It is natural that we experience many beginnings in our lifetimes – these beginnings, both exciting and sometimes a little scary, can mean many things for us here in the world of Student Affairs. For us, beginnings can range from a new project or role, all the way to a new institution and home. This month, we’re asking #SAGrads and #SAFirstYears to share a piece of their current journey with us. We asked “If you had the opportunity to talk to SA colleagues – regardless of where they are in their journey – about what you’re experiencing now, what would you say?” Join us this month as we hear from a diverse community of emerging and new #SAPros – a time to celebrate new beginnings, and continue to support one another as we follow the path of our own journeys.
As a third year graduate student and graduate resident director – one would think that this would be old hat for me, however, every year is a new beginning! I am taking on additional roles both academically and professionally, and am on the cusp of diving into a job search for my first professional role in Student Affairs. As I count down the days until Fall training, I find myself excited to see my staff and colleagues return to campus, welcome another generation of freshmen to this beautiful campus, get back into the classroom, and begin my internship. But- I am also incredibly anxious about all of the things that the last year of graduate school entails. Graduating means it is time to grow up, and well, that’s a little scary! Let’s not even start talking about packing up and moving on from what has very much become “home.”
In order to attempt to turn that anxiety down a notch or two, I’ve spent a great deal of time this summer working on my resume, LinkedIn and other social media accounts, and attempting to organize my calendar as far in advance as I possibly can. I’ve started a spreadsheet of institutions in states and regions that I would like to work in and have inspected the Live-In Report with a fine-tooth comb. Ultimately, though, I don’t know if I’ll ever be completely prepared. I take a deep breath and hope that my experience – the hard work and effort that I’ve put forth – will shine through and keep me cool as I transition to the next point in my journey.
This is where I am right now, and I’m trying to get comfortable – I’ve got a whole year ahead of me and I can only hope that this leg of the journey will be just as exciting as the 29 before it.
Where are you on your journey? Let’s connect! Follow me @amfduck on Twitter.
I hope you are as excited as we are to help share each of the stories of the future of our profession this month!
