Photo via Centre College Special Collections
As student affairs professionals we are aware of the various differences between two year and four year schools, but while sitting and relaxing during my holiday break I began to wonder what my students were up to during their time off. Indeed, it is no secret that many of our students stay in our main building from when it opens to when it closes. Sometimes they stay by choice but others stay out of necessity. Necessity in this case is defined in multiple ways. Undoubtedly, many don’t want to go home, many avoid other responsibilities, and many even avoid going to class all together.
Needless to say I always think of the ones who prefer not to be at home due to what’s going on at home. My mind begins to wonder what they are avoiding and how this week, which may seem never ending to some, is affecting them. Moreover, I automatically think, am I doing enough to help these students? Do they know of all the resources available to them inside and outside of school, if they need them? Have they tried reaching out to me and I’ve missed the cue? Certainly the what if’s, should haves, and ought to’s plague my mind.
It is at this moment that I reassure myself that I have done all I can, but underneath I believe that I can always do more.
My question for all of you is, do these thoughts cross your mind during long term school breaks? If yes, how do you reassure yourself that you have done enough? And what have you done that may helpful to others?
Juhi Bhatt works as a Career/Transfer Counselor and Coordinator of Judicial Affairs at Bergen Community College.
