Residential Life begins selection for Spring 2025 community assistants
The Community Assistant Program on the Pennwest Edinboro campus had begun its hiring process for the Spring 2025 semester, offering students to apply to become a community assistant.
“The CA position can be a rewarding experience for students and can have transferable skills that can be used in their career path and everyday lives,” said Corey Negley, associate director of Residence Life and Housing at Pennwest .
Students who have finished their first year of college can apply for a community assistant position on Handshake starting October 9th.
“I would always recommend students apply,” said community assistant Jay Parrish. “I think it is a good learning experience and I don’t think it is too bad of a job, so I would always recommend people to apply, if they want to.”
The hiring process is consisted of multiple stages that occurs over a two-month period. The multiple stages include applying, attending one of three info sessions, and an interview.
“The multiple stages of the hiring process for the CA position reflect the unique and significant responsibilities that come with the role,” Negley said. “Unlike many other campus jobs, CAs live where they work and are tasked with navigating a diverse range of situations and serving as essential resources for their peers. By implementing a thorough hiring process, we gain a holistic view of each candidate’s abilities, interpersonal skills, and commitment to fostering a supportive environment.”
The position isn’t guaranteed as the number of open spots is determined by how many vacancies there will be in the coming semester.
“We run a hiring process every fall and spring semester to fill positions that we have vacant,” said Negley. “Usually when hiring for spring, we have a lower number of spots open. When we are hiring for fall, we tend to have more openings.”
The Community Assistant Program offers many benefits for those who work for it, including a waiver that provides free housing on the campus.
“Some areas include leadership development, community building, networking, personal growth, resume builder, financial benefits, and making a difference in their peers' lives,” Negley said. “In addition to the answer for why students should apply for the CA position, renumeration for the position is that you are provided a housing waiver for single room while you are in the position during the academic year.”
The community assistants work with one another to help residents living within the Edinboro campus’ dorms, the Highlands.
“You hold events, talk to residents, have any mediations if there are issues, put in work orders, so it is pretty much just maintaining the general atmosphere,” said Parrish.
Previous and current community assistants have had a positive reaction to working for the program.
“I’d say it is a solid eight out of ten,” said Parrish. “It’s not too bad and not true stressful. So, a good, solid eight out of ten, and I do enjoy my job.”
“To our current CAs, thank you for your hard work and commitment,” said Negley. “Your efforts not only make a difference in the lives of your peers but also contribute to the overall success of our community. For those considering applying for the position, know that becoming a CA is a rewarding opportunity to develop leadership skills, make lasting friendships, and leave a positive impact on others.”