SEAHO Report - Winter 2018 - 50

SEAHO Features
other's universities to begin their graduate school search. The whole experience was simply life-changing and I
am grateful I had the opportunity to attend STARS College.
As if the STARS experience wasn't enough, I also had the privilege of staying for the ACUHO-I ACE. I
attended a number of information sessions that I thoroughly enjoyed. Specifically, hearing Simon Bailey and
spoken-word poet Sarah Kay were memorable. In "Dumb Things Well-Intended People Say: Building Diversity
Competency," I learned how to place myself in the shoes of others to better understand their intentions and
perspectives depending on each individual's personal experiences.
"Frienemies - Our Love-Hate Relationship with Social Justice Allies," taught me to remain positive during
difficult times and to actively listen and engage with others to understand those who are different from me, as
opposed to "burning bridges" and shutting down conversations when I don't agree with someone else's views
because they may not be the same as my own.
Overall, I learned so much and brought back new ideas for programs, tips to apply when interacting with
coworkers, handling conflicts, and how to have difficult conversations to create a more inclusive and welcoming
community. As an introvert, I'll admit the experience was overwhelming, given the high capacity of people
and jam-packed schedule, but simultaneously it was refreshing to be surrounded by people who share the same
passion for helping others through their roles in student affairs. The networking that I was able to do while
at this conference was also a new experience for me, but I found great value in each of the conversations and
connections, many of which I have maintained since leaving.
Overall, attending both STARS College and the ACE has increased my confidence in my abilities to do well
in this field, reaffirmed my passion for helping others, and increased my desire to continue my career as a
Residence Life professional. I am so excited to now apply the information I learned and remember the advice
I was given by so many wonderful individuals to further my education, develop as a leader, and serve students
this year.
This experience definitely solidified for me the decision to pursue a future career in Student Affairs. The
interactions I had with other housing professionals throughout the week and the sessions I attended during ACE
re-affirmed everything I already loved about housing and what student affairs careers allow one to do for others
in regards to the influence on students' lives. The passion that we shared for the work we do was so refreshing.
When I realized at the end of the trip that I was tired from so many long days, but not from the work I had been
doing or the interactions I was having, I knew this is what I really want to do - I had found my intersection
between passion and career.

SEAHO Report Winter 2018

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of SEAHO Report - Winter 2018