Dear lovely ladies,
You do not know how excited I am to have you finally here at Hope College. Your arrival today has made me realize that this is actually happening. I am really an RA, and all 18 of you are my residents.
Coming to the residential hall today, you all were probably a mix of emotions—anxious, thrilled, and sad. I know the feeling. But I'll let you in on a secret: I felt all of those today along with one more—intimidation.
That's right, every single one of you intimidates me. I have this desire to be a perfect RA, but unfortunately there is no such thing. Being an RA is a tough job. There is so much weight on an RA's shoulders because we are put under a microscope—it's like we are on duty 24/7. It's easy to understand people's interest in my pursuit of being a residential assistant. So when I am asked, I respond with:
I am a responsibility junkie.
I love meeting new people.
I enjoy helping others.
I want to be a resource to freshman and new students on campus.
I want to be a mentor, in some respects, to others.
These are my intentions with you ladies, and I hope over the course of the next eight months, you can see these, in some capacity, come to fruition.
My main goals for our group is to foster a community of understanding, unity, and friendship. I know, it's cheesy, so please allow me to explain.
Each of you comes from a different background, living a life with unique experiences that set you apart from one another. Every one of you has a story that has been shaped by good times and bad times. It is important that as a community of individuals we respect and understand one another and each and everyone's story.
I know that there will be drama this year—that's inevitable. That being said, I have this theory that if, as a group, we form solid connections early on, we can recover. This is especially important considering our housing situation. Your rooms open onto a common area that we are all able to use. Unlike other residential halls where each room opens onto a hallway, it it's not easy to avoid others in the "cluster."
Like the drama point, I cannot expect all of you to become best friends with one another. However, I do highly suggest treating others how you would like to be treated. I would think everyone would like to be treated in a respectful and friendly manner.
I just threw a lot of information and wishful thinking at you girls, but if there is anything I want you to take away from this letter, it is this: I care deeply for each and every one of you, and I am praying for all of you as you all tackle your freshman year, which will be filled with challenges, triumphs, friendships, and new experiences.
Blessings,
Hannah
