Job Dynamics...

I knew when I got the job to be an RA that I was going to love every minute of it and that's true.  I love being an RA.  There were a few dynamics that I didn't consider that have made the job interesting.  

1. Being an RA, you are always surrounded by people.  Constantly.  I leave for class even earlier than I used to just because I now know so many people who always want to stop and chat.  That being said, being an RA is a really lonely job.  You are the authority on the floor, so while everyone likes you, no one necessarily wants to be too close a friend.  I'm okay with that though.
2. Going along those lines, RAs like to be with other RAs, probably because of the aforementioned reason.  Every meal the RAs go together.  It's a small network of instant best friends because they are the only ones who truly understand what this job is like.
3. RAs are extreme.  When they need to be serious, as a group they are very serious and get the job done.  If something bad happens, they deal with it as an efficient team as though they've done this all their lives together, even if it's the first time.  On the other hand, RAs are crazier than anyone else I know. They go all out in the wildness department and are some of the most fun people to be with.  The cool thing?  RAs can switch from crazy to serious and back in the blink of an eye.  Insane to watch.
4. I knew I would come to care for my residents, but I never suspected just how much.  They mean the world to me!  I don't know what I would do if something happened to one of them.
5. RAs keep their residents safe, happy and having fun.  Hall Directors do the same for the RAs.  I have the coolest HD ever.  I've observed all the other HDs, but few care like Brandon.  He takes care of his RAs like I take care of my residents. I'm very glad he's my HD!