Move-in is exciting, chaotic, loud and usually uncomfortably hot. As a Resident Advisor or other student leader, it’s easy to feel like it’s an intense challenge, and like you need to have amazing conversations with every resident you see. First – you’re going to rock it, no matter what. Second – some of the best first impressions come from the smallest moments and acts of kindness.
You don’t have to spend eight hours introducing yourself. Instead, look for little ways to make someone’s day a little easier. Look for the jobs no one else is doing, or that no one else wants to do at first.
I’ve done this one before, and it’s one I suggest to my staffs: becoming the “trash RA” (or when I do it, the Recycling RLC). Grab a moving cart or wagon and wander your halls asking, “Anybody have cardboard or trash I can take for you?” Families usually have mountains of boxes piling up, and taking one extra task off their plate is a surprisingly memorable act of kindness – it makes more space in the room and helps everyone relax a little.
If you notice people struggling with an armful of boxes, hold doors open for a while. If your building has a confusing entrance or unloading area, spend some time outside helping people find the right place to go. A quick “You’re in the right spot!” can calm down an anxious family who’s already driven in circles. Just be mindful of the weather and temperature; don’t spend so long outside that you overheat.
Helping is important, but so is taking care of yourself. Move-in is a marathon, not a sprint. Drink water before you feel thirsty, grab a snack, sit in the air conditioning for a few minutes, and switch off with another RA if you’ve been outside for a while. A tired RA isn’t nearly as helpful as one who takes a few minutes to recharge. You get one chance to make a first impression, and you want to start off on a strong, supportive foot. It’s also not your job to run yourself ragged to please everyone else; it’s not nearly as impressive to do this than it is to set boundaries and take time for yourself so you can show up as your best self.
Finally, think about what will make your community feel different from every other hallway on campus: maybe you’ve got music playing in the lobby, a themed welcome sign, a photo backdrop, or a fun hallway challenge that encourages people to explore the floor. Hall pride doesn’t happen because of one giant event. It starts with little details that tell residents, “Someone was excited for you to get here.”
Residents won’t and can’t remember every conversation they had during move-in; things are just too chaotic most of the time. They’re more likely to remember the RA who carried a box, took their trash, held the elevator, or made them smile after a long day.
