Some of the sessions will be challenging and may be heavy in different ways. Communicate your needs, boundaries, and feedback with lead staff if you find you need additional support.
Being uncomfortable and struggling a little bit can be indicative of growth, but if you feel yourself reaching an intolerable threshold it is okay to step out of a session for a little bit to collect yourself and breathe.
If you need to step out of a session and are able to, please let a lead staff member know so they can account for your wellbeing and whereabouts. If you are unable to notify a lead staff member, one of them may follow you out to make sure you’re okay.
All lead staff are here to support you. So if you need someone to sit with, talk to, or if you just need a hug please reach out and let us know.
Asking for help is courageous, not weak.
Advice from Your Returners!
Utilize Returners & Lead Staff!
"Reach out to your returners and lead staff if you have any questions about any part of SLD! It can be a lot of information but we're here to support you and answer any questions you may have."
- Stanton Li
Check In With Yourself!
"SLD is going to be a whirlwind of fun, but it's also important to check in with your mental health along the way. If you're not used to a 9-5 work schedule, it will take a little adjusting at first, so lean on your fellow RAs and Lead Staff for support if needed and remember you're not alone! Soak in each moment and give yourself the space to fully relax afterwards. Finally, I highly recommend participating in fun bonding activities with your staff, even if that means just going to In N Out or playing a card game. Those little moments may not seem consequential now, but it will set the stage for an incredible year to come and help you grow closer to your awesome team!"
- Shoshana Medved
Take Your "Introvert" Time!
"I know you’ll want to hang out with all these new friends you’ve just met (aka your new coworkers for the year) but don’t be afraid to say you need some time away from them as well. My team last year would say we needed 30 min to chill out in our room between the end of an SLD day and hanging out to work on other stuff, and it worked really well for all of us without feeling awkward about asking for time alone (p.s. don’t be afraid to ask for more time if you need!!!)
I also recommend making sure you leave at least one of your weekend days to be COMPLETELY off. That means no working on door decs no posters no homework just do what you want and tap into those hobbies that bring you comfort and peace to rejuvenate yourself!"
- Emily Machado
Take Care of Yourself!
"I think it's really easy to get burnt out during SLD when you don't take care of yourself, get lots of sleep, and do things that help you recharge during the weekends! Also never be afraid to leave a session if the content feels too much for you."
- Abby Van Slyke
Step Up & Step Back As Needed!
"My best tips for SLD are to: 1) don't worry about answering questions wrong. 2) step away from training if you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed. If you have an answer to a question, share it! SLD is a time to test yourself and put to use the information you're receiving during training. Your answers can help you reflect on areas of improvement and strengths. Additionally, the material covered during SLD can be heavy so if you ever feel yourself becoming overwhelmed, feel free to notify a lead staff member and take a step out. Mental health is important for an RA so don't feel as though you have to neglect your own!"
- Samantha Estrada
Find the Balance!
"1) I'd recommend bringing something silently to fidget with. Sometimes it can be hard to focus for long hours and having something to play with can help. 2) Take notes. There is so much important information that it is hard to immediately take in. Having notes allows you to learn the most information possible to become the best RA you can be. 3) Spend time with your coworkers. Building a relationship with your fellow RA's is extremely helpful, especially when school picks up and there is less time to hang out. Having a strong relationship will also make it easier when asking for help in the future."