The Application Process
How do I apply?
Apply by selecting the “apply now” button on the student leadership web page.
Can I apply on Handshake?
No. While both positions will be advertised on Handshake, you will only submit your application from the link on our website.
When does the application open and close?
For roles starting fall 2026 the application is open until filled. Applications for 2027–28 academic year will open in November.
Can I use AI in writing my application essays?
No. AI (artificial Intelligence) or AI assistants are not permitted to be used to help write or review your essay questions in any way. Any candidate found to have used AI to write, review, or assist in the writing of their essays will be disqualified and be ineligible for the CA and CSA roles.
CA Summer Application Timeline
July 14: Begin application review
July 27: Application updates sent to candidates
July 27–29: Candidates sign up for Zoom interviews
July 31 and August 3–7: Zoom interviews
August 14: Final candidacy updates sent
August 20: Deadline to respond to offer letter
August 21: Alternates receive offers, if needed
The Interview
If I am offered an interview, how do I schedule?
Candidates will be offered an interview via email from RESWinfo@uoregon.edu. All candidates will receive one initial email and one reminder email to schedule their interview. If a candidate does not schedule their interview by the deadline they will be removed from the selection process.
Location: Zoom (audio and camera required)
What is the interview format?
This will not be a traditional interview. Instead, you will be given a prompt outlining a scenario related to the role in a proctored exam-like setting. This means there will be other candidates in the Zoom room with you during the interview. You will then provide a written response that addresses all components of the prompt. A staff member will review the prompt and explain the exercise at the beginning of your session, as well as answer any questions prior to beginning. You’ll have dedicated time to complete your written response before the interview concludes. We will provide you with a link where you can complete the interview, and your camera must remain on and your microphone muted throughout the interview.
Is there a dress code for interviews?
No, there is no dress code. Each candidate should prepare and dress for their interview in whatever way makes them feel comfortable, confident, and prepared.
Remuneration
What is the hourly pay?
This position is not hourly. Community assistants will receive a 65 percent credit toward the cost of a furnished standard double room in University Housing with a standard meal plan and a roommate. The remaining 35 percent will be their responsibility, at a consistent rate, regardless of building placement. Candidates who are offered the role will be told their building placement at the time they are offered the role.
What is the credit amount?
For the 2026–27 academic year, a 65 percent discount on a standard double room and standard meal plan in University Housing, valued at $11,819.
Your portion of the housing and dining costs would be 35 percent, or $6,364 for the academic year—approximately $707 per month over the nine months of the CA appointment.
Room Placement
Community assistants (CAs) may be placed in any residence hall (except Yasui Hall) across campus based on departmental and operational needs. As a result, room types and amenities can vary significantly by location and may include differences such as room size, sink access, private or shared bathrooms, and other building-specific features.
To ensure equitable compensation across all CA positions, regardless of room assignment or amenities, CAs are assigned the same room rate. This practice helps maintain consistency in remuneration, as all CAs perform the same responsibilities and are compensated equally, regardless of where they are assigned.
Housing Registration and Building Placement
Do I get to choose what building I will be placed in?
No. We identify placements based on your skills, team dynamics, and operational need. If a candidate requires a specific room type/location/amenity due to a disability under the ADA, they can request that through workplace ADA.
What if I already applied for housing and have my room selected, and it is different from my CA placement?
By accepting the CA role, you are accepting the housing placement that was in your offer letter. Our team will automatically move you to your housing assignment after you have accepted your offer.
Will I have a roommate?
Yes, community assistants will each have a roommate. CAs selected and hired during the standard selection and hiring timeline (held in the spring) will be able to select another community assistant or friend. Those who do not select a roommate will be assigned one.
CAs going through the summer 2026 application process will not be able to select another CA as a roommate. Requests to have a friend who is not a CA live with them may be possible but cannot be guaranteed.
If I am hired, do I still have to pay the housing application fees and deposit?
No, these fees will be waived or refunded in September once you begin training.
Alternate Pool
What does it mean to be in the alternate pool?
We have more qualified applicants interested in the roles than we have openings. Being offered a spot in the alternate pool means we believe you have the ability to be successful in the role, and if a spot opens in the future, you would be considered to fill that vacancy.
Applicants that accept a spot in the alternate pool select when they would like to be automatically removed from the alternate pool (monthly options or remain on indefinitely).
Why would an alternate wish to be automatically removed from the list? What about indefinitely?
Most candidates select a monthly option if they would like to wait a bit longer for an offer before signing an off-campus lease. Alternates select their month to be removed that aligns with their personal circumstances of when they need to sign up for housing next year.
Candidates who choose to remain on indefinitely are either planning to live on-campus next year or have identified flexible housing arrangements.
Does being in the alternate pool guarantee I will be offered a position?
No, we unfortunately cannot guarantee you will be offered a spot in the future. The number of vacancies that occur over the summer and academic year vary from year to year.
Can I know where my ranking is on the alternate list?
Our alternate list does not use rankings. When a vacancy occurs, the supervisor for that community looks at the team dynamic needs and the skills and experiences of the candidates and selects an alternate that meets those variables.