Calm... In the process, I can assure you most people are not calm. For me, the experience is calm but more so re-affirming my commitment to serve in higher education. If you asked my mentors, they would tell you that I appeared to be calmer at The Placement Exchange rather than the conference. However, I was not always this way. Many times I struggled to find my self, my understanding, and my place in this profession. A few months prior to The Placement Exchange I was stressed, panicked, and nervous about one thing.... the unknown. I am sure that the limited postings on The Placement Exchange website had me at a level of alarm especially when you look for Greek Affairs to find less than 50 positions available. As weeks progressed, my search intensified and navigated in many different directions. Although my map of the future was not clear, I knew I would find myself in this process. Until The Placement Exchange, I had few interviews that I connected. Now, I am in Phoenix for The Placement Exchange and the 2012 NASPA Conference and my fears have tampered down. To be honest, I worried that my housing colleagues would be successful and I would struggled. Obviously, I recognize that this is about fit not a competition among peers. I found colleges and universities that I adore and love while others will make great colleagues and partners for future collaboration.
In addition to the relationships with colleagues and universities, I created other new relationships that revolved around “THE TABLE” which was a common meeting spot for me and several other candidates across the country. The common meeting spot became in some regards our home. As each of the candidates come from varying backgrounds and interests, we found something in common – a passion for holistic student education and engagement. Although in some eyes, we appeared to be a clique but we are more than that. We are a strong formation of candidates supportive of the actions of our fellow tablemates. We ate together, laughed together, discussed the hard issues together, and found each other together. Although my cohort reflects certain similarities, it has been said that those who struggle together have an unparalleled bond.
Although The Placement Exchange may intimidate many candidates, there is something in this experience that brings out the underlying truths of student affairs professionals. First, be yourself – not the hypothetical or the “I am somebody in front of others.” You will uncover that finding yourself and being you are important to the success of your job search process. Second, this process is about “fit.” Be honest with yourself about how you feel in regards to the interview and interactions that you have with the professionals from the respective college or university. If you can be true to yourself and find the right fit – you set your self up for success. Third, be honest. Do not act like you can do something when you cannot. I realized in my process that I had no working knowledge of scheduling software for fraternities and sororities. As much as I wanted to say yes, I stated that I did not but was willing to learn. Finally, be patient. I recognize that this is the worst virtue for many young and entry-level professionals but I can assure you that good things come to those who wait.
Honestly, I believe that this has been a worthwhile experience. I would not change this experience for anything. I feel more prepared to present myself to others as well as give my story of past, present, and future endeavors as a professional. I also thank Florida State University for the countless hours of mentorship, preparation, education, and follow-up that you have invested into me as I prepare to take the next step in my professional career. The Florida State Division of Student Affairs, College of Education, and alumni have significantly influenced the man and professional that I am today. Although I do not know what the next step may be, I will continue to know that I am prepared for a professional in higher education and holistic student learning.
