Oh, hey! Welcome to the community.
In my role, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to connect with many of our clients. The clients within the eRezLife community are top-notch. It’s the highlight of my work to be able to connect and learn from you. I have the unique opportunity to hear from clients in a non-transactional way. It’s not uncommon to have a conversation about the weather or plans for the weekend. It’s also not uncommon to hear about your work. I have the unique opportunity to be a sounding board that understands but you never have to face. I don’t know if it’s because of my experience or just that you’re looking for someone to listen, but I feel fortunate that many of you use our phone calls as an opportunity to open up about your struggles and challenges.
The Reality of Residence Life Roles
From many of you, I hear that you feel alone and that all of the work falls on your shoulders. You are dealing with real lives, and your decisions have real implications for the students that you work with. It’s a lot of pressure, and it’s difficult when you feel alone. You don’t have the time, space, and energy to think about the up-and-coming trends. You’re reactive and craving some support. You’re all looking for the same thing – something that will make your work easier.
Some of you are incredibly lucky. You have an amazing group of colleagues who support you through your challenges and act as a sounding board when you need someone to listen to. They take you out to celebrate your accomplishments and pick you up when things are not going your way. Some of you are lucky enough to live what I call the Residence Life dream and are surrounded by a team of absolute gems.
I Hear You
I’ve had a supportive, amazing, and talented team, but I’ve also felt the isolation. I’ve been part of an outstanding team yet still felt alone in the struggles of my specific role. Colleagues that did the same work were not available or were hard to find, and I was continually thinking of new and innovative ways to complete the intended goals and outcomes.
Let’s Talk to Each Other
You do not need to feel alone in the work that you’re doing – someone else in Student Affairs is doing something similar and may be able to help. It’s about finding the connections. Collectively, we can do something to help offsite some of those feelings of isolation. Let’s talk to each other. Let’s help those feelings of isolation and overwhelmedness. Let’s share the success of strong teams with those that need support. Let’s connect and not just in the Residence Life Professionals Group on Facebook. Let’s pick up the phone, connect over Zoom, or send a personalized email. If you’re feeling alone, looking for support, wanting access to resources, or even looking for ideas, please reach out. We’d love to help you connect and strengthen our community.
In my experience, the hardest part is finding that initial connection. Where do you even start? If you’re stuck and looking for a connection, start with us! Reach out to Cate, and she’ll listen and work with you to find those connections that will make a difference.
Welcome to the community. We’re glad you’re here.
