Who is Reece?

Reece Painter is a Program Coordinator in Student Programs and Leadership Development at Fairfield University. Reece assists in the facilitation of orientation programs, First Year Experience, International Student services, late night programming, and helps to coordinate student leadership programs and initiatives. An alumnus of Eastern Connecticut State University, Reece graduated in 2011 with a Bachelors of Arts in English and a minor in History. In May of 2014, Reece graduated from Central Connecticut State University with her Masters of Science in Student Development in Higher Education. In November of this year, Reece will present her thesis, “”Betwixt and Between: Understanding First-Generation College Student Cultural Transition”” at the NASPA Region 1 Conference.

What was your path to Student Affairs (feel free to include your plans as an undergraduate, etc.)?

Originally I was planning to become a high-school English teacher, but I fell out of love with teaching due to the politics and recent focus on standardized testing. I was inspired by my mentor, Michelle Delaney, to pursue the world of Student Affairs, as she was the Director of Student Activities/Center when I worked in the Student Center at Eastern Connecticut State University. I realized that I could still teach students if I worked in a college setting, just in a different way than I had originally planned.

How do you stay motivated through draining or difficult experiences in your work?

When I was going through a particularly difficult time professionally, I felt inspired to start a hashtag on Twitter to remind me of why others stay in the profession. I started #iSAbecause and it took off – a lot of people responded with why they do what they do and I was reminded and motivated to push through. Although it was a few years ago, I still occasionally will search the hashtag if I need a reminder.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your job in Student Affairs?

The biggest challenge I have faced so far in my job so far is recognizing that I am not able to help every single student. I would love to change the lives of every student for the better, but it is not realistic to think that way. It took me a few years to stop blaming myself if a student made a mistake or dropped out college – there are multiple factors in the development of a student, and sometimes, we can’t help every single person as much as we might try.

What is the most surprising (but awesome) thing you’ve ever experienced in your job in Student Affairs?

Before entering the profession I had no idea how much influence Student Affairs professionals have over students. I didn’t realize how impactful Student Affairs work really is until I experienced it first-hand, and was able to help students myself. Subconsciously I knew my Student Affairs mentors helped me along the way, but it is such an amazing feeling to be on the other side of things and to feel like I am helping others.

How can new professionals succeed in Student Affairs? (what does success mean?)

I think it is important for new professionals to work hard, but also to challenge themselves to maintain as much of a work/life balance as possible. If you keep yourself healthy, you will set the example for your students. I think success in student affairs is demonstrated by acting as a role model (even when not at work), and being true to one’s self. Also, don’t ask your students to do something that you wouldn’t do yourself.

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