Working for Residential Programs

Who we are...

The Residential Programs professional staff, supervised by the Assistant Dean for Community Development and Residential Programs and the Director of Residential Programs, consists of five Associate Directors, one Assistant Director for Fraternity and Sorority Life, and twelve graduate assistants (GA).

The Office of Residential Programs is committed to providing learning opportunities that support the academic mission of the Undergraduate Schools. The experiences afforded to students in residence must help promote their intellectual, social, emotional and interpersonal growth and development. We foster environments that allow for the expression of individuality balanced with a shared sense of responsibility for the Columbia community.

The paraprofessional staff of Residential Programs includes 133 students as Resident Advisers (RAs) and Community Advisers (CAs). Among the entire population of 5,500 undergraduate students, our RAs and CAs emerge as leaders within the Columbia community. RAs and CAs are critical in carrying out the mission of the Office of Residential Programs. RAs develops a healthy community by focusing on the growth and development of each individual on their hall and is expected to promote an environment conducive to the overall wellness needs of the residents. CAs are leaders among the Residential Programs staff and are returning staff members who use their experience to foster growth and development within the team and are expected to promote an environment conducive to the overall wellness needs of the RAs.

Who we want...

We want current first-years, sophomores, and/or juniors who would like to make a difference in the Columbia Community. We want students who are leaders or hope to be leaders by shaping our residence halls as vibrant, educational communities. We look for creative and energetic students who are strong team players and good listeners. We seek undergraduates open to gaining new skills - such as community development, conflict resolution, programming – through the experience of being an RA or CA.

Why you want to be an RA or CA...

You will gain skills and experiences that are transferable in all types
of careers. You will learn how to problem solve, effective time
management, how to work within a larger team as well as cultivate
collegial and professional relationships.

You will be part of a fabulous team of 133 RAs/CAs, 13 Graduate
Assistants, and 9 full-time administrators who all work to make the
Columbia residential experience the best it can be. You will assist in
introducing new students to the Columbia community and foster
relationships amongst upperclass students who are your residents or live
in your building. You will forge friendships and connections that you
will value beyond your years at Columbia. Whether placed in the
first-year area or in upperclass housing, you will have the opportunity
to make a difference in campus life.

You will receive a compensation package of a $600 stipend and a free room.

Requirements...

Candidates for Residential Program positions must be current CC or SEAS first-years, sophomores, or juniors who have guaranteed housing. Candidates must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and must be in good academic and behavioral standing.