What a semester! There were so many highs and lows throughout the semester that I have yet to share, so here we go.

Pitt-Titusville:
I had an absolutely rewarding first year as a graduate resident director. We hired and fired more RA’s than I ever imagined, each case so very different, but such a learning experience. The biggest lesson learned was that my response to students mistakes matters so much. By that I mean, after a situation happened the students thought I was going to treat them differently. If anyone knows about making mistakes it’s me. I would never treat anyone any different because of a bad choice they made. I am in this profession because I want to help students make great choices, but when they do not, I want to challenge and support them to make a better choice the next time.
If we didn’t make mistakes, we would be perfect and no one is—it’s that simple. Mistakes are just a chance for us to learn and we are “learn” all of our lives.

Speaking of RA’s, one of mine this year had Aspergers. He was more than difficult to work with, but in our last one-one-one, I thanked him. He challenged every skill that comes naturally to me, so I had to adapt my leadership style. I tried to make different plans and accommodations for him, but he rebuked every single one. My experience with him only helped me to grow as a leader. A leader is constantly being challenged and although he was my biggest challenge, it only made me better. When you are going through the challenge you do not realize how it is going to benefit you until it is over.

Slippery Rock:
The semester was smooth. There is really no other way for me to put it. It went so quick! Assignments seem to be right on top of each other, so mid-way through I thought I was going to lose it. Spring break came at just the right time to keep my sanity. Another key to making it through was traveling to see my friends in Johnstown and Pittsburgh. I was not always able to make it home, which made seeing my friends who are family that much more important. I really have made some of the best friends and without each of them, my life would be in disarray. I hope they all know how much I love and appreciate them because I am not the best at expressing my emotions. hahaa
My grades are starting to roll in and they are looking pretty decent. I do not really believe in grades, but I do like to know that I did well. For me, the A on the report is not what matters; it is applying what I learned in a class with a student and it works, that is the better A.

Perspective:
I find myself annoyed with a lot especially on the social media websites. I cannot fathom why people feel the need to share what my mum would call “family business.” I do not get why people get on Facebook to tell someone off via their status. Why would anyone feel the need to have a photo shoot in their bathroom at 3 o’clock in the afternoon, just to upload to Instagram? Why does everyone want to be a rapper?
On the other hand, how can I be upset when I live in a culture that celebrates, supports and even thrives off all of those questions I just asked. I know it isn’t just my Facebook “friends” and followers, who do not mind “sharing” too much information. One of my “friends” yesterday got on Facebook to tell her ex-boo and his girl to “burn in hell”. Honestly, who looks worse in that situation? You cannot possibly think it’s you boo boo. The definition of success and integrity is something that I would like to reacquaint some folks with.