For Residence Life Associate Director Michele Burns, working with the St. Lawrence residential community isn’t just a job. Burns sees herself as part of a wider team of educators who help students integrate into their new campus lives.

For first-year students, adapting to the college living situation away from home may be challenging, but Burns and her staff are dedicated to addressing concerns and providing the resources they need to get started. “Our staff helps students in their first year identify expectations they have of themselves and others regarding residence in a community as well as connect with campus resources,” says Burns.

First-year students may not realize it, but they can have a significant impact on their own living situations. For example, “Your roommate may not be your best friend at college, but being willing to communicate about issues and demonstrate respect will make for a much healthier living situation,” says Burns. “When conflicts arise, take the opportunity to see a situation from another perspective and communicate face-to-face with your roommate.”

Burns faces many challenges as the residence life director. “I have learned that real growth occurs when students are willing to work through a difficult time and see the other side of a conflict,” says Burns. “Sometimes students aren't willing to allow themselves to be challenged or allow others the opportunity to learn from being confronted.” In her role as an educator, Burns believes fostering this kind of respect is essential.

Burns believes that the atmosphere at St. Lawrence allows students to see within themselves and grow to new heights, both personally and academically. At St. Lawrence, “Students can become much more self-aware over time and establish a deeper understanding of their role in a community,” says Burns.