A resident assistant's main objective is to advocate for residents and provide resources and support. He develops positive relationships with residents and encourages open communication on a variety of issues related to residential life. He listens to residents and offers support and advice regarding academic and personal issues. A resident assistant disseminates information such as school policies and refers students to different departments within the institution as needed. A resident assistant regularly meets with residents to discuss policies and procedures, share information and enable students to discuss questions and concerns. He shares all communications from institution professionals and organizations. He must also complete the necessary procedures when residents violate institution and residence facility policies. He must respond to unfavorable behavior and actions and communicate the institution's policies and values.
A resident assistant fosters community development by creating a living area where all residents are comfortable and able to focus on academic studies. She provides an introduction and orientation to new students and ensures they understand the necessary policies and procedures and are familiar with the facilities and resources. A resident assistant strives to learn all names and interests of residents and get to know them on a personal level to create a sense of community. She helps students access services and resources to meet academic goals and personal needs. She also assists with planning community activities to help residents get to know each other. A resident assistant must act as a good role model by displaying positive academic practices and good personal behavior.
A resident assistant completes a variety of administrative tasks to make sure residence facilities are operating smoothly. He completes inventories of rooms, weekly reports on activities, assists with room inspections and completes all necessary paperwork. He also checks students in and out of resident facilities. A resident assistant reports the concerns and problems presented by residents to a designated contact such as the Director of Residential Life. He also completes reports on maintenance and repair issues.