If you have ever lived in a Residence Hall, chances are you’ve attended or at least been invited to attend a “program” put on by your RA’s. So what exactly is a program and why do they matter so much?
RHD Ryan Greelish of Roncalli Hall provides a quick description:
Programming in residence halls is extremely beneficial in creating a safe and welcoming environment. Programs provide opportunities to educate students about the outside community, themselves, and resources on campus. A program can focus on a range of topics, for example self-reflection, service learning, diversity and academic content. Resident Assistants are given a programming model to make sure that their programs hit a broad spectrum of thoughts, ideas, and information. The areas they must incorporate are taken right from the University’s mission. They include:
· Knowledge of Self
· Rooted in Faith
· Educated in Mind
· Compassionate of Heart
· Response to Social and Civic Obligations
· Able to respond to an ever-changing world
Every RA in the building must work each topic into at least one program within each semester. This is to ensure that not only is community being built among residents but also that students are being enriched outside of the classroom. When educational programming takes place, there is a richer community that exists, creating a better experience for all those involved.
Programs can be informative and fun, not to mention the occasional incentive of free food. So what are you waiting for? Attend a program tonight!