Whoa is me...

I was reading through my last few posts (make that the last 3 and ONLY posts) and realized that I complain A LOT! Frustrations aside, my complaints are cushioned in love - who was the one who said...we only hurt the ones we love. So, with that framework as a guide...I must love my profession because my critiques of it are only getting stronger.

Have you ever noticed that students think everyone gets the summer off? Today marked the second day of classes on our campus and I cannot count the number of times a student asked..."So what did you do this summer?"

My answer: "Well...I spent these last 4 months lounging in the pool out back of my office and drinking snappy cocktails under my desk. So, between filling up the pool and mixing drinks, that pretty much accounts for my entire summer". What about you?

Amidst the mayhem...

August is almost finished and yet it still feels like it will be take forever to end. This time of year belongs to the students. In efforts to prepare, plan, and organize for a new cohort of first year s, student affairs staff are working at a breakneck pace - no time for thoughtful planning...we are fully immersed in the season of "DO". The season of slogging boxes, running icebreakers, standing patiently at information fairs, workshopping your face off...you know the drill.

But what are the results of such a pace of "doing"? The "season" hits and university staff no longer have mental space to think critically about processes, student development, or intentional programming.

I am feeling the frantic nature of August wind and wind and wind...how tight can I wind...I trust that I know my limit...right..I know when I am about the snap...I think...? At least I thought I could until this past year. The culture of the profession has warped my idea of what a normal working pace really is. Is student affairs effectively creating a culture of "mission impossible"? Are we attempting to keep up with the pace of other professions by taking on more at the expense of our staff and students?

I keep wondering whether I have chosen wisely - is this really the pace that I want in life? Can I imagine keeping these hours and this schedule beyond the year? I am disappointed that a profession that places so much emphasis on balance sets expectations beyond reach. Or..perhaps I am just not capable of the pace? Is it possible that certain people thrive in hectic lifestyles while others feel rushed off their feet?

Growing weary...

...of students who have such a strong sense of entitlement. What happened to feeling thankful and grateful for the opportunities afforded with higher education. I feel the shift in how I will work with students more urgently now. With the typical "millenial" approach to solve and effect change, this year's incoming class has reminded me of where they need support and development.

No...I will not call the lost and found for you...you need to do that yourself.
No...I will not buy sheets for your residence bed...you need to do that yourself.
No...I will not accept your housing offer on your behalf.
No...I will not...

BUT...yes I will help you understand your role in a global community and provide many thoughtful challenges to help mediate this sense of entitlement. You accept the rules...my job is to help you question and break them.