Julia Johnson, a current Fellow and previous RA, knows first-hand what it takes to serve in one of these roles! Listen as she shares more, in the video above.

An ideal Resident Assistant (RA) at the University of Dayton is someone who is willing to step outside their comfort zone and actively engage with every resident in their community. The most important part of being an RA is building genuine relationships—this means initiating direct, meaningful conversations and truly getting to know each individual. RAs are expected to become "experts" in their residents, ensuring that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, which fosters a strong sense of belonging.

While other responsibilities such as facilitating programs, enforcing policies, and supporting campus resources are important, relationship-building is at the heart of the RA role. Ideal RAs prioritize connecting with residents, making sure no one feels left out, and cultivating an inclusive environment where the Marianist spirit of respect, hospitality, and community thrives. If you are committed to making everyone feel welcome and part of the Flyer family, you have the most important quality of an ideal RA.

An ideal Neighborhood Fellow is first and foremost a relationship builder, dedicated to engaging with students on a regular basis and fostering meaningful connections within the Student Neighborhood. The heart of this role lies in being present: actively reaching out, listening with empathy, and creating spaces where students feel known, valued, and supported.

Neighborhood Fellows are leaders who champion creating a sense of belonging, facilitate dialogue, and help build a strong sense of community rooted in our Marianist values of respect, service, and collaboration. They are approachable, adaptable, and willing to learn from diverse perspectives. By modeling integrity and compassion in daily interactions, Fellows help cultivate a positive environment where every student is empowered to grow academically, personally, and socially.

Above all, the ability to consistently engage and build genuine relationships—with individual students and among groups—is what sets an ideal Neighborhood Fellow apart.

Click on the video above to hear more about what it takes  to be a Neighborhood Fellow from staff member Collin Grady who is currently serving in the role.

Click on the video above to hear more about what it means to "KCE" from the perspective of current Fellow (and previous RA), Dominic Delligati.

On UD’s campus, to “KCE” is to embrace the core approach of Housing and Residence Life’s (HRL) relationship engagement model. KCE stands for:

• KNOW yourself and others: Foster self-awareness while actively learning about and appreciating the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of your fellow community members.

• CONNECT with people and resources: Build authentic relationships, reach out to peers, staff, and faculty, and connect residents with the support systems and resources that help them succeed.

• EMPOWER a thriving community: Encourage inclusion, respect, and shared responsibility for community wellbeing, enabling everyone to contribute and flourish.

These KCE goals form the foundation of “The Dayton Experience.” For Resident Assistants (RAs) and Fellows, the ability to KCE with residents is the most important aspect of the job—successful engagement, support, and leadership all begin with this model. If you are committed to KCE, you will help create a vibrant, supportive community where every Flyer can thrive.

Applying to be a Resident Assistant (RA) or Fellow at the University of Dayton is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of your peers while developing skills that will benefit you long after graduation. Through this leadership role, you'll strengthen your communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution abilities—skills that are highly valued in any career field. You'll also gain experience in building inclusive communities, supporting others, and navigating complex situations with empathy and professionalism.

In addition to the invaluable personal and professional growth, RAs and Fellows receive free housing, a meal plan, and a stipend, which can provide important financial support during your time at UD. Most importantly, you'll join a team dedicated to living out our Marianist values and helping every student feel connected, supported, and empowered to thrive. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to grow, serve others, and shape the Dayton community, becoming an RA or Fellow is an excellent choice.

Olivia Kardadi has been both an RA and a Fellow and shares just a few of the reasons why someone should apply for one of these positions, in the video above.

Hear more about what current Fellow, Destiny Glenn, has gained by being a Fellow in the video above

Serving as a Resident Assistant (RA) or Neighborhood Fellow at the University of Dayton offers a transformative opportunity to develop essential life and leadership skills. You will learn how to build authentic relationships, communicate effectively across diverse groups, and create inclusive communities rooted in respect and service.

Through regular engagement with fellow students, you will gain experience in conflict resolution, event planning, and crisis management—preparing you for leadership in any professional or personal setting. You will also deepen your understanding of UD’s Catholic and Marianist values by fostering environments of hospitality, collaboration, and integrity.

RAs and Fellows grow as compassionate leaders, equipped to make a meaningful impact not only in the residence halls and Student Neighborhood, but far beyond campus. You will cultivate lifelong friendships, strengthen your problem-solving abilities, and emerge with a richer sense of purpose and responsibility.