Develop as a leader. Build community.
Become a Vanderbilt Residential Adviser
Application Opens October 5!
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100+
Student Leaders
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30+
Residence Halls
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Endless
Leadership Skills
Application Roadmap
Step 1
Eligibility Review
Check your alignment with GPA & class status requirements.
Step 2
Attend Info Session
Join us at The Commons or upperclass halls to ask current staff questions.
Step 3
Submit Portal Apps
Upload your updated resume and answer structural prompts in the housing portal.
Step 4
Interview Phase
Participate in individual and dynamic group interview blocks.
New RA Applicant Requirement
All new RA applicants—students who have never previously served as a Resident Adviser—are required to attend at least one RA Information Session during the recruitment period.
Attendance at an Information Session is a required step in the selection process. Applicants who do not attend an Information Session will not be eligible to move forward to the interview or hiring stage.
Multiple Information Sessions will be offered, including a virtual option, to provide applicants with opportunities to meet this requirement.
Recruitment and Selection Dates
| Date | What's Happening |
|---|---|
| Sept. 29 – Oct. 13 | Intent to Return Form — Returning RAs |
| Oct. 5 | RA Application Opens |
| Oct. 1, 7–8 PM | Info Session — Commons 235 |
| Oct. 6, 7–8 PM | Info Session — Kissam 216 |
| Oct. 13, 12–1 PM | Info Session — Commons 235 |
| Oct. 19, 7–8 PM | Info Session — Kissam 216 |
| Oct. 29 | Virtual Info Session — Zoom |
| Nov. 8 at 11:59 PM | RA Application Closes |
| Nov. 10 | Spring 2027 RA Selection |
| Nov. 17 | HRA Interviews — In Person |
| December | Returning RA Selection & Offers |
| Jan. 13, 2027, 4–5 PM | HRE Social Hour — SLC |
| Jan. 30, 2027 | Super Saturday — New RA Interviews |
| Mid-February 2027 | New RA Offers Sent |
| March 23, 2027 | RA Meet & Greet (Mandatory Attendance) — Location TBD |
What Resident Advisers Are Saying
Build Community
"For me being an RA has been a great way to expand my network and build a sense of community on campus. I was not only able to connect with residents from all majors and backgrounds, but also become part of a close-knit HRE family."
– Jasmine, 3rd Year HRA
Meaningful Experiences
"Serving as an RA and HRA was one of the most meaningful parts of my Vanderbilt experience. The mentorship, community, and opportunities to lead through HRE strengthened my confidence, shaped lifelong friendships, and prepared me to lead, take initiative, and serve others.”
– Faisal Khreis, HRA Alumnus
Make Vandy Home
"I've made Vanderbilt home, and I love being able to help others find their place on campus. I love working with my fellow RAs and hanging out with my residents."
– Noah Holiday, 2nd Year RA
Daily Responsibilities and Activities
The current RA position description and HRA position description are available and include the following core responsibilities:
- Duty & Incident Support
- Community Development & Programming
- Campus Partner Collaborations & Building Relationships with Faculty in Residential Colleges
- Student Development through HRE Supervision
2026-2027 Mandatory Dates
Housing and Residential Experience may adjust required dates, responsibilities, or compensation based on departmental and university operational changes. Any changes will be communicated to the 2026–2027 RA/HRA team, along with available options.
For questions about how this role may impact your financial aid, contact the Office of Student Financial Aid & Scholarships.
Want to see more of the RA Experience at Vandy?
For questions, email Selection and Training at RASelection@vanderbilt.edu.
Please allow at least three business days for a response.