Fall 2015 Perspectives

12 • NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY Student Affairs Reflections from a Graduate Assistant It’s hard to believe that just three years ago I was a wide-eyed newbie in the halls of the Health Professions Division, ready to embark on my four-year Doctor of Audiology journey. I remember how nervous and excited I was to face the new challenges of graduate school, even though they seemed quite daunting at the time. I’m not sure what was more intimidating—the 80 percent final grade required to pass each class or the fact that, unlike undergrad- uate classes, the first day of class was not solely reserved for going over the syllabus. All of it represented a total change in pace from my undergraduate experience, and I really wanted to prove to myself, my family, and my teachers that I was up to the demands and could succeed. I clearly remember my first day of orientation, which included meeting classmates who would quickly become my family members, meeting professors, and getting to know more about my new university. Even from my first day, I observed Terry Morrow Nelson’s gentle and kind personality and Jonathon Infante-May’s hilarious and gregarious persona. Little did I know that I would soon become part of their team. Shortly after beginning my doctoral studies, I was hired as the graduate assistant for the Office of Student Affairs. Although I truly didn’t know what to expect or know if I could reasonably handle demanding coursework and a part-time job, I was up for the challenge. To my happy surprise, I became part of a kind and supportive office and quickly learned how to juggle my new responsibili- ties as a full-time student and part-time office worker. I learned so much in my time working as a graduate assistant for the Office of Student Affairs. In this role, I gained a deeper appreciation for all the behind-the- scenes planning that goes into making each and every event a successful reality. Over time, I grew more confident as I communicated with students, staff and faculty members, and individuals within the commu- nity. I gained a better understanding and appreciation for all the other health professions, and I now have more of an appreciation for interprofessional collaboration. Furthermore, I learned the art of living a balanced life. The knowledge and experiences I have acquired have not merely been helpful to me in my role in the Office of Student Affairs, but will also carry over to my future success as an audiologist. My three academic years have flown by, and soon I will be off to complete my clinical audiology externship year at All Children’s Hospital in St. Peters- burg, Florida. Of course, I will miss my wonderful audiology faculty members and classmates who have mentored, shaped, and influenced me in more ways than they will ever know. Just as significantly, I will miss the smiles that greeted me daily as I walked into the Office of Student Affairs and the kind individuals who I interacted with, both within the department and within the university at large. My years within the Office of Student Affairs will always remain a fond memory. I wholeheartedly thank my wonderful Office of Student Affairs team members for their consistent support, gentle encouragement, and unwavering belief in me. n By Judith Lynch, B.S., B.A. Graduate Assistant, Office of Student Affairs