So, you survived the first half of the academic year as an RA. Naturally, one of the most persistent things on your mind is how you can step up your game for the spring semester. You're familiar with your residents, you're comfortable with your building, and you've found a good balance between classes, extra-curriculars and time with friends. You've learned and grown this semester, and you're pretty exhausted. Needless to say, winter break is a blessing. You've been so busy, you haven't thought about what you want for Christmas, have you? Well, if your parents aren't sure what to get you, you might want to add these super important items to your Christmas list.
1. A lifetime supply of staples for all my bulletin boards
My bulletin boards don't put themselves up!
2. A boyfriend to bring dinner and coffee while you're on duty
Because I always realize I should have made a Dunkin Donuts run after I get back to my building and can't leave.
3. If a boyfriend doesn't seem attainable: gift cards to restaurants that deliver.
*Eats pizza in my building's office.*
4. Headphones.
That way, I don't have to pretend I didn't hear someone knocking. I probably just won't hear it. (Only use when you're studying or super exhausted - don't ignore your residents.)
5. A clip-on reading lamp
So then I can read in the dark - and if someone can tell by looking under my door that the lights are out, they're less likely to knock (in most cases, at least).
6. For everyone in my building to remember their keys
Santa is sitting in the North Pole thinking, "I just make toys, I'm not a miracle worker, okay???"
7. Bulletin board paper cut out to be the exact same size as the board in my hallway.
It would save so much time (and sweat).
8. One of those door signs from hotels that says "Do Not Disturb"
This needs no explanation! We all need time to ourselves.
9. To not have to take away any string lights during fire safety checks before winter break.
String lights can make a room look cozy and warm (if you don't believe me, check Pinterest), but you know what else is warm? Fires.
10. For people to stop telling me I look tired when I am already highly aware that I am tired.
If I look like the morning after it's most likely because someone called the duty phone at 4 in the morning.
11. No more loud music after quiet hours.
We can jam to Drake another time (before 1 a.m., preferably).
12. A new ringtone for the duty cell phone.
Because I keep having dreams where I hear the duty phone ringtone in the middle of the night (what's even scarier is that sometimes, it's actually happening).
13. For my friends to stop making plans while I'm on duty
"Come visit me after you get back."
14. A little more free time
Winter break just isn't a long enough time to be free of all my responsibilities.
15. Just a little more sleep
This is very important. Santa, Mom, Dad, friends - please take note of this.
