Letter from Residence Life Director

November 6, 2007

Dear Student Staff Applicant,

Congratulations, you have taken the first step to becoming a student staff member for University Housing at the University of Oregon. The staff and I want to thank you for your interest in joining our team. This application packet will begin your process for student staff selection. I encourage you to thoroughly review and become acquainted with the details of the selection process and the many facets of being a staff member within the residence halls.

University Housing is responsible for creating a living-learning environment that contributes to the success of all students living in the residence halls. We are looking for individuals with a strong commitment to community living, and who are willing to develop positive, caring relationships with other students. The biggest priority for student staff in the residence halls is to help build communities that are respectful, inclusive, and positive environments for all students to enjoy their University of Oregon experience. You can be a part of helping create these dynamic and vital communities.

Having worked with student staff for over twenty years, I know these positions can be challenging and time consuming; but most student staff have acknowledged that it is the best experience they have ever had. As a student staff member in the Department of Residence Life, you will have the opportunity to engage in active problem solving, to experience leadership, to build diverse and respectful communities, to help foster learning outside of the classroom, to resolve conflicts, to develop policy, to set goals and to support community standards.

The philosophy of the department is built upon promoting a quality of life for all individuals and providing opportunities for personal and professional growth and development. The department strives to accomplish this mission by ensuring that our employees reflect an appreciation for diversity and openness to learning.

Should you choose to apply to be a Resident Assistant, the skills you will learn will stay with you for a lifetime. Just as important, the environment you shape and the time you spend with incoming students may well have an impact that will stay with them for a lifetime. If you are interested in applying for a FIG Academic Assistant (FA) position, please complete the FA application available in the First Year Programs Office in Oregon Hall.

Thank you for your interest in working with University Housing. The selection process is a learning experience, and I hope that you find it to be beneficial and educational. If you have any questions about the application or the hiring process, please feel free to contact our selection coordinator at 346-4222.

Sincerely,

Sandy Schoonover
Director of Residence Life
University Housing