Thoughts from Teege Mettille...
Like many people who attend OPE, I was looking for a school that would help give me a more complete understanding of the Student Affairs field. Eager to find a school whose mission closely matched my personal values, I was hoping that I would be able to find a work climate and university culture that were inclusive and encouraging, with an emphasis on the personal growth of both staff and students. I was fortunate enough to find just that at Lawrence University.
Serving two years as a Residence Hall Director at Lawrence University has proven to be the most beneficial opportunity that I discovered at OPE. I was looking for a better understanding of the Student Affairs field, and the collateral positions available at Lawrence are key to such enrichment. While managing the day-to-day operations of a Residence Hall and small house, I was also fortunate enough to serve as the Residence Life Training and Selections Coordinator. One of several positions available to a Residence Hall Director, my collateral helped me gain a more complete picture and comprehensive insight as to what a career in Student Affairs would really be like.
Lawrence University’s mission also mirrored my personal values. Focused on responsibility and personal growth, Lawrence boasts an environment of student involvement that I have not seen replicated on any other campus. From a very active student government to impressively high rates of student organization membership, the culture of campus has placed a deep emphasis on co-curricular participation that we all see as pivotal to a complete Liberal Arts education. There is an ethic of care at Lawrence that is seen in staff members throughout all departments. For example, I was pleasantly shocked when the Dean of Students was able to knowledgably talk to me about the progress and personality of the majority of students living in my hall. From President Beck on down, the entire campus staff demonstrates a desire to know students on a personal level that surpasses anyone’s expectations.
Lawrence University also places the needs of their administrative staff high on the list of priorities. Employees are encouraged to be actively engaged in creating change when needed, offering potential solutions whenever possible, and helping to merge their personal vision and goals with the position they hold. All of this is happening under caring, developmental and helpful supervision.
If you are reading this and considering applying to join the team at Lawrence University, I’d like to personally encourage you to do so. This job will help you better understand and enhance your own professional values, skills and abilities. Regardless of whether or not you continue in the Student Affairs profession, you will be able to look back at the benefits of your experience for years to come.
Teege Metille
Kohler Hall Director, 2004-2006
