Why is it August already?!? Like, who authorized this? It was just May two seconds ago but now it’s August and in my case our students are headed back to campus. Now, your new academic year may not start until September but either way…
Happy New (Academic) Year to us all!
It seems only fitting that we talk about some resolutions! That’s what people do (well some people) when a new year starts so let’s go for it!
Take out your pen and paper (if you’re old school like me!) or your electronic device and jot down a few things you want to do this upcoming academic year. Here are a few suggestions if you don’t have them. I recognize that the readers of this blog make up all facets of Res Life Professionals and some of our adjacent friends (hey there!) so this list and the prompts cover a large swath, whether entry level pro or a little more seasoned, like myself.
For Academic Year 24-45, I will focus on Strategic Planning…
- This year, I will make sure my work is in alignment with the strategic plan for our university, our division and our office.
- This year, I will better understand the university’s strategic plan.
- This year, I will develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan that aligns with the institution’s goals and enhances the residence life and housing program.
For Academic Year 24-25, I will focus on Leadership Development…
- This year, I will lean into being or finding a mentor.
- This year, I will foster my professional growth and leadership skills.
- This year, I will delegate more to provide my staff the opportunity to lead, gain experience and confidence.
- This year, I will step up and lead more and by example.
- This year, I will do a better job of recognizing and celebrating myself and my team.
For Academic Year 24-25, I will focus on Making Data-Driven Decisions…
- This year, I will craft the right questions to get the right answers because a good question is better than a good answer any day.
- This year, I will make sure the staff understands and utilizes the data we collect.
- This year, I will prioritize making data-driven decisions to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of our residence life and housing programs.
For Academic Year 24-25, I will focus on Enhancing Collaboration…
- This year, I will strengthen partnerships with other campus units.
- This year, I will make sure I am being the best campus partner that I can be and represent my office/unit the best way possible.
For Academic Year 24-25, I will focus on Crisis Management…
- This year, I will review and revise (as needed) our crisis protocol and response strategies.
- This year, I will ensure my staff feel confident and comfortable addressing emergency/difficult situations.
For Academic Year 24-25, I will focus on Financial Stewardship…
- This year, I will better understand our office budget for my own personal and professional growth.
- This year, I will optimize budget management and seek additional funding opportunities to enhance the initiatives in our office.
- This year, I will challenge my staff to either spend all of their programming budget or stay within their budget allocation.
What will you do this year? What areas of your personal or professional life will you focus on?
As stated, these are just a few suggestions. Start the year out right by thinking of what you want to accomplish this academic year. Write it down, post it, share it, do whatever you need to do to hold yourself accountable to your actions. The decisions you make today affect your tomorrow. Let’s bring in the new academic year on a high note!
Happy Move In! Happy Opening Day! Ready or not, here they come!
See you next month!
