1624Phil

My philosophy of student affairs focuses on fostering learning outside the classroom through purposeful communication, relationships, and role modeling. When communication and relationships are done with a purpose then I can expect the following outcomes: students that have a better understanding of themselves due to growth emotionally, academically, personally, spiritually, and socially. These relationships and communications are fostered through every interaction; therefore, I must take these opportunities to help the students bridge the gap between what they are learning in the classroom and what is happening in the world around them. Higher education provides students with the opportunity to take responsibility for their lives, actions, academics, social lives, and much more. The ease of transition is facilitated through student affairs professionals working together to help students process choices they have made. Building a relationship and/or rapport with students is the key to successfully helping a student get the most out of the college experience in and outside of the classroom. I believe that relationships and education link to empowerment. I provide education and guidance through any interaction and this lets students see the power of their decisions and the resulting outcomes. This is a philosophy that I carry and utilize when working with all different types of students. The way I communicate with student staff, residents, and students going through the judicial system various but with the same intentions. I encourage students to see other points of view and to think beyond their initial desires and responses to various situations. I help students go beyond what is comfortable, thus supporting them as they go through something new. Role modeling is one of the strongest and lasting components to working with students. I cannot expect students to things that I am not willing to do. Communication and relationships will fail without proper example. My ability to be open and represent the ideals being communicated to the students will help equal success. I believe that I will have the most successful impacts on those students I work with by building relationships through communication, education, and role modeling. I strongly believe in an open-door policy and I exhibit this with my staff and residents by having my door open literally and figuratively. My staff and residents know that I am always open to their questions, comments, and/or concerns whether through direct communication (my door is open) or indirect communication (email). Strong leaders are created through committment to role modeling. I strongly believe that learning occurs inside and outside of the classroom. Student affairs professionals have the unique task of helping to foster this learning and growth outside of the classroom. I welcome this challenge and I appreciate the ever changing days and situations so I continue to grow as well.