Activities:
-
RD
Training
Reflection
It has been an exciting couple of
weeks in Housing, as the fall semester approaches new staff members are
preparing to start the year. Part of
this preparation is the start of RD training.
Calvin and the rest of the housing staff do an excellent job of
representing the culture of the university to new staff members. The RDs are met with a custom made welcome
sign, group of their new friends and colleagues to help move in to their new
home, and a welcome BBQ to kick off the two week training. To me, it felt like welcoming new family
member and gave the feeling that the new RDs are trusted, appreciated, and
important to the university. The process
also showed the heart of MSU as friendly, welcoming people who believe in an individual’s
potential. I have enjoyed taking part in
the process and getting to know the new staff members.
I am also participating in RD
training and the process has taught me so much about how housing operates. I have learned about everything from
emergency procedures to retention programs.
What has surprised me the most is the amount of responsibility on the
RAs and the importance of the relationship between the RDs and the RAs. The RAs represent the eyes and ears of the
housing system and communication between all parties is vital to housing
operations. When I think about the
amount of responsibility on RAs and RDs it makes me anxious. Choosing and
maintaining these staff members is an area I have become very interested in learning
more about. I hope to have a chance to
ask Calvin about the process in the coming weeks.
Emile,
ReplyDeleteI can relate to your feedback on the welcoming of the newcomers. In my practicum experience, I can tell the Office of Admissions and Scholarships/Student Recruitment does a great job of making sure that everyone is on the same page. I believe this makes the work environment flow a lot smoother because I feel that people need to understand individuals they work with. Welcoming newcomers allows individuals to feel more comfortable and valued throughout their work experiences. What I love most about MSU is that we are family orientated! I am glad you are enjoying your practicum. I can tell you are learning a lot!
Good luck,
Ashley Newsome