As RAs, we all know that the programs and events that you put on for your residents are important. I know, my position requires me to have 6 programs for the first 6 weeks of classes to help my residents meet people and feel welcome. 6 programs...that can seem like a lot. Especially when you want to cater to most of your residents. I have 58 residents, and it is hard to think of something everyone will enjoy.
The truth of the matter is that you can't please everyone, and not every single person will show up. This is okay! I spent plenty of time stressing about fun things to do for my residents. Below I have listed some of the things I have done thus far.
1. Floor Dinners: A weekly dinner on the same day and at the same time each week. This is a great way to get residents involved and connect with them on a more personal level. This isn't a program as much as it is year long consistent dinner residents can feel welcome to attend.
2. Finger Nail Painting Party: I had this in my room on a weekday evening. I had such a good turnout.
Residents brought nail polishes, and we all sat around, painted our nails, and chatted. A great igniter! Also, super minimal set up...woo!
3. Career Planning: This was a program that touched a little deeper. One of the faculty members at my college agreed to come and talk to some of my residents about careers, resumes, interviewing, and answer any questions my girls might have. We planned this about a week before career fairs started, so my residents had time to process the information and apply it to their time at the fairs.
5. Cookies and Milk: Super fun and delicious idea. I ordered about 6 dozen cookies, bought some milk, and opened my door on a Thursday night. Great turn out. Who doesn't love free food...cookies in particular. Some girls stopped in for the whole time and chilled, others just stopped in, got a cookie, and left. Just a great way to let people feel welcome and offer a yummy treat.
More to come as I plan more programs. Let the inspiration commence.
-Kristen
The truth of the matter is that you can't please everyone, and not every single person will show up. This is okay! I spent plenty of time stressing about fun things to do for my residents. Below I have listed some of the things I have done thus far.
1. Floor Dinners: A weekly dinner on the same day and at the same time each week. This is a great way to get residents involved and connect with them on a more personal level. This isn't a program as much as it is year long consistent dinner residents can feel welcome to attend.
2. Finger Nail Painting Party: I had this in my room on a weekday evening. I had such a good turnout.
Residents brought nail polishes, and we all sat around, painted our nails, and chatted. A great igniter! Also, super minimal set up...woo!
3. Career Planning: This was a program that touched a little deeper. One of the faculty members at my college agreed to come and talk to some of my residents about careers, resumes, interviewing, and answer any questions my girls might have. We planned this about a week before career fairs started, so my residents had time to process the information and apply it to their time at the fairs.
5. Cookies and Milk: Super fun and delicious idea. I ordered about 6 dozen cookies, bought some milk, and opened my door on a Thursday night. Great turn out. Who doesn't love free food...cookies in particular. Some girls stopped in for the whole time and chilled, others just stopped in, got a cookie, and left. Just a great way to let people feel welcome and offer a yummy treat.
More to come as I plan more programs. Let the inspiration commence.
-Kristen