A Residence Fellow is looked upon as a role model, resource person, helper, community developer and leader for the students on their floor. Under the direction of their Residence Manager, Residence Fellow’s have a commitment to creating a community that is conducive to learning, academic success, personal growth and development. The Residence Fellow achieves this community in part through interaction with students on an informal and formal basis in groups and by creating one-on-one connections. These connections and interactions with each individual community member is the primary principle of developing a community based on respect for personal safety, the well-being of one’s self, the community and Residence Standards.
The position of Residence Fellow can be challenging because they work with students and administrators, learn to articulate rights and responsibilities for both the individual and the University, and balance their own academic and personal responsibilities.
Residence Fellow Duties
- Establish a presence in their community in order to develop a positive rapport and familiarity with all floor residents.
- Be the first contact and resource for students
- Assist and refer students in academic, social, personal and student conduct matters.
- Complete all assigned administrative work such as email, weekly logs, student journals, Roommate Agreements, daily communications
- Document violations of Residence Standards
- Inform students of the regulations, policies and procedures of Residence as outlined in the Residence Agreement, Residence Standards and Residence Handbook.
- Actively support, promote and create Residence Life initiatives
- Coach residents and team members through interpersonal conflicts and alert Residence Managers regarding special needs or concerns of individual residents or challenging areas in the community.
- Create a positive and inclusive community in order to foster respectful relationships among all in the residence community.
- Ensure community safety and security within reasonable limits and respond to emergencies as required.
Why become a Residence Fellow?
Certifications & Training
- SAFE talk
- Diversity training
- LGBTQ+ awareness & education
- Upstander – bystander support
- Network of campus partners
- Student Development Theory
Transferable Skills
- Teamwork
- Leadership development
- Effective communication
- Crisis intervention
- Critical thinking & problem solving
- Conflict resolution & mediation
Remuneration
- Residence accommodation and meal plan are provided for one academic year. The meal plan is All Access.
- Residence Fellows are compensated for their Residence Fees and meal plan.
- A stipend of $250 is given to each Residence Fellow for the successful completion of August Training.
- Rideau River Residence Association/Graduate Students Association fees are paid by the Residence Fellow.
What we look for in an Residence Fellow
We hire for attitude, we train for skill.
Candidates who are selected for the Residence Fellow position often have experience in and a passion for providing service to others. These students can clearly articulate both the challenges and tremendous benefits and opportunities that accompany living in residence. The individual suitable for the Residence Fellow position will be self-motivated, take initiative and be capable of functioning both independently and within a group. This individual must possess excellent interpersonal and leadership skills, and be willing to commit their efforts to enhance the Residence Life experience by fostering a culture of community and personal engagement. This position should be viewed as a lifestyle commitment.