Self Reflection #2

Although I could write about the multiple service, educational, or club groups I was a part of in high school, I believe my most recent group I consider myself to be a part of the most impactful on my life currently: Suite 201. I am not an official resident of Suite 201, but I (as well as them) consider myself a part of their tight knit group. Yes, Suite 201 is not a service group or necessarily has a “leadership” role, but I believe it demonstrates the relational leadership model. For context, I joined this group during the first week of school through Aaron and Carmen initially. Now, I hit it off with the members of Suite 201, and I really spend more time in their suite than in my own dorm room. Everyone in Suite 201 has a different personality and interests, but we are constantly looking out for each other, such as giving emotional support, helping each other with homework, and just enjoying each other’s company. The actual residents of Suite 201 bought a doormat during the Target Run that says “you’re about to get hugged.” Now, it has been a tradition or requirement for at least one person in the suite to hug the person who just entered through the door. This goes for everyone who enters (unless they decline the hug), and it is extremely inclusive. I love this especially because the official residents of Suite 201 is made up of guys, and in this country, guys are taught to not willingly be affectionate like that. I also believe it helps with the touch starvation problem in college students (since oxytocin deprivation is prevalent in this school setting). Most of their doors are always open, and 201 A is the designated “hang out” spot for everyone and visitors. The group loves having visitors over, and a lot can go on in the 201 A room at once. For example, I’m on my computer writing this reflection, three people outside of Suite 201 are in here and playing cards, someone’s on the chair doing independent work, and two other people are helping each other out with their chemistry homework. Although this group does not have a set or definite purpose, I believe it is our duty just as people to make everyone at ILV and others outside comfortable, welcome and to provide a safe space for socialization and self expression. I value the freedom of self expression plenty, and having a space where I can be myself in college I am eternally grateful for. I feel welcome whenever I’m in Suite 201, and they really make me feel included, comfortable, and cared about, and I hope others who come in feel that way as well. 

I would implement this into my service proposal by making people feel comfortable and giving them a safe space. I know I do not know what I want to do for my proposal just yet, but through this experience I realize how passionate I am about the freedom of self expression and safe spaces. I also am very passionate about plants and environmental education, and creating a safe environment in order to carry out those teaching purposes is extremely important. Fostering a space where people can input their ideas and learn from others and not just a singular teacher or definite leader. I believe having that type of community that brings different people together will be able to solve current problems today. In order to solve problems you need a variety of people so the general public will be able to come to a consensus and can move forward as a community. I want to bring different people together like Suite 201 does, and to create a healthy space for people to commune and learn.