Thoughts from Corin Blanchard...
When asked what my most positive, rewarding work experience has been, I never hesitate to answer with my time at Lawrence. I worked for two years as a Residence Hall Director with a collateral position in Campus Activities Programming immediately following my undergraduate career. As a young professional, my experiences there offered me many insights, opportunities, and lasting relationships that far exceeded my expectations.
In searching for my next step after obtaining my Bachelor’s degree, I came to the conclusion that I was highly interested in student affairs as a profession, but was not ready to commit to graduate study at the time. I wanted a full-time entry-level position that would let me get my feet wet and help me determine where my future was headed. I couldn’t have had a greater opportunity than to work under Amy Uecke, who is an amazingly supportive and mentoring supervisor, and within the Division of Student Affairs at Lawrence, which is teeming with life, humor, and enthusiasm. If having a supportive, mentoring, flexible, and highly invested staff surrounding you is a priority, then Lawrence would be a great fit for you.
Lawrence University is the kind of school many people don’t believe exists anymore. As a small, residential, liberal arts college, Lawrence is reminiscent of the first institutions established, but prides itself on being relatively progressive, increasingly diverse, and legitimately competitive. The unique nature of the institution, including the presence of a conservatory of music and true student self-governance, attracts an amazing student body and working with them on daily basis was easily a highlight of the position. The students are bright, involved, committed, academic, talented and creative. The residences in which they reside are relatively small, resulting in tight-knit and comfortable communities. The ability and opportunity you have as a hall director to influence and inspire these students and communities is remarkable.
Beyond the pleasure of working with amazing students, staff, and faculty, the full-time hall director position includes a collateral position. This is an integral part of the Lawrence experience as a new professional, giving you a chance to learn, grow and function within another capacity outside of your hall. Lawrence’s small size makes it possible to gain knowledge and skills in a variety of areas, not just residence life. Professional development opportunities abound from presentations to conference attendance to committee work. If you find yourself at Lawrence, be certain to take advantage of all that you can!
The surrounding area of Appleton and the Fox Valley is surprisingly delightful. With the new Performing Arts Center and the conservatory of music right on campus, there is never a shortage of fine arts opportunities. There’s also a lot of opportunity for an active lifestyle, with many parks, trails, and so forth.
My time at Lawrence effectively prepared me for my next professional step: graduate study in Higher Education and Student Affairs at the University of Vermont. My experiences and relationships at Lawrence equipped me in more ways than I can express for the challenge of graduate study, the reality of working in the field, and the ongoing support I will need venturing into the future.
I would encourage anyone looking for full-time experience at a residential college to strongly consider Lawrence University and all it has to offer. If you have any questions or want some more information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Corin Blanchard