Rethinking Criteria for Training and Selection: An Inquiry Into the Emotional Intelligence of Resident Assistants

The Resident Assistant (RA) position continues to expand and increase in complexity. The demands and responsibilities of the position can create a stressful environment for the RA. Choosing the right candidate for the RA position assists the residence life program, the institution, and above all the students. The results of this research present a relatively new theoretical construct, emotional intelligence, that may be helpful in selection and training of RAs. This research could be considered in the selection processes of other peer advisors and leaders on college campuses as well.