The Office of Summer & Special Academic Programs is seeking an experienced student to serve as the Head Resident Community Advisor for the UVA Advance summer program. UVA Advance is a residential program for rising high school juniors and seniors. Students live in a residence hall on Grounds during Summer Session III and take two, 3-credit classes. Students also participate in workshops and field trips.

The Head RCA will supervise undergraduate staff, monitor the residence hall, provide guidance and supervision of program participants, and supervise weekend excursions.

Start Date: July 9, 2026

End Date: August 8, 2026

Schedule: Exact hours vary according to on-call and other duties. All dates must be in-person in the assigned residence hall. Weekend and evening work is required when program is in session.  

Compensation:

• $2,388 to be paid in two instalments via Period Activity Pay

Position Allowances:

• Housing (single room in residence hall) and dining plan
• Parking pass and AFC access (if applicable)

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Maintain schedules for on-call RCAs, field trips, and evening activities
• Enforce University and program rules and policies, (including nightly curfew)
• Provide leadership for Resident Community Advisors, serving as first point of contact and primary liaison with Program Director
• Conduct regular meetings with Resident Community Advisors
• Conduct meetings with program participants
• Plan and execute regular evening activities for program participants
• Assist with record maintenance and budget tracking
• Maintain an active presence in the program community and seek opportunity to build relationships with students
• Possess willingness and ability to operate on-call for emergencies
• Reside in Gibbons Hall during entirety of program (July 9-August 8)
  • RCAs may take a class or work another part-time job or internship during daytime hours, provided the total time commitment does not exceed 20 hours per week. Any additional employment must be at or in the immediate vicinity of UVA. RCAs are required to be present in the residence hall during evening and overnight hours and may not work an outside job during those times.
  • RCAs must be available for the following daytime hours:
    • Friday, July 10 and Saturday, July 11 (all day): RCA staff training and student arrival
    • Sunday, July 12 (morning only): Team Building Field Day
    • Two Saturday excursions during the course of the program (exact dates and times to be coordinated with Head RCA)
    • Saturday, August 9 (morning only): Move out and departure

Qualifications:

• UVA student in good standing, with a minimum GPA of 2.25
• Ability to reside on-site in Gibbons Hall for duration of program (July 9-August 8)
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to communicate effectively in both written and oral format
• Strong interpersonal skills and experience working with University staff, peers, and adolescents
• Ability to quickly pivot and adjust to evolving situations
• Demonstrable leadership experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience as a Resident Advisor or Senior Resident at UVA
• Experience with adolescents ages 15-18
• Understanding of teenage mental, social, and emotional development
• Prior experience with UVA Advance strongly preferred

Application Process:

Submit resume, cover letter, and contact information for two professional references.

Direct questions to:

Alana Speth

Assistant Director of Operations, Summer & Special Academic Programs

[email protected]

Candidates will be required to participate in an individual interview with the Summer & Special Academic Programs staff. This position requires a background check and training with the Office of Youth Protection.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.