This reflection has allowed me to polish and reflect why I have been in Higher Education for so long. Helping others make a difference in their life, their educational journey. Being able to listen to different stories and why the student is coming back to school or starting school for the first time.
Being able to be the voice of the institution and build relationships external and internal with individuals is so important. I feel it says a lot about individuality and aligns with helping others and one another.
Being in admissions has taught me patience over time, and to become a better listener, however, there are times I want to interject, and I have to stop myself quickly, still a work in progress.
The Key Competencies for Success, a reminder for myself to always be opening to new tools and how they can be applied using your own personality; and knowing that every technique does not apply.
Now, something new "Requisite variety" I have realize this scenario, however, did not know what it was actually called. Admissions indeed runs into situations such as this daily; the stories may be similar, but each is unique in their own way.
I have found myself in years and months where I have questioned myself, "what I'm I doing wrong" when it seems nothing is working. I did not try to recreate the wheel, however, the mindset had to change; started to concentrate on what makes me happy, read scripture, played music to change the environment, so I would come across with a positive voice.
Last, I would like to say, the profession that I am in has had ups and downs, and I do not think we share our own personal experiences enough, to help our peers, get through the ups and downs of the industry and how it effects your mental and physical health if you do not have a work life balance.
I believe that when you start to feel good about yourself, and this transitions to the conversations you have over the phone and in person, which in turns allows one to become more confident in their role.
