“I know a few R.A.s that actually talk with all their residents frequently and it is appreciated.”

Resident Assistants are on call day and night for students housed on the floors they manage. They provide mediating, organization and, for the most part, fun.

It's true, R.A.s are not just enforcement officials within the residence halls. Planning nights of food, games, movies and decorating is second-nature to these entertainment-seekers.

Normally, it’s difficult to find time to attend these events. I managed to make it to t-shirt dying night this year. With no greeting from the R.A. as I entered, a shirt was handed to me with little direction. I half-heartedly made my shirt in five minutes, and left to go mingle with people I already knew. I did a full-on hit-and-run with the event.

I’m not the only one to share in this experience. I polled 30 students from universities such as Drake, Minnesota, private Lutheran colleges and the various University of Wisconsin schools. I asked them to describe events they’ve attended, how many people attend and what an R.A. can do to attract more students.

University of Wisconsin-Lacrosse’s Kayla Wasemiller said, “I know a few R.A.s that actually talk with all of their residents frequently, and it’s appreciated. When you never see your R.A., you don't really know what to think about them.”

Many others agreed with Kayla. The R.A.s who take the time to get to know students as an equal rather than on a domineering basis have better attendance rates.

Josh Christiansen of UW-Milwaukee agreed with Kayla. “I just don't really like my R.A. much, otherwise I'd probably look into some of his events,” he said.

How can an R.A. become a college student’s friend? For starters, the majority polled stated food and other types of incentives catch their eye.

“College kids have a hard time turning down food,” said Minnesota's Kristy McFaul. Free food will attract hungry college kids as fast as candy being thrown from parade floats attracts children. However, a few students mentioned that if the occasion is not interesting, it will become a hit-and-run, much like my case with the tie-dying night.

Events students mentioned that were highly attended and enjoyed included a spa night, reality TV gatherings, crafting, food socials (including a root beer keg and float social) and watching sporting events in the house commons (food and beverage included, of course). By providing events of higher interest, R.A.s have a better chance of holding attendance instead of being eaten out of house and home.

Some students will never be interested in any event no matter how much the R.A. tries, short of giving away free money, that is. But, there is one thing previously mentioned that I, as well as students from across the nation, agree on.

If an R.A. takes the time to get personal with the students they house, event planning will come with much more ease. Students will become open to helping with planning, and food will not be the sole reason for attending. Get ready R.A.s: it's time to get personal.

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