"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." - Benjamin Franklin
Yesterday, I discussed with a father the type of locks he should purchase for his daughter's bike. This morning, I keyed into an empty room to measure (with a ruler) the height of a bed for a mother purchasing a cabinet for her son. I expect these are only a glimpse of the interactions I will have with parents this year working in a residence hall, but I do not have an issue with them whatsoever.
As a Resident Assistant, I was told simply, "You do not have to deal with parents or guardians," "That is not expected of you," or even, "You do not get paid enough." The same is true at my current institution - I basically tell the RAs I supervise to send parents' calls and concerns my way. Whether it is customer service (a post on this is in the works), concerns with FERPA, or simply age, there are multiple reasons that a department of Residence Life would rather a Hall Director interact with parents, and so that role is put on my desk.
How do I approach said role? By applying my training, of course. We had a wonderful session discussing possible situations that could arise with parents, but the main idea I took away was "serve with a reassuring smile." That is exactly what I have done and will do: smile, use a reassuring tone, and serve as much as time and policy allow. It is most important to remember - or at least tell yourself - that they are only concerned for their students' comfort, safety, and education. Parents are our partners in our goal for providing the best educational experience possible. They will often also give us more insight into our students' lives and development. And yes, in many cases they also help pay the resident's rent and the student's tuition. Just another connection to campus.
Quote Citation: Franklin, B. (n.d.). BrainyQuote.com. Retrieved from: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/b/benjaminfr141119.html.
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