Yesterday marked a year since I got offered an RA position at my university, and I’ve been reflecting a lot on my experience thus far.
It has been the most positive experience of my life. I’m so incredibly happy I decided to apply for the position. I was really hesitant, because I hate failing and was ridiculously worried that I would not get it. Also, I was scared as hell to get recommendations because I was still relatively new to college when I put in the application and didn’t feel comfortable asking professors yet. I’m so very glad I did it anyway.
My life has changed drastically since I accepted the position. My mom passed, and this job helped me through that, believe it or not. Just talking to residents and my staff to get my mind back in a healthy state has been an absolute blessing. My anxiety has also hit its peak, and this job has helped me deal with that. The RA position can be stressful, but it’s so worth it.
I also feel like I’ve changed a lot. I definitely changed pretty significantly during my first year of college, but these year has changed me even more. I’ve realized how strong I am and how happy I can be. I’ve found my niche and know what I want to do for the rest of my life, and I’m so excited about that (definitely a ‘finally’ moment!). Without this position, I would’ve never realized my passion in student affairs and would’ve never changed my major to this field. I am so very happy about this decision.
I’ve learned that I can deal (successfully) with all types of people. Sure, my patience is consistently tested because of this, but I can do it. I can continue conversations even with the most socially awkward, thanks to this job.
I think my mom is proud of me, wherever she’s looking at me from. I am proud of myself.
This job has been testing, but oh so worth it. I’m continuing with the position in the fall and summer and am so excited to see what else I can learn about the world, student life, and myself.
Oh, and the people I’ve met. God, the people I’ve met. People I would’ve potentially never met otherwise. I am thankful for this the most I think. I’ve made some really close friends and unsuspecting friends. I have an insanely good relationship with my boss. I’ve always got along with my bosses, but this boss is the best. In fact, all three of my bosses are incredible, and I have wonderful relationships with all three. The residents are brilliant. Just by being an RA, I’ve made some really close, even best, friends with residents. People I will continue to talk to for many years to come. My staff is the best thing to come out of this. Literally, I’ve made some lifelong friends out of this staff. Rachel, Greg, Thomas, Garrett (and all the others, too), thank you. I am so blessed to have you in my life.
And Noah. My wonderful Noah. I would’ve never met you if we hadn’t been on the same staff last semester. My very best friend (even crazier to think it’s been such a short amount of time). My confidant. My incredible boyfriend. Thanks to this job, I have you. That makes all the hard times on this job way worth it.
This job has been a blessing. I’m so excited for the semesters to come.
