RAs from past and present share their stories!

Residential Assistant (RA) recruitment is upon us! But what does being an RA actually mean?

RAs are Residential Services' student workers. You'll find them working at ResLife events, helping with operations tasks around campus and in halls, and all across our website and social media!

But what is it actually like to be an RA? We've collected testimonials from RAs past and present to offer some insight into the role, and help you decide if being a Residential Assistant is right for you!

Alana's testimonial

I have been a residential assistant for 2 years and it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my time at university. In September, the role consists of preparing for the arrival of new students, ensuring their rooms are clean, safe, and equipped with event timetables, stickers, and free goodies. Once the September rush is over, the role shifts into more event-based work where you will assist with events like giveaways, painting evenings, quiz nights and more. These activities allow for new students to make lifelong friends and lasting memories which is so incredible to be part of. In addition, you have the opportunity to produce content for the Residential Life Instagram and website, and even propose new and exciting event ideas.

Residential Assistants are sometimes the first people that new students come into contact with, which is both a huge responsibility and a rewarding one. Being able to represent the University in such a positive way and helping young people in one of the scariest and most challenging times of their lives is something that no other role is able to give you. The role helped me develop confidence, particularly in public speaking and event coordination, and has allowed me to interact with students from all backgrounds. I have also made lifelong friends within the Residential Assistant team and have gained invaluable experience I am able to transfer to my future career.

For anyone considering applying for the RA role, I would say it is a brilliant opportunity to grow personally, gain valuable professional skills, and make a real difference in the student community. If you are a charismatic, confident, and creative individual who wants to work within an exciting and welcoming team, then being a Residential Assistant is for you.

Nat and Yinghan's testimonial

Deema's testimonial

Working as an RA has genuinely been one of the most flexible and rewarding roles I’ve had. What I appreciated most is how well it fits around university life because it never felt like I had to choose between my studies and my job. The structure of the role gives you a lot of variety: there are regular in-person shifts where you’re interacting with students, and then there’s the opportunity to get involved creating online content and events if you want to take on more.

That level of flexibility meant I could tailor the experience to my strengths and interests. I developed skills in event planning, time management, and teamwork, while also having fun bringing ideas to life for other students. I also had the chance to grow my editing and social media skills by writing articles and creating content. The mix of practical experience and creative freedom made the work genuinely enjoyable.

One of the standout aspects of this role is how open the team is to your ideas and feedback. You’re not just completing tasks, you’re contributing to something that evolves based on input from the people doing the work. And the team itself is such a highlight: welcoming, supportive, and filled with people who end up becoming your friends.

If you’re thinking of applying, I’d absolutely recommend it. It’s the kind of role that not only fits into student life but adds to it in really meaningful ways both personally and professionally.

Hetvi's testimonial

Becoming an RA was something I applied for without fully knowing what I was stepping into, but it quickly became something meaningful and fun part of my university life. It’s not really like most student jobs when you clock in, do the same thing every shift, and clock out. Every shift is like a whole different experience, sometimes you’re helping someone navigate a difficult situation, other times you’re planning events, drafting event plans and having meetings to finalize event details and sometimes you’re just having a reassuring conversation in the hallway. The variety is what makes it so rewarding.

One of the highlights for me during my first year as an RA, was creating and running an event called “Grind & Unwind” where we transformed QM Social into a calm and cozy study space during the exam season. We also offered free coffee, hot chocolate, pastries, and even cute stationery as a reward for completing an hour-long study session! It was an idea I pitched, and with the team’s support, I got to bring it to life. It also enhances your skills like event planning, marketing, teamwork and communication. So if you’re someone who enjoys connecting with people, wants to grow both personally and professionally, and make an impact on campus, being an RA is something I’d absolutely recommend!

Nysa's testimonial

Since starting as a Residential Assistant in January 2025, I can honestly say I have really grown to love the role. I was on the lookout for a part-time job that would let me earn a bit of extra money without taking time away from my studies and social life, and this job has been exactly that. It is flexible, which is so important, especially during exam season when university gets intense. Having the option to step back when things get hectic, when I have travel or when I have other commitments has made a huge difference in helping me stay on top of everything.

What makes this role even more enjoyable is how creative it allows me to be. One of my favorite parts is organizing and executing events for students living in the halls. It is such a good feeling to see people come together, relax, and have fun when you know how stressful university life can be. From game nights to study sessions, these events give everyone (myself included) a break and a chance to connect.

The team vibe is great too. The pay is better than a lot of student jobs, which is a big bonus, but it is the supportive atmosphere that really stands out. The managers are super approachable and always happy to hear new ideas, which makes it easy to be yourself and feel valued. Overall, being an RA has been a positive experience. It has helped me balance university life while giving something back to the student community.

Suryansh's testimonial

Working as a Residential Assistant has been one of the most rewarding parts of my university experience. I’ve had the chance to help organize and support a variety of events, from activities to community building socials. I also had the opportunity to plan one event myself, which gave me a chance to be creative and take ownership of the process. It’s been fulfilling to see students enjoy these events and feel more connected to the residential community.

One of the best aspects of the role has been meeting people from so many different backgrounds. Whether it’s chatting during events or helping someone settle in, the job has made it easy to build meaningful connections. It’s a role that keeps you on your toes, helps you grow in confidence, and gives you the chance to make a real impact in someone else’s university journey.

This experience has also helped me develop important skills in communication, time management, and community engagement, all while balancing academic life. Being part of a team that works to create a welcoming, inclusive environment has been incredibly rewarding. If you’re considering applying, I’d highly recommend it as it’s a role that challenges you in the best way and leaves you with lasting memories.