The primary goal of every RA should be to support the magisters in the smooth and effective running of the college. Although the specific role that any particular RA plays may vary with each individual and college, a successful RA will make continual effort to know the members of the college, be accessible to and serve as a point of contact for all students within the college, and help students understand and access university resources. RAs will encourage and contribute actively to the intellectual, cultural, and social life of the college, develop a clear understanding of university policies and procedures, including emergency response protocols, and assist the college magisters and other university officials in responding to students in need.
RAs are appointed by the Dean of Undergraduates for an initial year in the college. At the end of the first year, RAs are evaluated by their college magisters, who may then recommend a three-year appointment, subject to final approval by the Dean of Undergraduates. The three-year appointment may be repeated once for a maximum total of seven years. However, all RAs will be evaluated each year, and the magisters or the dean may exercise the option of not renewing an appointment at any time. Service is conditioned on satisfactory performance.
- Minimal qualifications for RA candidates:
- Full-time faculty or staff at Rice University
- Employed at Rice for at least one year before start of RA Term
- All RAs must be in good standing in their employment status
- All RAs (including non-Rice RAs) need to satisfactorily complete a background check
- RAs are appointed by the Dean of Undergraduates
Resident Associate openings are announced by the college and the Office of the Dean of Undergraduates. The colleges connect with the dean's office about the format of the search process and coordinate opportunities to meet candidates at programs and events at the colleges. The Office of the Dean of Undergraduates will host RA Information Sessions once openings are announced, which can provide considerably greater detail about the role and responsibilities of RAs. Competitive candidates are selected to interview with the college. The magister(s) select the finalists and the dean's office appoints RAs to their position.
