What It Means to Be a Resident Assistant (RA)
Being a Resident Assistant (RA) is about more than just living in the residence halls—it’s about building a home for others. RAs are student leaders who create welcoming, inclusive, and engaging communities that help students thrive socially, academically, and personally.
Being an RA means choosing to lead with purpose. It means showing up for your community, creating space for others to belong, and developing skills that last far beyond your time in the halls.
Here’s what it really means to be an RA:
A Community Builder: You bring people together—from hosting programs and events to simply knocking on doors and saying hello. You help students feel seen, supported, and part of something bigger.
A Support System: When someone’s having a rough day or needs help figuring things out, you're there. You listen without judgment and connect residents to the resources they need.
A Role Model: You lead with integrity and treat others with respect. As someone students look up to, you help set the tone for what it means to live and learn in community.
A First Responder: Whether it’s a roommate conflict or a facilities issue, you’re trained to handle unexpected situations and respond calmly and responsibly.
A Bridge: You help residents navigate the transition to college life and understand university expectations—while also learning and growing right alongside them.
Below are some reflections from former RAs who share what this experience meant to them—and how it shaped their personal and professional journey.
Ian
Hometown: Orchard Park, NY
Major: Accounting, Accounting Systems and Analytics
Extracurriculars: Tutor, President of Art Club, President of Accounting Society
"I became an RA to immerse myself in the Canisius community and enhance my campus experience. Living on campus opens up countless opportunities, and when I learned that RAs receive room and board, I couldn’t pass up the chance. I was eager to build connections with various campus resources and explore aspects of campus life that I hadn’t yet experienced. Being an RA is incredibly rewarding because it allows me to connect with students and serve as a valuable resource in their lives. We are often the first point of contact for students facing challenges, and being that bridge between them and campus resources is very fulfilling. I love seeing the impact of my support firsthand.”
Vivian
Hometown: Nigeria
Major: Computer Science
Extracurriculars: Women's Club Soccer, Dance Dynasty, NSBE.
"I became an RA to help students feel at home, build a positive community, and grow my leadership skills while making a difference on campus. I enjoy being an RA because I love meeting new people, supporting them, and creating a fun, welcoming space for everyone."
Amy
Hometown: Amherst, NY
Major: Biochemistry and Psychology, Pre-Med track
Extracurriculars: President of the Pep Band, Tour Guide, Tutor, Teaching Assistant
"I became an RA because I wanted to gain leadership experience and challenge myself to work with people different from me. I also love being creative and planning fun events so I felt that being an RA would be perfect for me! I can honestly say that I love being an RA. Not only do you build a community for the residents on your floor, but you also gain a family with the other RA's and the Office of Student Life. Everyone is so welcoming and eager to help you, and I have never regretted taking this position."