<p>Specifically at Auburn University? </p>
<p>I've heard they get free housing, but do they get free dining as well? Every dollar counts! </p>
<p>Do it for the kids. </p>
<p>I think you do get free room but other than that I’m not sure. If my son wasn’t in band I’d encourage him to apply, especially if you are in one of the quad dorms - the kids seem to be pretty well behaved…at least in the upper quad.</p>
<p>At my old university, room and board was included. At my current school, only room is covered but the RAs are paid $500 a month. I’m an RA in the apartments so I don’t have to buy the meal plan so all is good.</p>
<p>I happen to have a lot of RAs as students. Yes, you get free room (and possibly board, depending) but there are many many many other responsibilities that may make the choice “not worth it” for you. You’re "on’ even when you’re “off,” and you might be late for class because you need to unlock someone’s door. You might not get to study for the exam because of an emergency on your hall. Some universities even limit your social life - you cannot be seen drinking in a bar even if you are of age, because that sets a bad example. Think very carefully before you take on this commitment.</p>
<p>@stradmom is on the money. When I very quietly suggested it to my own (freshman) son he said “No way. I’d be the worst RA in history. Freshman are ridiculous.” He was mostly joking…but I do know his strengths and weaknesses and there’s no way he could/would deal well with the constant barrage of freshman drama. Homesickness, roommate wars, real and imagined bullying/eating disorders/mental health disorders, drug and alcohol stuff, workload stress, Hi I’m Julie McCoy your cruise director…let me entertain you events. It’s a great opportunity/experience for some…but don’t do it (only) for the money.</p>