Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which hall or group of halls is the best place for me?
Consult with the Area Coordinators and current CAs about the job and differences between halls. Get out and explore different halls. Don’t assume that “XYZ” hall is the only and best place for you if that is the only place you have ever lived.
Who should I choose as my references?
Pick people with whom you have had contact through volunteering, working or other regular interaction. They will be able to give the best reference. Choose an CA or AC that you know well and can talk highly of you. A faculty or staff member that knows your work ethic and can let Community Living know how great you are (Faculty/staff members also include FYE Mentors, ASC Mentors, and Tutors, etc).
NOTE 1: Before you write someone down as a reference, first ask them if you can use them as a reference. This is simply professional etiquette!
NOTE 2: Reference information on you may also be obtained from advisors, supervisors, ACs, etc. who are not listed on your application, as well as from information posted on Social Media and other public resources.
What if I am not sure my grades will be high enough or if I will have enough credits?
For upper-class students, we will proceed based on your latest term, and any grade notifications following mid terms. For First Year students we will proceed with your midterm notations. A full grade report will be run and all candidates will receive email notification updates.
Is it true that ACs and others may look at my Facebook account?
Yes. Facebook is “in the public domain” and is used across Albion College and many campuses by faculty and staff. For Albion College Residential Life, role modeling responsible behavior and ability to follow and enforce college policy are important hiring criteria. Applicants are encouraged to evaluate their Facebook and other online profiles as they decide how they want to present themselves to others. A student’s profile ideally matches the person he or she is.
Can international students work as CAs?
Yes. International students may work as CAs. However, international students should contact the Center for International Education if they have questions about their visas.
If I have been documented or have gone through the student conduct process can I still be considered for a position?
It depends. Every case is different. Please consult with an AC or the Assistant Dean for Community Living and Student Conduct in order to discuss it further. Regardless, while employed, staff members will be disciplined up to and including discharge if they violate any College policies or procedures.
If I am an CA, may I work elsewhere on campus? May I have another job?
No. The CA stipend is based on a 20 hour work week. Therefore, CAs are not eligible for other campus employment. CAs are allowed to work elsewhere in Albion or surrounding communities during the academic year after obtaining permission from your AC.
What topics are covered at training? What is training like?
Fall Training is a 1-2 week period before the Fall semester begins in which the entire CA staff is trained on a variety of topics during the day, and then individual buildings do their training in the evenings. There is a lot of information covered during this time, but there are also a lot of group activities and team builders so you can get to know your new staff.
CA Training covers topics like Policies, Crisis Management, Community Building, On-Campus Resources, Fire Safety, and more. There is also several days in which CAs are able to practice what they have learned through scenarios and skits.
What does a typical week look like for a CA?
A CA has three set events each week. They are typically on-call at least once a week, they have a 1-on-1 meeting with their supervisor, and there is a staff meeting. Once a month they design a new bulletin board, and they are able to put on community programs as needed. The majority of the time commitment is spending time with the residents and addressing any needs or issues they may have.