Resident Assistant Series - Anthony Anderson

A cornerstone of the Governors State University (GSU) experience is the comfort students feel on campus, from the small class sizes averaging 18 students to the cozy nooks of the university nestled in the midst of the Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park.  At Prairie Place, the university’s residence hall, the vibe is no different in providing a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere tailored around the needs of the residents. That’s why GSU’s Department of University Housing assign a group of students as Resident Assistants (RA) every semester as Prairie Place’s exclusive peer mentors dedicated to supporting their fellow residents in achieving academic and personal success. We interviewed the team, who will introduce themselves throughout the series, for further insight into the motivations and operations of an RA. Here are the words of one of the mentors:

Anthony Anderson, Computer Science

“Before I became an RA, I knew I needed more experience to prepare me for my dream job as a computer programmer, specifically in a management position. I acquired a job in GSU’s IT department to further my computer skills; however, I wanted a position that focused on leadership too. When I saw the ad seeking a new RA for Prairie Place, I knew that would be the perfect opportunity for me to become a better leader.

Since I became an RA, I have met so many new people, while having the pleasure of making a difference in their lives at the same time. Usually it’s the younger students that come to me for advice; they often ask questions regarding how to manage their time better or prioritize their schoolwork. Sometimes students will come to me seeking guidance on important life decisions, which I take great pride in.

Being an RA is an invaluable experience that allows me to positively affect the lives of others, as well as my own. I will take the mentorship skills I am learning as an RA, so I can become a respectable supervisor in the future.”