Application Process
Interested in Becoming a Student Life Paraprofessional?
Are you seeking a leadership role where you can support your peers, foster community, and make a lasting impact on campus? Consider applying to become a Student Life Paraprofessional! Whether you serve as a Resident Assistant (RA) in the residence halls or as an Orientation Leader (OL) helping new students transition to Canisius, these positions offer a chance to grow personally and professionally while making meaningful contributions to campus life. If you’re responsible, team-oriented, and passionate about helping others, we encourage you to apply and join the team that shapes the Griff experience.
Make your mark—right where you live and lead.
Application Deadlines
Fall 2026 Informational Sessions
| Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, October 23, 2026 | 12:00–1:00 PM | Science Hall, Room 1018 |
| Wednesday, October 28, 2026 | 4:00–5:00 PM | Science Hall, Room 1018 |
| Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 12:00–1:00 PM | Winter Student Center, Room 205 |
| Friday, November 13, 2026 | 1:00–2:00 PM | Science Hall, Room 1018 |
| Thursday, November 19, 2026 | 7:00–8:00 PM | Winter Student Center, Room 205 |
| Monday, November 23, 2026 | 3:00–4:00 PM | Winter Student Center, Room 205 |
| Tuesday, December 1, 2026 | 9:00–10:00 AM | Winter Student Center, Room 205 |
Spring 2027 Application & Interview Timeline
| Date | Application & Selection Process |
|---|---|
| Friday, January 22, 2027 | Application Deadline – Applications Close |
| Monday, January 25, 2027 | Candidates notified to schedule first-round interviews |
| Wednesday, January 27 – Friday, February 12, 2027 | First-round interviews conducted |
| Monday, February 15, 2027 | Candidates notified of advancement to second-round interviews or non-selection |
| Late February 2027 (Dates TBD) | Group interviews conducted |
| Spring Break 2027 (or earlier) | Position offers extended and waitlisted candidates notified |
Resident Assistants (RAs)
Position Overview:
Resident Assistants are student leaders who live in residence halls and foster a safe, inclusive, welcoming community for fellow students. As front-line community builders, RAs support the residential experience by promoting student engagement, enforcing community standards, and offering peer support.
Ideal Candidates:
Resident Assistants are caring, reliable, and community-oriented students who want to make a difference in the lives of others. They model integrity, uphold university policies, and work to make the residence halls a place where all students feel supported and seen.
Responsibilities Include:
Building relationships with residents and creating a sense of belonging on their floor or in their building
Planning and facilitating events and educational programs aligned with the residential curriculum
Serving on duty to respond to student concerns, policy violations, and emergencies
Connecting students with campus resources and offering mentorship and guidance
Working collaboratively with Hall Directors and other campus staff to maintain a positive residential environment
Time Commitment:
RAs commit to the entire academic year (Fall and Spring semesters)
Mandatory training occurs in August before the start of the semester and in January before Spring classes resume
RAs are expected to be present during key times such as move-in, move-out, and hall closing periods
Compensation:
RAs receive a housing credit that covers the cost of their on-campus housing assignment
Additional leadership development opportunities and support are offered throughout the year
Orientation Leaders (OLs)
Position Overview:
Orientation Leaders are current Canisius students who serve as peer leaders and role models for incoming first-year and transfer students during New Student Orientation. OLs play a vital role in welcoming new students, helping them transition to college life, and representing the Canisius community with energy, empathy, and pride.
Ideal Candidates:
Orientation Leaders are students who demonstrate leadership, school spirit, and a genuine desire to support others. They are dependable, team-oriented, and excited to share their knowledge and experiences with new members of the Canisius community.
Responsibilities Include:
Leading small groups of incoming students through orientation sessions and campus tours
Facilitating icebreakers, discussions, and community-building activities
Providing accurate information about academic policies, student support services, and campus resources
Supporting family and guest programming during orientation
Serving as a friendly, approachable resource throughout the orientation period and beyond
Time Commitment:
Training begins in late summer (typically mid-June - July) prior to orientation
Orientation Leaders are expected to be fully available during all Orientation programming (August)
Occasional commitments during Spring semester for training, welcome events, and outreach activities
Compensation
Orientation Leaders receive a stipend and on-campus housing during training and Orientation week
Meals are provided during orientation sessions
