Talking Stick - January/February 2018 - 60

SNAPSHOT

JAMES WOJTKIEWICZ
What's the biggest issue for the students on your campus right now?
We have a very rigorous curriculum which allows our students to explore,
identify, and express their "truth." We're at the stage in the academic year
where we have given them the tools they need to explore and identify,
and now it's time to draw the truth out through expression in their
performances. This comes with a lot of "a ha!" moments and a lot of tears,
both good and overwhelming.

What's the biggest issue you see facing the profession right now?
In general, the need for student affairs professionals to act as de facto
mental health professionals. While we see unique issues daily, not all
of us went through school to be doctors and mental health experts.
It's wearisome and is contributing to the burnout of student affairs
professionals in the industry.

What makes your campus unique?
Aside from being in the heart of Hollywood and among the larger studios
that have produced countless film and television pieces (a unique
connection for our students), our campus is the home of the former Charlie
Chaplain studio lot where he lived, conducted his business, and completed
his famous films. Another cool fact: Our theater is the old sound stage
where "We Are the World" was recorded in 1985.

What are your favorite campus traditions?

JAMES WOJTKIEWICZ is the
director of student services at The
American Academy of Dramatic
Arts in Los Angeles, California.

60

In my current position we have a student cabaret on campus. While the
conservatory's academic tradition focuses on acting and the dramatic arts,
it's inspiring to see the various talents in our population, which this event
allows them to showcase. It's also a wonderful opportunity for students to
connect their talents for personal projects.

What is your favorite move-in story?

What do you think will be the most
significant change in student housing in
the next five years?

Move-in day in general is the best feeling and keeps me motivated for the
year. The excitement about coming to campus and beginning an academic
and self-discovery journey is so invigorating and energetic.

We're already seeing it: the incorporation
of emotional support animals in the
residences. While some institutions
have the ability to house those who
have a need for emotional support
animals, not all housing is set up to be
so individualistic. Pairing students in
shared accommodations with those who
have emotional support animals can be
extremely difficult because we look for the
wellness of all our residents/students.

What motivates you the most in your job?

TALKING STICK

I have been both a faculty and student affairs member in my career. It boils
down to the impact I make. In the classroom I was fortunate to work with
non-traditional students who came back to school to better their life and to
be a role model for their children. The amount of work and sacrifice these
students put into the curriculum was inspiring. On the other end, watching
students develop into mature and professional humans who can navigate
the world is motivating.

What is the most challenging part of your work?
Being a resource for students during times of crisis. The empathy I have
is extraordinary for all my students, and it's so hard not adapting their
emotions and feelings when I have become so close to them and they're
going through a rough time.
Talking Stick - January/February 2018

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Talking Stick - January/February 2018
