The Resident Assistant Application Process
Three Steps to Begin a Rewarding Journey
Step One: The Application
- First, Be sure to check the selection process time line for all important due dates. (Make note of them in your calendar so that you don't find yourself scrambling at the last minute to submit your application before the deadline!)
- Carefully check the desired qualifications and requirements (Do you have the needed ability to relate to other students? Is your GPA where it needs to be?). If you feel you meet these and other listed prerequisites, and are ready to take on a role as a leader in the residence halls, then it's time to begin preparing your application.
- The Department of Residence Services requires that you submit a resume as part of your application. (This is a good time to learn how to put together an effective resume if you have not done so already.) As a key part of the Resident Assistant position is knowledge of campus resources, this is an excellent opportunity to visit Kent State's Career Center for assistance!
- Another requirement of the application process is to complete and upload a typed cover letter to accompany your résumé. It must be in Word (.doc) or PDF format. Your cover letter should explain the reasons for your interest in becoming a Resident Assistant and should briefly relate your own skills and experience to those noted in the “Position Responsibilities” pages of the Recruitment and Selection website (www.res.kent.edu/ra). If you have any questions about how a cover letter should look, please contact the Career Services Center for assistance.
(NOTE: the cover letter replaces an earlier requirement to submit an essay in response to a question about diversity awareness. If you have already uploaded this essay, the cover letter is recommended but not required.)
- To apply for the RA position, you will be required to obtain three references. The forms are available on our website for download. (You can also download the PDF file to your own computer, and send it as an e-mail attachment to persons providing the references if you prefer.) On campus applicants must have at least one full-time KSU faculty or staff member, as well as one Residential Communities employee as references. Off-campus applicants must have at least two full-time KSU faculty or staff members as references. (Family members and relatives should not complete the reference form.)
- Once you have your materials together, and have sent out the reference forms to the appropriate persons, you are ready to access our online application.
- Once you have submitted your application, refer back to the selection process time line to know when you will be informed of your next steps in the process.