Resident Advisors Needed for Prairie Place

Governors State University's new student housing project is well underway, and the university is currently looking for Resident Advisors. The position is open to grad and undergrad students with a minimum 2.5 GPA and at least 2 completed semesters at GSU or another institution at the time of employment in August 2014. Applications are due to Student Housing by 5 p.m. on December 6.

"We are very selective in who we accept for this position," says Slandie Dieujuste, Assistant Director of Auxiliary Services and University Housing. "We're looking for those students who not only want to work in housing for the benefits, but because they truly care and want to make a difference."

In addition to their application, interested students must submit letters of recommendation and complete a face to face interview. Applicants will also complete a group process interview in which they will be placed in groups and complete observed activities, and a background check will be completed on successful candidates. Potential Resident Advisors must be available to serve both Fall 2014 and Spring 2015.

Resident Advisors will have a number of responsibilities. Not only will they be the student leaders and role models in the hall, but they will be trained to respond to emergencies and to mediate conflicts.

"This is a very special student position," says Dieujuste "It's really one like no other that currently exists at GSU."

The position is also one of the best compensated on campus. In addition to a free room, Resident Advisors will earn $500 per semester on their myOneCard for meal expenses and other purchases where the card is accepted. There will also be opportunities to earn hourly wages, as well as stipends for work done during break periods.

"I hope students really think about this opportunity," says Dieujuste. "This is one of the few positions where they can get hands-on experience and learn to deal with people. They will learn conflict resolution, communication skills, and time management. All of which are skills that they will be able to use in life and in other jobs."

Dieujuste hopes to wrap up the whole process before spring break of 2014. Resident Advisors will be able to move into student housing in the summer, although the exact date is yet to be determined. Early move-in for freshmen will be August 10, with the official move-in date on August 21. Resident Advisors will move in early to complete training and be ready for the opening and a successful year.

GSU will host three mandatory information sessions for Resident Advisor recruitment. While two have already taken place, there is an upcoming session on October 29 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.. All potential Resident Advisors must attend one session.

"We want to equip students with as much information as possible so that they know what they're applying for and can make an informed decision," says Dieujuste. "You really have to want to do it, and want to help others to be really successful. It's one of those experiences that really change a person's life."