As a Resident Assistant (RA) at the University of the Pacific (UOP), I firsthand understand the immense responsibility and dedication our role demands. We are not just there to ensure the smooth functioning of the dormitories; we are mentors, community builders, conflict mediators, and the primary line of support for our residents. We work tirelessly to provide a safe and supportive environment where students can thrive, often going above and beyond the call of duty.

Currently, despite the significant responsibilities RAs shoulder, we are not compensated financially for our work at UOP. This lack of remuneration does not equate with the crucial role we play and undermines the value of our contribution to the university community. It's not just about fairness; it's about recognizing the hard work and commitment that goes into being an RA.

Evidence suggests that compensating RAs can improve their motivation, job satisfaction, and ultimately, their efficiency in their roles. According to the National Institute for Standards and Technology, compensation improves job performance and retention. Many universities across the country acknowledge this and have taken steps to pay their RAs fairly. Institutions like Stanford University, University of Southern California, and University of Washington have implemented compensation structures that reflect the RAs' duties and responsibilities. UOP should follow their lead to remain competitive and ensure our students' on-campus living experience is positive and enriching.

Moreover, not paying RAs places an additional financial burden on students who may already be struggling to afford college. This can disproportionately affect students from lower-income backgrounds, limiting their ability to take on these leadership roles.

Therefore, we are calling on the administration at UOP to implement a fair compensation structure for Resident Assistants. Such a step would not only be an acknowledgment of our hard work but also a vital investment in the quality of student life. Sign this petition if you believe that RAs deserve to be paid for their essential contributions to our university community.

Our asks are simple:
1. Stipend: A stipend broken up into bi-weekly payments totaling to $12,000 per academic year to compensate for the reduction in our financial aid and removal of 10 working hours out of the limited 20 hours we are allowed to work per week as students.  This figure is low in comparison to what RAs get at other universities. Disbursement of the stipend must lead to no reduction in our financial aid and must also be applied to the following Fall semester, should this be passed. 
2. Resident Assistant Advisory Board: This board will be made up of resident assistants from all committees and will be structured similarly to ASUOP's Senate. The board will have a member who sits in on higher-up meetings and decisions, allowing RAs to have a voice in the decisions impacting our livelihood.