About 65 new resident assistants hired for fall semester
The application process for becoming a Resident Assistant, one of the most competitive job applications on campus, ended on March 3.
“This year’s pool of candidates really impressed me, which is no easy feat,” said James Span, Kessler and Campbell residence hall director. “The overwhelming majority of them were really engaged and connected to the campus community while achieving or maintaining a commendable grade point average.”
CMU filled 65 new RA positions in residence halls on campus for next fall. About 250 people interviewed for positions. The Multicultural Assistant selection process ended on Feb. 18, when nine job offers for fall 2016 were sent out.
Span worked with Darell Armentrout, Kulhavi Hall director, during the hiring process for Campbell, Kesseler and Kulhavi halls in the Towers.
They interviewed a total of 51 RA and MA applicants for their halls.
Even if a candidate did not receive one of the nine MA offers, there still is a chance they could work as one in the future, said Kim Voisin, Assistant Director of Residence Life.
“(We) identified several other students that would serve as what we call an 'MA free agent,' meaning should there be an MA vacancy at some point within the next several months, they would give strong consideration and (have a good chance of getting hired),” said Voisin.
Kalamazoo freshman Cameron Baker went through the application process and accepted the position as an RA in Cobb residence hall.
There were separate five minute interviews with half of the Residence Hall Directors, which lasted about an hour total, he said.
“The time it takes depends on how many residence halls invite you back for secondary interviews," Baker said. "Each secondary interview lasts approximately 20 minutes.”
Span said he looks for specific qualities in a future hall staff members.
“(In an RA), I look for evidence of a strong work-ethic, that they are internally motivated and genuinely enjoy being with and around people, and are in possession of specific qualities and characteristics that complement my returning staff members,” he said.
Baker is confident he has the qualities of a good RA.
“To prepare for my interview I simply made sure I looked my best and stayed confident," Baker said. "I'm a very outgoing person and I love meeting new people and fostering relationships with them. I'm very optimistic and eccentric as well. I think all of these qualities would make me an excellent RA."
Span said he looks for candidates who are personable, approachable and outgoing.
“In addition to the same things I look for in a potential RA," he said. "I also look for candidates who have an apparent awareness of the importance diversity and diversity education plays in the personal growth of our residents."
