SEAHO Report - Winter 2022 - 49

FEATURE ARTICLES
Overall, the biggest takeaways from my virtual
RELI experience were the knowledge learned and
connections established. Through every session, I
was constantly reminded that I wasn't alone in my
work as an entry-level professional within student
affairs. Throughout the week of sessions, I gained a
community of both entry-level professionals and higherlevel
housing professionals. The wealth of knowledge
disturbed during each session and lunch discussion was
priceless. Learning from their past mistakes and past
successes was extremely helpful as I continue to embark
on my journey as a professional in housing. I also learned a lot from the other entry-level professionals that
attended RELI. Each of us showed up, each day with a willingness to be transparent and honest with each
other. Together each of us as a large group established a greater connection that would carry us beyond
our virtual week together. As I stated earlier, I left the week feeling more refreshed as a professional and
with more clarity concerning my next steps. I'm extremely thankful for my RELI journey and the knowledge,
connections and community that was established during the week.
Faculty Perspective
As a young professional learning and growing in residential life, I was unable to participate in RELI. Fortunately,
I still found a wonderful home in SEAHO and forged great relationships throughout my time in the region.
Regardless of title, state, or experience level, I have always found a role to hone my leadership skills in this
organization. Much like Christal, I was envious of the bonds created within the cluster and alumni groups that
seem to be a type of fraternity during the annual conference. I truly wanted to be a part of such a grand tradition.
Many of us can struggle with imposter syndrome within our professional lives. It seems inconceivable that
we have achieved the stature or experience that qualifies us for our current roles, let alone roles like director,
dean, or faculty. I wouldn't say that I fully suffer from this exactly, but I would say that intrepid thought of
there always being someone " more qualified " liked to whisper ever so softly. Each year at SEAHO, RELI
faculty would be introduced to the organization and I finally realized...that could be ME! I discussed the
opportunity with my supervisor and several colleagues. All urged me to apply.
When it was time for RELI 2020, I eagerly completed my application and I was selected as a member of
the faculty! We met during SEAHO 2020 in Louisville to discuss our time at University of Miami, what we
were each responsible for covering, and how we could expect to spend our time with our cluster for the
week-long, intensive, in-person experience. As we met, cell phones were buzzing, folks were being pulled
away for meeting input back on their campuses, words like " pandemic " and " virus " were being whispered.
Nevertheless, we continued to meet. We were excited to brainstorm how we could transition topics, have
fun and interactive activities to help attendees understand how assignments fed into business operations
and facilities more completely. We made connections knowing that several of us had already developed
connections from committee work, interest groups, and even being classmates during our undergraduate
careers. We left SEAHO 2020 in Louisville with the grandest of plans, not knowing the curveball that was
heading our way.
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SEAHO Report - Winter 2022

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of SEAHO Report - Winter 2022