Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I want to become a Resident Assistant. What do I do and when?
A: First read the job description and attend an information session to get your questions answered. Talk to current RAs to see what the job is all about. Complete the application above and turn into the Student Life Office by January 16, 2010 by 4:30 p.m. Remember to watch other important dates as you go through the rest of the process.

Q: What is involved in the selection process?
A: The first step is to turn in a complete application in the Student Life Office by January 16, 2010 by 4:30pm. When you turn in your completed application you should sign up for a group process night and an individual interview. The next step is to participate in the group process on either Sunday, January 24th or Wednesday, January 28th. The final step is to participate in a 30 minute individual interview at the designated time you signed up for between February 1st -19th

Q: What are the RA information sessions? What if I can't attend one?
A: The information sessions are an opportunity to learn more about the RA position, provide insight to the selection process, and ask any questions you may have.  This year the four informational sessions will all be held in McCoy West in the Student Center at 7:00pm January 11th, 12th, 13th & 14th.  While we encourage you to attend, it is not necessary for the application process.

Q: What compensation will I get for being an RA?
A: You will receive a stipend for the year. The 09-10 stipend was approximately $3695. This stipend will be divided and paid to you over the course of the academic year on a monthly basis. You can put the stipend towards the cost of your room/board or you can use the money as you wish. As an RA, you are also provided with a single room at the cost of a double room rate.

Q: How do I apply if I want to study abroad during the 2010-2011 academic year (excluding May Term)?
A: If you plan to study abroad or attend Wartburg West at anytime during the 2010-2011 academic year (excluding May Term), you are ineligible to apply for an RA position. Contracts are granted for a full year and we only consider candidates that can commit to the full academic year.

Q: How do I apply if I plan to student teach or work in an internship during the 2010-2011 academic year?
A: Being an RA requires commitment and dedication. These academic commitments have high expectations and it can be challenging to coordinate with the RA job requirements. It is not impossible to student teach/work in an internship and be a RA at the same time. Careful consideration is needed because of the importance of RA training in the Fall and required attendance at other RA functions.

Q: I participate in sports. Can I still be an RA?
A: Our experience has been that being in a fall sport and coordinating the required attendance at fall training is difficult. Being an RA requires commitment and dedication. Careful consideration is needed because many athletics teams at Wartburg have high expectations when it comes to practice, matches, meets, and training; although it is not impossible to participate in athletics and be an RA at the same time.

Q: Can I mail my completed application or references?
A: YES, you can mail your completed application to Vickey Klunder c/o Residential Life Department at 100 Wartburg Blvd, Waverly, IA 50677. But, remember you’ll still need to come in to the Office of Student Life to sign up for both a group & an individual interview time.

Q: What happens if I don't complete part of the selection process or if I miss a deadline?
A: As part of the RA job, it is important to meet deadlines and fulfill the given tasks completely. Therefore, tardy and incomplete work will be taken into account.

Q: Can I apply...

in my first-year for a Fall 2010-Spring 2011 position?
A: YES, as long as you have completed two full semesters at Wartburg College by the time you take the job.
as a transfer student for a Fall 2010-Spring 2011 position?
A: YES, provided you have lived on-campus at your previous institution.
if I was documented for violating a College policy?
A: We encourage taking responsibility and growing from experiences. A violation does not eliminate you from the process, but it is important to show your development from that experience. There is a place on the application form where it is appropriate to do so. If your sanctions have all been completed and passed at the time you submit your application, you will be able to continue in the process granted there are no further violations.

Q: Who can I talk to if I have further questions?
A: You can contact Allison Juhl, Assistant Director of Residential Life, at ext. 8553 or via email at allison.juhl@wartburg.edu.