by Ivo Ivanov Gyurovski '09

Approximately ten days before classes began, the student members of the residence life staff came back to campus to participate in a week-long training program. The diverse and rigorous schedule was a well-balanced mixture of lectures, delivered by people of different backgrounds in leadership, and interactive sessions where the new and returning Resident Advisors prepared for potentially challenging situations.

During the first day of training in a discussion led by Wes Lawson '04, Assistant Dean of Students for Residence Life, Resident Advisors focused on communication among the members of the RA team.  Following, Dean Lawson introduced Mr. David Carter ’93. Currently owner of four companies in different spheres, Mr. Carter also enjoyed a successful career here at Hampden-Sydney.  According to Mr. Carter,  being a Head Resident Advisor was the most valuable experience in his college career and set the tone for his business success.

Among other issues, Mr. Carter discussed his experience as an RA, and offered comments on what constitutes a good RA.  In order to illustrate the importance of making a difference, Mr. Carter shared his experience with an international student from England.  At the beginning of the academic year the student had a strong desire to leave the College. However, week by week for the next month Mr. Carter managed to persuade him to stay “for a few more days.” Several years later, during Homecoming the same person approached Mr. Carter, and told him that he was a PhD candidate in the University of Virginia. Through numerous other situations involving students, Mr. Carter learned how crucial it is to be authentic.  He acknowledged the particular difficulties arising the RA being in a “gray” area, having disciplinary authority and supervisory responsibility while still being a student.  In his final words Mr. Carter highlighted the need to be sensitive towards residents’ concerns and problems.

For two days of training, the Resident Advisors focused attention on dealing with potential problems in their halls. Some of the topics of discussion and role playing included various forms of misconduct such as substance abuse, sexual harassment, or conflicts based on prejudice.  In order to increase the preparedness for emergencies every Resident Advisor was required to take a course on CPR and First Aid as part of the training program.





On the next day the resident advisors had the opportunity to enjoy a discussion led by Lt. General (Ret.) Sam Wilson and Lt. General (Ret.) Jerry Boykin.  Based on their individual experiences, the two generals offered profound advice for the team of Resident Advisors.  Gen. Wilson defined the resident advisor job as having preventive and motivational responsibilities, the execution of which depends on being impartial at all times.  He also discussed with the students the mission, function, and purpose of the Resident Advisor.  Gen. Boykin emphasized communication between the Resident Advisor and his residents. He shared with the audience the expectations of the Hampden-Sydney Man.  According to Gen. Boykin the Hampden-Sydney Man develops in a variety of areas, some of which are honor, the exercise of individual freedom which does not infringe on others, mutual respect, and hard work.

During the second to last day of training the Resident Advisors, along with other student leaders, participated in a day-long Student Leaders Summit.  Among the topics of discussion, the emergency response system was of particular importance. Whether it is bad weather or a shooting incident, similar to the one at Virginia Tech, the College seems to be well prepared for immediate response. The generator-powered Library and Commons can work around the clock where staff members and student leaders are expected to assist the college community with emergency needs.

The training program came to an end with the matriculation of freshmen on Saturday, August 23, when all Resident Advisors had to begin executing their duties. Dr. David Klein '79, Dean of Students, commented on that day as being the smoothest in nineteen years.