TiShawn Polk: Housing and Residence Life – Week 2

Activities:

-Schedule in-house presenters for RD and RA training

-Attend Weekly RD training committee meetings

-Meet with supervisor

 

Experience:

During the second week of my practicum, I found myself actually getting into the housing action. I attended a committee meeting to set up training for incoming RDs and RAs. Most of those in the meeting were from our cohort and those who were not from our cohort were equally as inviting. After introductions, the meeting began. So far what I enjoy most about Housing and Residence Life workers is that they are all about business and getting things done, but at they same time they are a blast to be around. They do not make you uncomfortable or act too reserved. Even in meetings, we have large tasks to get done, but it’s like planning something with your family. I really enjoy this aspect of my practicum.

The other aspect I enjoy about my practicum is how inclusive they are. I thought that I really would not begin my practicum experience until July because that is when the majority of events begin to take place. However, I was included in the planning process. Where I thought I would just sit and watch, they have me actively participating in a very important aspect to housing. This showed me that they have at least acknowledged the fact that I am doing my practicum there, and they are actively trying to help me. I do not take this lightly because I could be left to pursue opportunities without actually getting them. The task I was given was to help Bryan in contacting different offices on campus to speak for RD and RA training. This process in itself was very rewarding.

 As I began contacting different people, I noticed many held positions in the offices I wanted to learn more about. Now that they have seen my name, it will be less awkward when I speak to them face to face! I find myself really vested in the success of what goes in my practicum. As of now, I feel like Housing and Residence Life is my home, and I can see myself working here in the future.

 Lastly, I am still working with my supervisor to shadow someone in Budget and Finance and Facilities Management. I feel once July begins, I will have very little time to explore these areas. These next few weeks will be all about planning. From the readings I thought it was interesting that many of the student affairs professionals had something else in mind when it came to their careers. It seemed it was by coincidence that some started their careers in student affairs. In the same way, I feel as though I am blessed to stumble upon many of these opportunities. It seems my coincidences are better than my plans.