Residence Life offers a range of paid and volunteer opportunities designed to help students build transferable skills, gain leadership experience, and strengthen their resumes while living on campus. From student leadership roles to training and recognition programs, these opportunities allow you to develop skills in communication, teamwork, event planning, advocacy, and community building.
Below you'll find opportunities specifically within Residence Life. We also encourage students to explore job postings, leadership development, and experiential learning opportunities across Saint Mary’s through the .
Applications open: February - March
Residence Assistants (RAs) are student leaders who play a key role in fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive living environment in residence. RAs support their peers, help build community, respond to concerns, and assist with programming and engagement initiatives within their assigned buildings.
These roles offer meaningful leadership experience, extensive training, and ongoing professional development, making it an excellent opportunity for students interested in student affairs, leadership, or community engagement.
Residence Life Student Groups and Committees offer hands-on leadership experience through student-led programming, advocacy, and community engagement. These roles allow students to collaborate with peers, plan events, and contribute to a vibrant residence experience while developing practical, resume-ready skills.
Each Residence Life Student Group includes three leadership roles:
Chair – Provides overall leadership and direction for the group Operations Coordinator – Oversees logistics, administration, and budgeting Creative Coordinator – Manages promotions, communications, and outreach
Participation in these roles builds experience in leadership, teamwork, communication, and project management.
Nomination Submission Dates: March - April
Each year, Residence Life recognizes students who actively contribute to an inclusive, engaged, and connected residence community through the Residence Leadership & Engagement Awards (RLEAs).
Students who participate in residence programming and leadership opportunities are eligible for recognition by completing the ‘Basic 6’ ways to get involved in residence. The more involved you are, and the more leadership roles you take on, the stronger your eligibility for awards.
Attend an RLEA information session offered bi-weekly in the fall and winter terms to learn more about the ‘Basic 6’, the application process, and tips for submitting a strong application.
Residence Life regularly partners with campus units to offer free training sessions and educational workshops for students living in residence. These sessions focus on skill development, literacy, and personal growth, and may include topics related to wellness, inclusion, leadership, and community safety.
Many of these opportunities are eligible for Co-Curricular Recognition (CCR) documented through SMU’s verified Experience Record, allowing students to formally document their involvement and learning.