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How to Conference Well: Maximizing Your National Conference Experience [Webinar Recording]

Abstract Attending a national conference can be a transformative experience for graduate students and new professionals, if approached with intention and strategy. This session provides a supportive framework to help emerging professionals make the most of their conference opportunities. Participants will learn practical tips for planning and organizing their schedules, leveraging volunteer roles, and engaging... Continue Reading →

Practical Tips for Being Trauma-Informed as a Residence Hall Director

The role of a Residence Hall Director encompasses various helping professions, requiring emotional support, goal-setting, and difficult conversations. Implementing a trauma-informed approach emphasizes safety, communication, and relationship-building. Practical strategies for fostering this environment include prioritizing psychological safety, educating staff, and maintaining predictable communications, ultimately fostering growth and dignity among students.

RA*Chat Ep 169: When Itโ€™s More Than a Roommate Issue: Navigating Conflict, Care, and Crisis

In this episode of Roompact's RA*Chat, we sit down with Jose Rivera to break down how to distinguish typical roommate conflict from situations that require higher-level intervention. The conversation covers documentation best practices, referrals, collaboration with professional staff, and how to balance empathy with policy enforcement. Especially in complex, real-world situations, RAs like you face on the job.

โ€œThe Traitorsโ€ RA-Edition

"The Traitors" TV show highlights how confidence, rather than dishonesty, can lead players to failure, reflecting similar dynamics in Resident Advisor teams. Five archetypes illustrate how strengths can hide blind spots. The piece emphasizes the importance of clear communication and documentation to prevent unresolved issues, urging self-reflection and growth within teams.

ResEdChat Ep 168: Communication, Conflict, and Compromise: Navigating Conflict in the Halls

In this episode of ResEdChat, join our host Noah Montague and guest Keresa Murray, Resident Director at Ohio University as they talk about navigating conflict in the Residence Halls. Far too often, students and people at large avoidย conflictย whether it be out of fear, polarization, or even safety. That said, conflict and navigating disagreement are a crucial part of life and thus a crucial part of the residential experience that is important for us to talk about and reflect on as residence life professionals. In this episode, Keresa and Noah explore the talk about conflict management, share impactful stories, and provide practical advice to Residence Life Staff.

Should I really be returning as an RA next school year?

If you're an RA pondering whether to return next year, think about your schedule, commitment, and desire for the role. Itโ€™s important to know that being an RA isnโ€™t just for benefits like free housing. Reflect on your experience and make sure it's the right fit for you and your residents!

ResLife Generational Change: Parental Control

The involvement of parents in residence life is increasingly vital due to the structured upbringing of current students. As many students rely on parents for guidance, engaging them proactively enhances support networks and promotes student autonomy. Strategies include providing resources, setting expectations, and facilitating parent-student communication, fostering a collaborative environment.

ResLife Generational Change: Adapting Residence Life for a New Generation of Graduate Students

by Vicente Romรกn The rising generation of college students is reshaping residence life practice in ways that require both reflection and adaptation. For professionals working with graduate and family housing populations, these shifts are especially pronounced. Students today are not only navigating academic responsibilities but also balancing professional careers, family obligations, and complex social and... Continue Reading →

ResLife Generational Change: Meeting the Rising Generation through Authentic, Low Energy, and Unpolished Engagement

by Mike Schilling, Ph.D. As a millennial student affairs practitionerโ€”and more so as the millennial parent of a toddlerโ€”generational changes are often on my mind. I see how students engage with our residential environments, I see how my kiddo already understands how to โ€œswipeโ€ on a phone, and I know we need to continue to... Continue Reading →

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