BEFORE DAY ONE BY SARAH STRACK

One of the hats I wear is my identity as a resident assistant. I have been an RA for two years in the sorority LLC.  When I am wearing my RA hat is one of the times my creative person is the strongest. 

I am always having to be creative and innovative from getting residents to sign-up for 1-on-1s, handling any situation that arises, keeping residents engaged, planning monthly programs, and all in between. 

One of my favorite parts of being an RA is the community building aspect of it. Building community is one of the most important things an RA can do. 

For me, building community begins before residents arrive. 

It starts with late nights writing on whiteboards and bathroom mirrors, painting signs, finishing door tags, hanging up hallway decorations, filling bags with candy, and making sure every minute detail is perfect to welcome residents and their families the next day.

Building community begins with the creative press and making sure each 12x12 room in a hallway filled with dozens feels like home. 

A home where residents are able to grow & glow.