Applying to be a New RA

The Process

The deadline for submitting the RA application is listed below in the important dates section. You must complete the application and submit it to the Residence Life Office by the specified deadline date.

References

Every applicant is required to have two character references. The application will direct you to list those reference names and their full email addresses. Once your application has been submitted, an email with the character reference form will automatically be sent to each of your references to complete. These references should be individuals who are familiar with you and can comment on your leadership abilities, work performance, etc. It is appropriate to use past employers, pastors, faculty or staff members, or any adult who knows you well and has had an opportunity to observe you in various roles. Do not list another student, RA, or RD.

In addition, a third reference will be required from your current RA. The application will prompt you to list the name and email of your current RA. Upon submission, your RA will be emailed the RA character reference form to complete.

Basic Requirements for the Position

There are specific basic requirements to be able to apply and be interviewed for an RA position. Be sure you meet the basic requirements before filling out an application:

• Actively engaged in and committed to your faith in Jesus Christ.
• Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
• Must have lived in campus housing for two semesters (at least one at UMHB.)
• Enrolled in a minimum of 12 hours and a maximum of 18 hours unless preapproved by the Director of Residence Life (an exception for lower hours can be made for the last graduation semester).
• Must commit to a full academic year (dates of position: July 28, 2024-May 9, 2025).
• Be in good standing with the University. You cannot apply if you are currently on academic or disciplinary probation.

RA Interest Gatherings

RA Interest Gatherings will be held in each living area on campus (Though these meetings are not required for RA candidates to attend, it is strongly recommended. Please select the date that best fits your schedule.). Attend one or attend them all, it's up to you. All RA candidates are welcome to come and meet the RAs and RDs and learn more about the RA role and requirements. Follow us on Instagram @umhbreslife for specific locations and times.

The Interview

All applicants are required to attend two interviews.

The first interview will be a group interview in which you will work with other new applicants in a group setting to accomplish a task. The Resident Directors will observe how you work in a group setting.

Your second interview will be with selected Residence Life professionals. You will be directed to a link after you have completed your RA application to sign up for this panel interview.

You should dress professionally for both interviews, as for any other interview. However, the group interview is not as formal, so jeans are appropriate. For tips on interviewing, you can contact UMHB Career Services in Mabee.

After all the interviews, the RD’s will be given time to make their decisions. You will be notified of the decisions as soon as they are made. Please note that if an offer is made to you by Residence Life and your response is no, you will not receive another offer.

Compensation

The compensation for RA’s will be titled “RA Scholarship” on the financial aid award letter. The position is no longer part of the student work program.

• Apartment RAs: Head RA (HRA) receives $3,250 per semester. Regular RA receives $2,250 per semester.
• Traditional Hall RAs: Head RA (HRA) receives $3,750 per semester. Regular RA receives $2,750 per semester.

Please note that RA's are not allowed to have a work-study and the RA positions.