what I thought were my weaker points (model the way and challenge the process) were actually rated much higher by my observers. After considering my results, however, I realized that my observers were more correct than I was in these two areas and were correct in rating me lower in the areas of encourage the heart and enable others to act. Although I do encourage others, I have to consciously remind myself to, whereas I am simply outspoken by nature and motivated to change something that I do not like. Accordingly, modeling and challenging are probably most useful as an RA in terms of creative programming and enacting changes in the residence hall community. Nonetheless, I have to continue working on encouraging others since it is a crucial aspect in terms of being a role model and building teamwork. Having said that, I also think that there are other factors that need to be considered in terms of appropriate leadership. While one resident may need constant encouragement because of her personality, another may need a more aloof model who simply emulates the desired qualities of a community member. As such, I would also add flexibility and malleability as another characteristic that is crucial to key leadership in both the group project and being an RA.