So you’re probably wondering why the title of my post is “Orange, Passion Fruit, and Jasmine.” Well, I hate to disappoint you, but there is truly no significance to what I feel is a rather clever name. Haha.

Actually, that’s a lie.

Orange, Passion Fruit, and Jasmine is the flavor of tea I have been drinking lately, and I must say it’s definitely worth trying. All credits to Lipton. (My deepest apologies for my lack thereof humor and creativity.)

…moving on…

So here’s to my first actual post of Summer 2013. For those that don’t already know, I am interning at the University of Louisville this summer. I am the summer Conference Coordinator through Housing and Residence Life at the university. My first day on the job I got promoted in the sense of job responsibilities (not so much in pay) because there isn’t technically a full-time professional in the position anymore. Keep word- anymore. The full-time Conference Coordinator left the position last October and the department has yet to find her replacement. Therefore, when I got here mid-May, I already had a laundry list of projects and task items. Some would find it overwhelming and stressful, but I actually find peace in chaos. Chaos is an opportunity for organization, which is my strongest skill-set.

Anyways, this is my fifth week on the job and I am loving every minute of it. In five weeks, I have had already had quite a number of on-the-job experiences, which makes for an interesting and exciting remainder of the summer. I walked into an unoccupied position with no formal supervisor until two weeks ago. The one person responsible for helping me with the job transition is leaving this weekend because she took a job in Arkansas, and the person responsible for mentoring and coaching me is currently job searching and ready to leave whenever. Three weeks into my position, I had to fire one of my conference staff for breaking a list of housing policies, and then had to troubleshoot a major conference master schedule error. Haha. I must say, it has made for a very interesting past couple of weeks.

Although it was an overwhelming start, I couldn’t have been placed in a better department with more supportive and genuine people. The Housing and Residence Life department at the University of Louisville is just spectacular. They may not be a flagship department in the world of higher education and student affairs, but they sure know the meaning and value of intentionality. And to me, that’s the most important thing you can have. Since the day I stepped foot on campus, I could feel the investment the department had in my internship experience, and their commitment to my personal and professional development. Everyone wears so many different hats here, but no one ever falters to lend a helping hand when you are in need. I love the camaraderie among the staff and the way everyone welcomes you as family. I have learned an invaluable amount in just five weeks and am anxious what the next month and a half has in store.

Well, I hate to stop writing because I have so much more I want to share, but I really need to make ground on my thesis work before a meeting tomorrow. Until next time, orange, passion fruit, and jasmine. 🙂