For Naima Pyarali, community has been the defining thread of her WashU experience.
Originally from Albuquerque, N. M., she came to the university drawn to its tight-knit culture—something she has since helped strengthen for others through her work as a resident advisor (RA).
“I knew since my first year that I wanted to be an RA,” Pyarali said. “I believe strongly in the ResLife mission…and I wanted to be a mentor for first-year students in a new way.”
As a past WUSA and member of CS40, Pyarali now serves as an RA in Village East, where she has found that leadership and belonging are deeply connected.
“Being an RA has provided me with a greater sense of community,” she said. “Not only have I gotten closer to my fellow RAs, but I’ve also built meaningful relationships with my residents.”
Through her role, Pyarali has learned to lead with empathy and adaptability—skills that extend far beyond the residence hall.
“Being an RA has given me a multitude of skills,” she said. “I’ve grown in how I handle challenging situations. I’ve learned the importance of communication and flexibility in every plan. I have become a better listener and supporter, while also enforcing rules and safety measures.”
Pyarali said that no two days are the same being an RA. Some days are spent planning community events or chatting with residents; other days she has team meetings or RA trainings about leadership development, conflict mediation and community engagement, for example.
Being an RA has given me a multitude of skills. I’ve grown in how I handle challenging situations. I’ve learned the importance of communication and flexibility in every plan. I have become a better listener and supporter, while also enforcing rules and safety measures.
“Every day is different,” she said. “What I enjoy most is fostering community. It’s rewarding to build connections.”
Beyond Residential Life, Pyarali continues to create community through her involvement as president of the Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students and leadership roles in Synapse and the Gephardt Institute Student Advisory Council. She is also a Matched Mentor for the Learning Center.
Across each experience, she’s discovered that belonging isn’t just something you find, it’s something you build.
“As a future physician, being an RA has helped me strengthen my empathy and communication, skills that are essential for patient care,” she said. “My WashU experience is intertwined with ResLife. I love WashU and feel honored to help a shape part of the student experience.”