New Beginnings

I have not formally entered the Student Affairs/higher education profession, which makes it difficult for me to speak about transitioning into a full-time role. That said, I do recall entering the broadcasting and library worlds as a new professional. Being new anywhere forces one to navigate new terrain while acclimating to workplace culture and practicing what one learned in one's chosen field.

Renn and Hodges (2007) surveyed ten new higher education/student affairs professionals in a longitudinal study. They saw three significant themes emerge as these professionals completed three phases of their jobs (pre-employment and orientation, transition, and “settled in”). New professionals recognized the importance of “relationships, institutional and professional fit, and issues of competence and confidence.” (Renn and Hodges, p. 373).

             Although I have not entered the profession, I can appreciate each element of this study's findings. Relationships and fit fall under the category of “belonging.” Higher education/student affairs professionals encourage activities and programming to foster a sense of belonging on campus. It’s no wonder new professionals in the field want their institution to fit their beliefs/praxis. A good fit promotes a sense of belonging.  New professionals want to develop relationships with peers and supervisors. Solid relationships help new employees navigate their workplace and allow them to contribute and collaborate.  The first job in a profession can serve as a training ground and set the tone for subsequent experiences.  As a newbie tests their skills, they will find satisfaction in using what they have learned to be part of the whole and to demonstrate that they deserve a seat at the table. A new professional who wants to continue to learn and grow will also start to see what they are doing well versus where they need to improve. Interacting with and observing more seasoned professionals is an education. A quote from a Student Affairs Podcast notes: “Don’t stop shining because someone is scared of your light” (Edwards, 2007). It jumped out because I’ve been in a competitive work environment. Competition can be a good motivator. I’ve also learned that not everyone will be as excited as you are. [KK2] Some might even resent your enthusiasm. You must recognize your authenticity and find places within your organization where it is welcomed. It’s essential to keep your light shining; if circumstances don’t allow it, change your circumstances.

     This podcast’s guests also discussed the need for new professionals to continue learning, which I think is valuable advice no matter what profession. Whether I was working on the radio or as a librarian, I had to learn to use new equipment and software to enhance my work.  

     One speaker on this podcast gave several examples of creating opportunities for themselves by being “open.” A sense of openness allows you to say “yes,” which ties into a principle of improv— “yes, and…”, which indicates an openness to collaborate with a partner to build something together (Hishon, n.d.). New professionals allow opportunities to develop when they are open to saying “yes” to invitations to collaborate or to have lunch with someone.     

References

Edwards, K. (2022, July 27). Lessons Learned for Being a Great New Professional. Student Affairs NOW. https://studentaffairsnow.com/being-a-great-new-pro/ 

Hishon, K. (n.d.). Improv Game: Yes, And… and No, But…. Www.theatrefolk.com. https://www.theatrefolk.com/blog/improv-game-yes-and-and-no-but 

Renn, K. A., & Hodges, J. (2007). The First Year on the Job: Experiences of New Professionals in Student Affairs. Journal of Student Affairs Research and Practice, 44(2). https://doi.org/10.2202/1949-6605.1800 

 [KK1]Suzanne, I am not sure of why this first paragraph wont left justify. Please work on that, ok?

 [KK2]Suzanne, I almost spit my coffee out this morning when I read this sentence.  It is soooo true!!! Great reflection to share with your readers!