In addition to the Office of Residence Life professional staff, every residence hall is home to Resident Assistants (RAs).
The position of Resident Assistant is one of great responsibility, and also great fulfillment. It requires hard work but is very rewarding and will help to develop and hone skills that will serve you throughout your life. It is one of the most influential jobs a student can have on campus. RAs are the direct representatives in the residence halls for the Office of Residence Life.
RAs are student leaders assigned to individual floors in each hall. They serve as the primary support personnel for all residential students. RAs are thoughtfully selected for their leadership potential, compassion, and skills. They receive extensive training that gives them the ability to assist their fellow residents. RAs create an engaged and vibrant community on each floor. RAs are responsible for creating a sense of community within their building, resolving any group or individual conflicts that might arise, knowing and enforcing the policies of the University, and serving as a resource within the residence hall.
Fall 2025, Spring 2026 RA Recruitment Schedule:
- RA applications available: Mid- October
- RA interest sessions:
- TBD
- TBD
- TBD
- TBD
- RA application deadline to apply: January 30th, 2026
- RA Interviews and Group Process: February 7th, 2026
Resident Assistant Job Application
The resident assistant application for the 25-26 Academic Year is closed.
Frequently Asked Questions about the RA Role and Recruitment Process
- What does the interview look like?
- You will be paired with a professional staff member in residence life and one current Resident Assistant who will ask the interview questions. The interview is estimated to last 30 minutes. All of the interviews this year will be conducted in person on February 8th.
- Is there any information about pay?
- Resident Assistants will receive a discount of 50% of the cost of Room and Board for each semester of employment.
- What exactly is Group Process?
- Group Process is similar to a Group Interview. You will be intertwined with current Resident Assistants and completing a variety of activities and tasks related to the role. Group Process will also take place via Zoom.
- If we are to be chosen for the role, do we pick where we live?
- During the interview process, all applicants will be asked what their building/area preferences are. The selection will take all preferences into account, however, applicants will be placed in the building/area best suited to their talents and strengths.
- What are some of the expectations of RAs?
- RAs should have a strong understanding of SU’s policies and procedures
- RAs must attend weekly staff meetings with building/area staff
- RAs are given the opportunity to create fun and educational programming for residents
- RAs must sit duty in their respective buildings and take rounds of the building.
- RAs are Mandated Reporters
- RAs are expected to return back to campus from Summer and Winter Break for training prior to the start of the semester
If you have any additional questions, please reach out to Residence Life at (540) 665-4611 or reslife@su.edu.
Become a Graduate Hall Director (GHD) at Shenandoah University!
At Shenandoah University, the Office of Residence Life is deeply committed to our students and to creating a strong, supportive campus community.
Our mission centers on fostering meaningful student interactions. Graduate Hall Directors (GHDs) play a vital role in this effort—building inclusive, trusting relationships within our residence halls. Through these connections, our professional staff, GHDs, and Resident Assistants (RAs) can better understand and support students in both their academic journeys and personal growth.
We actively seek GHDs who share our values and are excited to contribute to this important work. Our ideal candidates are:
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Passionate about student engagement and development
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Humble, flexible, and open to feedback
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Dedicated to creating welcoming, inclusive living environments
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Professional and committed to continuous learning
GHDs bring a unique blend of experience and perspective that strengthens our team and helps shape the student experience at Shenandoah. As a GHD, you’ll be empowered to make a real impact—resolving issues, supporting student success, and helping to lead a vibrant, connected residential community.
Are you ready to take on this meaningful leadership role?
Join us in the Office of Residence Life and help create a home where students thrive. You can find the Job Description here!
Fall 2025, Spring 2026 GHD Recruitment Schedule:
- GHD applications available: Mid-April
- GHD application deadline to apply: June 2nd, 2025
- GHD Interviews: Rolling interviews until all available positions are filled.
Graduate Hall Director Job Application
The resident assistant application for the 25-26 Academic Year is open. Please use this link to apply!
Frequently Asked Questions about the RA Role and Recruitment Process
- What does the interview look like?
- After your application has been received, you will be contacted by a staff member to arrange a Zoom interview. You will be paired with up to two professional staff member in residence life who will ask the interview questions via Zoom. The interview is estimated to last 30 minutes. All of the interviews this year will be conducted in person in June
- Is there any information about pay?
- Resident Assistants will receive a discount of 50% of the cost of Room and Board for each semester of employment.
- If we are to be chosen for the role, do we pick where we live?
- During the interview process, all applicants will be asked what their building/area preferences are. The selection will take all preferences into account, however, applicants will be placed in the building/area best suited to their talents and strengths.
- What are some of the expectations of RAs?
- GHDs should have a strong understanding of SU’s policies and procedures
- GHDs must stay within 30minutes of campus when on-duty
- GHDs are preferred to have a personal cellular device and a reliable vehicle
- GHDs are Mandated Reporters
- GHDs are expected to return back to campus from Summer and Winter Break for training prior to the start of the semester
If you have any additional questions, please reach out to Residence Life at (540) 665-4611 or reslife@su.edu.