RA One-on-One Meetings: Supporting Students’ Daily Life on Campus

At AIU, where about 90% of students live on campus, Resident Assistants (RAs) hold one-on-one meetings to help students lead a safe and fulfilling residential life. These meetings are part of our efforts to support new students and short-term international exchange students as they adjust to life after arriving at AIU.

RA one-on-one meetings are held twice a year—during the spring semester (May–June) and the fall semester (September–October). This year, approximately 400 students are taking part, with eight RAs each meeting about 50 students. Each meeting lasts around 10 minutes and offers a relaxed space to talk about topics such as daily routines, relationships with roommates, and overall well-being. Rather than being a formal session, the one-on-one is designed as a comfortable time where students can freely share their thoughts and concerns.

Before meeting with students, RAs receive training from university counselors on effective listening and communication skills. During the meetings, RAs listen to students’ experiences, offer advice based on their own, and, when necessary, connect students with appropriate university resources or professional staff for further support.

Through these one-on-one conversations, students have the opportunity to discuss their questions or worries about academic and daily life and gain access to helpful information and support. For international students, these sessions also serve as a valuable opportunity to adjust smoothly to life in Japan. The connections built through these meetings often continue afterward, providing ongoing support throughout students’ time on campus.

RA one-on-one meetings play a vital role in ensuring that every student can live comfortably and with peace of mind in AIU housing.

Below is a comment from an RA who is currently conducting these one-on-one meetings.

Himawari Saito (Enrolled in 2021)

I try to create an atmosphere where residents feel comfortable talking, recalling how anxious I felt when I was a new student or studying abroad. By asking questions and expanding the conversation, I make sure to follow up carefully afterward if they have any concerns, helping them have a more comfortable dorm life. Through these one-on-ones, I strive to make residents feel that Resident Assistants are approachable and trustworthy sources of support.