By: Grace Gross, Lead Editor
Photography collected by Grace Gross
“The Office of Residence Life plays a vital role in supporting the academic mission of McKendree University by creating an atmosphere that encourages holistic development” (McKendree Residence Life). Residence Life, referred to as Res Life, is here to provide you with a safe residential community while promoting student success.
As a student, when can you be a part of the Res Life community?
Currently! Res Life is accepting student applicants for the Fall 2024 school year. There are two positions available: Resident Assistant (RA) and Student Academic Mentor (SAM). By clicking on the desired position, you will be taken to the position description and employment agreement document. Here you can find specifics related to each position! The application deadline is February 28th.
Students who work for Res Life have the opportunity to develop professional and life skills, meet new people, get involved, and gain valuable experience.
This is my second semester as a Student Academic Mentor. Here’s what I’ve learned: being an SSM (student staff member) is entertaining. Res Life has brought me new friends, knowledge, and experience. Everyone involved in Res Life will tell you that they do it because of their peers and mentors involved, and they are completely right!
Another plus is that you can express your creativity freely, whether it is decorating your hall, a bulletin board, door decorations, flyers, and so much more!
Why should YOU apply to be a student staff member (SSM)?
Xander McWhorter, first-year RA for Walton Hall third floor, gives reasons why one should apply to Res Life: “Beyond the remuneration provided by the university, being free housing, you should apply to be an RA for the social benefits. As an RA I find it hard to go a day without running into someone I know or who knows me. It’s easy to increase your social web and connections both inside and outside of the university.
Similar to their explanation above, Xander states, “I really enjoy knowing and getting to know the residents of my area.”
Advice for future SSMs
RA Xander wants you to know that you should be yourself! “This role allows for creativity through various mediums of leadership, professional attitude, and personality types. The biggest disservice you can do to yourself is put on a fake smile, so be yourself!”
