The primary resource for a U.Va. student residing in single student houses is his or her Resident Advisor (RA). The RA is an upper-class student who has been selected through a competitive process, has undergone training in responding to student concerns and is familiar with University resources.

Resident Staff live in close proximity to their residents. In first-year houses RAs are usually on the same hall or in the same suite. This person is a good first contact for a student if he or she is not sure where to go for help. The RA may know the answer, or may refer the student to other University resources. The RA also sponsors programs or helps residents to organize programs. Programs may be simple social events to help students get to know one another, may provide important information about safety or academic and career planning, or may challenge students to discuss issues with one another or faculty. The range and number of programs depend heavily on the interest and involvement of the residents. It is also a part of the RAs responsibility to guide the community in responding to violations of the University's Standards of Conduct (judiciary offenses) and the housing contract. Because the Resident Staff program operates under a peer confrontation model, the RA will often encourage and expect residents to confront one another and hold each person accountable. They will also address violations and, in some cases, refer situations to the University Judiciary Committee for adjudication and sanctioning.

Finally, RAs have information and training about what to do in case of an emergency. The first and best call in an immediate emergency is 911, but we encourage students also to contact their RA so that the full resources of the University may support the response.

The RAs are part of the larger Residence Life Program, which supports them in developing their residential communities. Although Resident Staff members receive a rent-free room and a meal plan as compensation, their work is primarily a service to the University and its residents.