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Professional Development Articles

Don’t Let the Chaos Haunt You: Tech Tools to Keep Res Life Less Spooky

By: Kyle Hamlin, WACUHO Communications and Tech Coordinator

October 20, 2025

October is here, and with it comes costumes, candy, and creepy decorations... but if you work in housing and residence life, the real scares might look more like schedule mix-ups, budget surprises, and inboxes full of ghosted emails.

 

Don't worry, I've been there. But with a few helpful (and mostly free) tech tools, you can keep those chaos creatures at bay and focus on what matters: supporting your students, building community, and maybe even enjoying a pumpkin spice moment or two.

 

Let’s break down some common housing horror stories and the tools that can help you conquer them.

 

1. Scheduling Scaries: Taming the Roster Monster

Between RA shift swaps, forgotten duty nights, and too many versions of the same calendar, it’s easy for things to get spooky fast. Here’s how I keep the schedule from turning into a nightmare:

  • Google Sheets or Excel (shared):

    • Build a master schedule with roles across the top (on-call, desk, programs) and staff names in dropdowns. Use conditional formatting to highlight double-bookings or gaps. Bonus: Use formulas to auto-count shifts per person so things stay fair.

  • Scheduling platforms like WhenToWork, Sling, or Deputy:

    • These apps let your staff claim open shifts, get real-time updates, and sync with their calendars. It’s like giving your team a crystal ball.

  • Shared Google or Outlook Calendars:

    • Link duty scripts, contacts, or reminders right in the calendar invite. Plus, automatic reminders help everyone stay on track, even during midterms.

Pro tip: Start your semester by sending out an availability form to your staff. Then let ChatGPT or Gemini help you sort through it and even build the first draft of the schedule for you. It’s not magic - it’s just smart use of AI.

 

2. Budget Boogeymen: Stop the Phantom Spending

There’s nothing scarier than finding out you’re over budget... especially when you don’t know who spent what. Here’s how I keep financial surprises from creeping in:

  • Google Sheets + Templates:

    • Set up a budget tracker with columns for category, authorized amount, amount spent, vendor, and remaining balance. Use formulas to auto-update totals and even create individual sheets for student staff if they manage funds.

  • Expense apps like Expensify or Zoho:

    • These tools let staff upload receipts and submit expenses for approval. Some can even auto-categorize spending. Less paper. Less confusion.

  • Simple Dashboards:

    • Create a visual budget tracker with graphs or charts to show where you’re at, helpful for monthly check-ins with your team or supervisor.

  • Set alerts for spending thresholds:

    • Use conditional formatting or email rules to get notified when you hit 75% or 90% of a budget line. That way, you’re not caught off guard in November wondering where the snack money went.

 

3. Email Overload: The Curse of the 1,000 Drafts

We’ve all been haunted by repetitive emails. “Welcome back!” “Here’s your duty shift!” “Don’t forget to log your program!” Instead of rewriting the same thing over and over, try these:

  • Email Templates (Gmail, Outlook, StarRez, etc.):

    • Save time by writing templates for common messages. If your platform supports variables, you can auto-fill names, dates, and other details.

  • Mail Merge with Google Sheets + Gmail add-ons:

    • Need to send a personalized message to 20 staff? Merge it from your roster sheet and hit send. AI like ChatGPT can help you write or test the script.

  • Boomerang, Outlook Delay Send, or Zapier:

    • Schedule reminders, automate follow-ups, or even create triggers like “send this email when a form is submitted.”

  • Snippets & Shortcuts:

    • Tools like TextExpander let you type a shortcut (like “;dutyreminder”) and auto-fill a full message. I also use AI to reword reminders so they stay fresh and less robotic.

 

4. Bonus Tech Tricks: Keeping the Unexpected from Biting Back

Even when things are running smoothly, surprises happen. These tools help you stay ready:

  • Shared document libraries:

    • Use Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox to keep key files organized. Create folders by area (ResLife, Facilities, Conduct) so everyone knows where to look.

  • QR Codes + Google Forms:

    • Want program RSVPs or quick feedback? Link a form to a QR code and post it around your building, on program posters, or on door flyers.

  • Notion, Trello, or Asana:

    • Great for task tracking, supply orders, or staff projects. A little structure helps prevent miscommunication and missed deadlines.

  • Automated calendar invites:

    • Recurring events like staff meetings or RA check-ins? Set them up once with built-in reminders so no one forgets (including you).

 

5. Putting It All Together: Your Tech Action Plan

Don’t try to do it all at once - just start with one pain point and go from there:

  1. Pick the area that’s causing you the most stress (scheduling, budgets, emails, etc.).

  2. Choose one tool to try out. Keep it simple.

  3. Test it with a small group, maybe your RAs or just your community.

  4. Ask for feedback. What’s working? What’s clunky?

  5. If it’s working, roll it out to your full team and make a quick how-to guide.

  6. Optional Step 6: Celebrate your win. Share it with others in your department or within your WACUHO network or email list. You might save someone else from their own tech nightmares!

 

Final Thoughts: Treat Yourself to a Smoother Semester

Residence Life can feel unpredictable, but the chaos doesn’t have to haunt you. A few smart tech tools, plus a little creativity, can help you feel more organized, more confident, and way less overwhelmed.

So this October, pick one process to simplify. Set it up once. Watch the scary stuff melt away. And maybe grab a candy bar - you’ve earned it.

Professional Well-Being: Managing our Relationship with our Cellphone

By: Marie Montoya, WACUHO Secretary

September 18, 2025

It’s no secret technology is a part of our everyday lives. Our cellphones are incredibly convenient, as they serve as a centralized technological tool that afford us varied options for social connection, workplace efficiency, entertainment, and instant information accessibility. It makes complete sense why it’s the public’s favorite everyday tool. As technology continues to evolve and expands its reach (e.g., AI, automation, social media platforms), when do we reach a point of too much tech? Health professionals have indicated excess screentime can have negative impacts on physical and mental health (Bradly Ruder, 2019; Descourouez, 2024). This post is not meant to shame anyone for using tech, as I too enjoy the perks that come with my tech. This post is meant to encourage reflection and alternatives that nurture our well-being with and outside of tech. Let’s be real, the Housing & Residential Life profession is demanding work. It’s vital as professionals to take care of ourselves to be able to serve our students and show up for our teams, especially when we compound our responsibilities with our current political climate and the impacts it’s directly having on higher education institutions across the country. Below you’ll find a playful list of suggestions to consider that can help promote mindfulness in your daily life. Pick & choose your adventure!

​

Reflection

Reflection questions to enhance your understanding what your relationship with your phone looks like (Leclaire, 2025)

  1. Can I put my phone away at certain times of the day?

  2. How can I use my phone as a tool, instead of letting myself be used as a product?

  3. Are there any push notifications or messages that I can turn off?

​

Offline Activities

  1. Engage in activities that allow you to use your hands such as cooking, puzzles, sewing, gardening, sketching, woodwork, etc.  

  2. Get inspired by The Offline Club. It’s a social club located in Amsterdam focused to get folks offline and connect in-person through non-tech activities. This organization has coordinated global initiatives such as the “Global 24-hour Digital Detox Challenge”. Anyone reminisce MapQuest?

  3. It’s undeniable we are living in a time of stark political division in our country coupled with global humanitarian crises that make tuning into the news feel overwhelming. It’s vital to stay informed to be engaged citizens and advocates for the causes and institutions we believe in, yet protecting our mental health is a key part of this process. Consider these media consumption tips:

  • Reading printed articles can help alleviate the anxiety from just reading “breaking news” notifications

  • Pick 1-2 topics you want to dedicate time following

  • Engage with various credible news sources to gain a fuller perspective on a topic (e.g., ordinary people documenting their personal experience, follow non-profit organizations, academic writing, independent news media, & podcasts.)

  • Read books to develop language outside of your social media echo chamber

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Move Your Body

It’s easy to fall in the “all or nothing” thinking trap when deciding to commit to a physical fitness plan. The majority of us have been there when we set that New Year’s resolution of hitting the gym three times a week for the whole year and by March you're like “gym who?”. And that is OKAY. Trust, I have definitely been that person one too many times. It comes down to this. We must be honest and realistic of the demands of our everyday lives to find the time and space to commit to physical activity. Our commitments to our physical health don’t always have to be a grand gesture or perfect to be impactful. The ultimate goal is to move our bodies. Here are some simple, yet impactful ways to get started:  

  1. Engage in the most underrated form of exercise, walking (Darthmouth Health, 2025)

  2. Take the stairs (USC WorkWell Center)

  3. Micro-stretches to address Tech Neck

  4. Calm App Users- Daily Move with Mel Mah

 

Workplace Wellness Initiatives

Check out free or discounted wellness resources offered by your employer. Some resources offered by universities include discounted rates to their recreational centers, ergonomics evaluations, or health incentives tied to your health insurance. If you are unsure what wellness programs or incentives are offered by your employer, start by connecting with a Human Resource (HR) representative to find out.  

 

The more integrated technology becomes into our everyday lives, it’s important we take conscious decisions on how it should serve our lives and set boundaries to protect our mental health. Engaging in reflection, offline activities, moving your body, and using health incentives offered by your workplace is a great start. As Housing & Residential Life professionals and educators, we are called to the profession to serve others and in return we are all deserving to serve ourselves by dedicating time, energy, and space to care for our well-being. 

The Weight of Pro Staff Summer Trainings: How to Protect Your Peace as You Gear Up for the New Year

By: Cassie Butcher, WACUHO Central MAL

August 21, 2025

Summer training season has a way of sneaking up on us. One moment it's quiet on campus, and the next your calendar is packed with all-staff meetings, campus partner meetings, crisis simulations, DEI workshops, endless prep work. 


There’s team bonding, ice breakers, policy refreshers and a whole lot of pressure.


Pressure to be ready.
Pressure to lead with clarity.
Pressure to support others before the academic year even begins.


And while these trainings do matter… they can also feel heavy.


For many student affairs and higher ed professionals, summer isn’t a break. It’s the busiest time of year.


The demands are constant.
The expectations are high.
The hours are long.


And the emotional energy it takes to hold space for others? It’s a lot.


If you’re feeling the mental fog, fatigue, or the creeping anxiety about what the school year will bring, then this article might be helpful.

​

Before You Pour Out, Fill Up

It’s easy to show up for training season on autopilot: powering through meetings, over-prepping for sessions, and being overly available to everyone but yourself. But peace isn’t something you “find” once the semester calms down, it’s something you protect, even in the busy seasons.

​

Here are a few reminders as you move through summer trainings and prepare for the new year ahead:

​

1. You don’t have to be “on” all the time.
Just because it’s training season doesn’t mean you need to perform or prove your worth. Show up authentically, not performatively. Rest when you can. Speak up when needed. Silence does not mean disengagement, and participation doesn’t always mean overextending.

​

2. Pace yourself. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
August will turn into September. The academic year will unfold. You cannot solve every team dynamic, fix every policy gap, or perfect every system in one month. Let training be the starting line, not the finish line.

​

3. Name the tension, normalize the emotion.
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. It’s okay to have moments where you’re over it. You are human. Normalize saying things like, “Today felt heavy,” or “I need to reset.” This allows your team to be human too, and that’s what makes a sustainable work culture.

​

4. Protect your transitions.
Build in soft moments between training and the school year. Take the walk. Close your laptop. Eat lunch without multitasking. Say no when it’s needed. You don’t have to earn rest, you’re already worthy of it.

​

5. Anchor yourself in your “why.”
When the days feel long or disjointed, return to your purpose. Why did you say yes to this work? Who are you hoping to impact this year? Let that guide how you lead, not urgency or fear.

​

6. Take care of the body that holds the stress.
Deep breathing in between sessions. Stretching after sitting. Ice water in the heat. Movement when you feel stuck. Burnout starts in the body before it shows up in the mind. Don’t ignore what your body is trying to tell you.

​

7. You deserve joy even in busy seasons.
Go to your favorite coffee shop. Send the funny meme. Dance in your office. Do something each day that feels like you. You don’t have to wait until move-in is over or your first conduct case to stabilize. Joy is a part of wellness too.

​

Final Thought: Let Peace Be Your Strategy
The beginning of the academic year sets the tone. You deserve to start this year feeling steady, not just prepared. The more grounded you are, the more sustainable your leadership becomes. So don’t just gear up, fill up. Protect your peace like it's part of your professional development…because it is.

​

You can do meaningful work and be well.
You can lead others and care for yourself.
You can start strong without burning out by October.
Take what you need. Release what you don’t.
And may this year be led with intention, not just urgency.
 

Keeping Community First: You Have a Voice - Make a Difference! Choosing Your Local
Representatives

By: Tom Hilanto, Officer for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

July 29, 2025

Choosing Your Local Representatives 

Your voice matters now more than ever. Every election is your chance to influence your community’s direction and help shape a future that reflects your values. This is especially true when it comes to choosing local representatives—leaders whose decisions affect your neighborhoods, schools, public services, and daily life. Participating in elections is not just your right, but an important responsibility.


Why Local Elections Matter 

While national races get plenty of attention, local elections often have the greatest direct impact on your daily life. The outcomes determine who will represent your interests on school boards, city councils, county commissions, and special districts. These officials:

  • Make decisions about funding for education, housing, and parks.

  • Set priorities for public safety and infrastructure.

  • Craft policies that affect social services and environmental sustainability.

Each vote is meaningful. Historically, local elections are decided by much smaller margins than federal or statewide contests. Your ballot could easily be the one that changes the outcome in your community.


Key Upcoming Elections in Your Region 
Here’s a look at notable elections coming up soon in California, Nevada, Oregon, and Hawaii. Mark your
calendars, learn about the candidates, and make a plan to vote!

​​​

California

  • August 26, 2025: Special General Election for Assembly District 63, plus various county-level district and special ballot measures.

  • November 4, 2025: Numerous municipal and local elections, including in Los Angeles County, Santa Clara County, and several others.

​

https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/upcoming-elections/county-administered-elections


Nevada

  • March 4, 2025: Special election for mayor and Ward 2 city council seat in the City of Nevada (note: distinct from the State of Nevada, this pertains to the city named Nevada).

​

https://www.nvsos.gov/sos/elections


Oregon

  • August 26, 2025: Local elections including various ballot initiatives and positions. Oregon’s universal vote-by-mail system makes participation convenient for all eligible voters.

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https://sos.oregon.gov/voting-elections/Pages/default.aspx


Hawaii

  • August 8, 2026: Primary Elections including various ballot initiatives and positions. Voted ballots must be received by 7:00pm by the County Elections Division. Additionally, voter service centers and places of deposit close

  • November 3, 2026: General Elections including various ballot initiatives and positions. Voted ballots must be received by 7:00pm by the County Elections Division. Additionally, voter service centers and places of deposit close.

​

https://elections.hawaii.gov/


Steps to Make Your Voice Heard

  • Check Your Voter Registration
    Ensure your registration is current, especially if you’ve recently moved or changed your name.
     

  • Learn About the Candidates and Issues
    Local news outlets, county websites, and voter guides can help you understand what’s at stake.
     

  • Evaluate Whose Platforms Align with Yours
    Consider what matters most to you: education, housing, climate action, social justice, or economic policy.
     

  • Vote Early or On Election Day
    Many locations offer early voting or secure ballot drop-off. Plan ahead to avoid any last-minute issues.
     

  • Encourage Others
    Remind friends, family, and colleagues that their voices matter too.

 

Your Vote, Your Future

Choosing candidates who represent your values and priorities ensures your community develops in a direction you believe in. Don’t underestimate the power of your single vote. When you show up to the polls or mail in your ballot, you are investing in a brighter future for everyone.


Use your voice. Make a difference. Vote for the candidates and measures that matter most to you!

Defending Access: University Responses to the Erosion of Federal Support for Diverse Student Populations 

By: Tom Hilanto, Officer for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

May 21, 2025

In 2025, President Donald Trump's administration introduced significant budget reductions affecting postsecondary education, particularly impacting vulnerable student populations such as former foster youth and students with disabilities. These cuts, coupled with structural changes to federal education oversight, have raised concerns among educators and advocates. (Kiplinger - Will Trump's Education Dept. Order Hurt Scholarships and Key Tax Breaks?) 

 

Key Budgetary Changes 
The administration's budget proposal includes a 40% reduction in federal rental assistance programs, effectively ending initiatives like Section 8 housing vouchers. While $25 million is allocated for housing grants targeting young individuals aging out of foster care, the broader cuts to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) threaten the stability of many students who rely on such support. (NPR - Trump budget would slash rental aid by 40% — and let states fill the gap if they want) 


Concurrently, the Department of Education faces substantial downsizing. An executive order signed by President Trump aims to dismantle the department, transferring responsibilities such as student loans and special needs programs to other agencies . This move includes halving the department's workforce, notably affecting the Federal Student Aid office and the Office for Civil Rights. 


Implications for Vulnerable Students 
The proposed changes pose significant risks to students with disabilities and those from foster care backgrounds. The restructuring of HUD's rental assistance into state-controlled block grants may lead to inconsistent support, potentially increasing homelessness among students. 


The downsizing of the Department of Education raises concerns about the continuity of services for students with disabilities. The transfer of special needs programs to the Department of Health and Human Services lacks clarity on implementation, potentially disrupting Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and other essential services . (The Sacramento Bee - Federal funding cuts threaten California students’ educational opportunities) 


Recommendations for University Stakeholders 
In response to these developments, university employees, leadership, and administrators can take proactive steps:

​

  1. Advocacy and Policy Engagement: Engage with policymakers to express concerns about the impact of budget cuts on vulnerable student populations. 

  2. Resource Allocation: Prioritize funding for support services that assist students affected by housing instability and disabilities.

  3. Community Partnerships: Collaborate with local organizations to provide housing, counseling, and academic support for at-risk students. 

  4. Information Dissemination: Ensure students are informed about changes to federal aid programs and available institutional resources. 

  5. Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish systems to monitor the effects of policy changes on student outcomes, allowing for timely interventions. 

  6. Legislative Outreach and Coalition Building: Proactively reach out to state and federal representatives to advocate against harmful education cuts, emphasizing the specific needs of former foster youth and students with disabilities. Universities can strengthen their advocacy by forming coalitions with peer institutions and community stakeholders to amplify their voice and push for equitable funding policies. ​​

​​

By adopting these strategies, universities can mitigate the adverse effects of federal budget cuts and continue to support the success of all students, particularly those most at risk.

Keeping Community First: Upholding Diversity and Belonging in Student Housing

By: Tom Hilanto, Officer for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

April 30, 2025

In the wake of President Donald Trump's recent executive orders aimed at dismantling federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, university housing professionals face new challenges in maintaining inclusive environments. These policy shifts, including the termination of DEI offices and the prohibition of DEI-related federal contracts, have created uncertainty within higher education institutions. (HR News and Analysis | HR Dive Leadership Conference)

​​

Understanding the Policy Landscape

Executive Orders 14173 and 14190, signed in January 2025, revoke previous mandates that required federal contractors and agencies to implement DEI programs. These orders also direct the cessation of DEI-related positions and activities across federal agencies . Additionally, Executive Order 14151 mandates the termination of all DEI mandates, policies, programs, preferences, and activities within federal agencies. (WikipediaWikipedia+1Leadership Conference+1)
 

These federal actions have prompted investigations into institutions like Harvard University for alleged violations of civil rights laws related to DEI practices . Such developments underscore the need for university housing departments to navigate these policy changes while upholding their commitment to diversity and inclusion. (The Guardian)

​​​

Strategies for Upholding DEI in University Housing

Despite federal policy shifts, university housing departments can adopt several strategies to continue supporting DEI:

​

  1. Reaffirm Institutional Commitment
    Universities should publicly reaffirm their dedication to fostering inclusive communities. This can be achieved through statements from university leadership and the integration of DEI principles into institutional mission statements.

  2. Engage in Dialogue
    Facilitate open discussions among students, staff, and faculty about the implications of recent policy changes. These conversations can help identify concerns and collaboratively develop solutions to maintain inclusive environments

  3. Implement Inclusive Practices
    Continue to implement inclusive housing policies, such as gender-neutral housing options and cultural competency training for staff. These practices ensure that all students feel respected and valued within the housing community.

  4. Monitor and Adapt
    Stay informed about ongoing legal and policy developments related to DEI. Regularly review and adjust housing policies and practices to ensure compliance with current laws while maintaining a commitment to inclusivity.

  5. Collaborate with Advocacy Groups
    Partner with external organizations that specialize in DEI to gain insights and resources that can support the development of inclusive housing strategies.

​

(Higher Ed Dive, Reuters)​

​​

While recent executive orders have introduced challenges to DEI initiatives within federal agencies, university housing departments retain the autonomy to foster inclusive environments. By reaffirming their commitment to diversity, engaging in open dialogue, implementing inclusive practices, monitoring policy changes, and collaborating with advocacy groups, housing professionals can continue to support all students effectively. These efforts are crucial in ensuring that university housing remains a space where every student feels a sense of belonging and respect.

The Power of Self-Appraisals: Building Self-Awareness at Work

By: Cassie Butcher, WAUCHO MAL Central

February 25, 2025

In today’s fast-paced workplace, where feedback is often external and reactive, how often do we pause to reflect on our own performance and growth? Self-appraisals, often associated with formal performance reviews, are more than just a professional obligation. They are an opportunity to deepen self-awareness, take ownership of our development, and realign with our goals.

But let’s be honest—how many of us take self-appraisals seriously? Instead of viewing them as a “check-the-box” exercise, what if we used them as tools to genuinely understand ourselves better and thrive in our roles?

​​

Why Self-Awareness Matters at Work

Self-awareness is a superpower in the workplace. It’s the foundation for emotional intelligence, better decision-making, and stronger professional relationships. When we understand our strengths, areas for improvement, and personal triggers, we’re better equipped to navigate challenges and grow into leadership roles.

Without self-awareness, it’s easy to misinterpret feedback, fall into patterns of overconfidence or self-doubt, or even stagnate in our careers. Self-appraisals provide a structured way to reflect and create actionable plans for improvement.

​​

How to Conduct a Meaningful Self-Appraisal

Self-appraisals don’t have to feel overwhelming or self-critical. Here’s a simple guide to make them intentional and empowering:

​

  1. Start With Honest Reflection
    Ask yourself: What am I most proud of in my role over the past period? What didn’t go as planned, and what did I learn from those experiences? Focus on specifics rather than generalities—it’s easier to track growth when you have concrete examples.

  2. Revisit Goals
    Review your short- and long-term goals. Are you on track? If not, what barriers are in your way? Reflecting on goals isn’t just about accountability; it’s about recalibrating and making adjustments as needed.

  3. Gather Feedback
    Self-awareness isn’t just about introspection; it’s also about understanding how others perceive you. Pair your self-appraisal with feedback from peers, managers, or mentors. Look for alignment—or discrepancies—between your perception and theirs.

  4. Celebrate Wins
    Don’t rush past your achievements. Take time to acknowledge what you’ve done well, whether it’s leading a successful project, improving a skill, or simply showing up consistently during tough times. Recognition fuels motivation.

  5. Identify Growth Areas
    This isn’t about being overly critical. Frame growth areas as opportunities. For example, instead of saying, “I’m bad at time management,” say, “I’m working on prioritizing tasks more effectively.”

  6. Create an Action Plan
    Use your reflections to outline a few clear, achievable goals. What steps will you take to improve? Who or what can support you in this process? Be specific and realistic.

 

Tips for Completing End-of-Year Self-Appraisals

As the year wraps up, self-appraisals often make their way onto our to-do lists. It can feel daunting to summarize an entire year of work—especially if you haven’t kept track along the way. Here are some tips to help you approach your end-of-year self-appraisal with confidence and clarity:

​

  • Start Early—Track Your Wins Throughout the Year

    • Keep a running list of accomplishments and challenges throughout the year. Use a journal, a note-taking app, or a “Kudos” folder in your email. Record:

      • Key projects and results.

      • Positive feedback from colleagues or supervisors.

      • Lessons learned from setbacks.

    • By keeping a record as the year unfolds, you’ll avoid scrambling to remember specifics when it’s time to submit your appraisal.

  • Align Your Achievements With Goals

    • Revisit your goals and show how your accomplishments contributed to those objectives. This demonstrates your alignment with team and company priorities.

  • Highlight Challenges and Growth Moments

    • Use self-appraisals to reflect on challenges you faced, what you learned, and how you grew. Framing setbacks as opportunities to improve shows resilience and adaptability.

  • Use Specific Examples

    • Provide measurable outcomes to illustrate your achievements. For instance:

      • “Trained three new employees, reducing onboarding time by 20%.”

      • “Improved customer satisfaction ratings by 15% through process changes.”

  • Be Honest and Confident

    • Don’t downplay your contributions. Frame your successes confidently and acknowledge areas for improvement constructively.

  • End With Gratitude and Future Goals

    • Express gratitude for the year’s opportunities and outline what you hope to achieve next. This leaves a positive impression and shows commitment to growth.

 

Self-Awareness as an Ongoing Practice

The magic of self-appraisals lies in their regularity. True self-awareness isn’t a once-a-year task; it’s a habit. Set aside time each month or quarter to reflect on your progress, journal your thoughts, and document feedback.

 

Transforming the Workplace Through Self-Awareness

Imagine a workplace where self-awareness is the norm. By regularly reflecting on our performance and growth, we contribute to a culture of continuous learning and shared accountability. So, the next time you’re prompted to complete a self-appraisal, see it as more than a task—it’s your chance to step into the next version of yourself with clarity and purpose.

Making the Most of WACE

By: Adam Dowrie, WAUCHO Communications & Tech Coordinator

January 23, 2025

Attending WACE, or any professional conference, can be an invaluable experience for career growth and networking. Here are some key strategies to maximize your WACE experience:


Prepare Thoroughly
Before WACE, review the agenda and identify sessions that align with your goals and interests. Research presenters you'd like to connect with and prepare some conversation starters. Set clear objectives for what you want to achieve, whether it's learning about student housing trends, networking, or meeting vendors at the exhibitor hall to fill a need.


Optimize Your Schedule
Plan your days strategically, balancing sessions, networking events, and breaks. Arrive early to familiarize yourself with Harveys and Harrahs and collect your conference badge. Consider staying at the conference hotel to increase informal networking opportunities, reduce travel times, and save money with the negotiated conference rate.


Engage Actively
During sessions, take notes on key takeaways and formulate thoughtful questions. Participate in Q&A sessions gain deeper insights. Don't be afraid to approach speakers after their presentations to discuss their topics further. Presenters are friendly and are typically happy to connect and discuss more about their presentation topic.


Network Effectively
Networking is a crucial aspect of conferences. Be open to meeting new people, especially during breaks and social events. Connect with attendees before, during, and after WACE. When meeting new people, consider exchanging business cards so that you can continue to connect after the conference ends.


Leverage Technology
Take advantage of the WACE conference app and social media. Follow the conference hashtag to stay updated and engage in online discussions. Use digital business cards or QR codes for quick and easy information exchange. Don’t forget a laptop or tablet for notetaking and organization.


Balance Your Time
While it's tempting to attend every session, remember to pace yourself. Schedule breaks to reflect on what you've learned and to recharge. Use downtime to visit with other attendees, rest, or respond to time sensitive emails or work. Take advantage of opportunities to eat and hydrate so that you can stay focused and nourished.


Follow Up
After the conference, follow up with new connections. This will increase your network and may assist with future employment opportunities. On campus, share your experience and takeaways with colleagues who couldn't attend, which can help reinforce your own takeaways and strengthen your departmental practices.


Reflect and Apply
Take time to review your notes and reflect on the most valuable insights gained. Develop an action plan to implement new ideas or strategies in your work. This reflection process ensures that your WACE conference experience translates into tangible benefits for your department. 
By following these strategies, you can make the most of your WACE experience, expanding your knowledge, and growing your professional network. Remember, the value of WACE extends far beyond the event itself – it's about the connections made, the knowledge gained, and how you apply these insights in your professional life moving forward.

Is Leadership Dying in the Field?

By: Dr Christine Bender, WACUHO President-Elect

November 22, 2024

I have heard over the years a few different narratives that are concerning in a profession that thrives when those “seasoned” professionals take the “newbies” under their wings. I have either heard “I don’t need a mentor I can figure out on my own” or “I don’t have time.” Yet the counter narrative is how necessary mentorship is, so where do we find that balance. Mentorship lately has been discussed as a meaning/necessary concept but how many of us truly engage in a meaningful mentoring relationship, rather as a mentee or a mentor. Whether new professionals or seasoned professionals’ mentorship is a beneficial relationship for both parties, consider this:​

Benefits for Mentors

  • Opportunity to reflect on your own practices

  • Enhances professional and personal satisfaction

  • Develops professional relationships

  • Stay up to date on what is happening (widens understanding)

  • Increase in self-worth by sharing knowledge

  • Strengths interpersonal skills

  • Further develop one’s own leadership skills

  • Commication​

Benefits for Mentees

  • Provides impartial advice and encouragement

  • Develops a supportive relationship

  • Navigation of political acumen pitfalls

  • Improves self-confidence and self-worth

  • Offers professional development

  • Encourages reflection on practice

  • Teaches on how to take ownership over their career - advocate for oneself

  • Educate on how to receive and accept feedback critically

Mentorship almost serves like a “cheat code” to navigating the political landscape of higher education and in some cases personal development. While personal reflection, self-reflection and a growth mindset are all foundational keys to development; mentorship can shed light on the areas we don’t want to address or identify clearly while also reaffirming and validating the pieces we don’t see as strengths initially. One of the biggest realities of mentorship is in most cases a mentor is not going to fall into your lap, meaning someone is not likely to walk up to another person and randomly say “I want to mentor you.” And let’s be honest that might be a little awkward and weird and one would probably say “no thank you.”


Mentorship tends to happen in one of three ways: (1) naturally over time with no real definition of a defined mentoring relationship established. This tends to be very common and typical for a lot of us, especially early in our careers. (2) asking someone to be your mentor or offering to mentor someone through either naturally over time or through a professional experience/interaction. (3) through a mentorship program where each party is assigned to one another. What makes the last two have a leg up in a successful and intentional mentorship relationship is this typically comes with establishing expectations and what someone is hoping to gain from the dynamic.


Seeking a Mentor? The best words of advice here, find someone you admire, someone you find does their job well, find someone that inspires you and then… simply ask them if they have the capacity to mentor you. In most cases, individuals are flattered and happy to take a young professional under their wing so to say. Look for these qualities in a mentor (and mentors, in habit these qualities):

- Listens. They will maintain eye contact and give you their full attention.
- Guides. They will assist you in finding direction but never pushing you in a direction.
- Practicality. They will give insights while also provided realistic goals and priorities.
- Educates. They will educate you about life and career.
- Insightful. They will use their personal experience to you avoid mistakes and learn from good decisions.
- Accessible. They will be available as a resource and a sounding board.
- Criticizes Constructively. When necessary, they will point out areas that need improvement, always focusing on behavior and never character.
- Supportive. No matter how painful an experience, they will always encourage you to learn and improve.
- Specific. They will give specific advice on what is done well and what can be corrected.
- Cares. They will care about you professional and personal development.
- Successful. They will be successful themselves and strive to foster the same in others.
- Admirable. They will be well respected in their organization and/or community.

Yes, mentorship can be seen as time consuming but it can also be the reason we have a reignited passion, the reason we can say this is why I do what I do, the reason we don’t leave the field, or the reason we say it is totally worth the time.

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