Monday, July 11, 2011

Thompson - Week 5 - The Reason

College, for the most part, is an experience in a young adult's life that challenges their beliefs, tests their knowledge, and encourages growth.  As a student affairs professional we do more than plan concerts, enforce visitation policy, and host fraternity/sorority recruitment.  We affect lives.  The students we serve are the reason we are in this profession.

My first week at Saint Leo has been amazing.  I have assisted with orientation, attended meetings, and welcomed a new staff member to campus. All of theses events were overshadowed by a statement a student made to me.  "John, I'm glad you're here.  You make people happy, and I like that"  The student's words should resonate in all of us. 

Working hard and completing tasks is essential to running a successful student affairs division, but so is serving the students.  Saint Leo serves the whole student, and I have witnessed that first hand.  An example of this would be Ken and Ana's idea of community. 
 

A community builds trust, establishes relationships, and instills accountability   They say that without community our mission of serving the Saint Leo student body is moot.  I have witnessed Saint Leo's community, and it is shaping the students into complete individuals.  These individuals will then be prepared for life after college, and that is the reason why we are in student affairs.

 

3 comments:

  1. Sounds like you are having a blast and really gaining an even better understanding of that Student Affairs foundation that we have learned is so important. The statement made by the student was great and I'm sure you will continue to reach even more students. Can't wait to hear about Saint Leo's orientation and how it differs from MSU. Miss you!

    -Megan

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  2. John,

    Wow! I know it was rough getting there, but it sounds like it was worth it. I am glad you decided to leave the "known" to try the "unknown" and try something else on for size. Clearly, I hope you are recognizing the difference in university culture and your "fit" in that culture. I can tell you are already in as you've "changed" your colors and have joined in becoming one of the "team." Although we know you are true maroon at heart, we recognize the importance of really giving your all to where you are. Keep it up John!

    Dr. H

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  3. Oranges... 'Nuff said :)

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