The end of the year can be very challenging for RA's to find the
energy and motivation to finish on a high note. For Jacob McPherson,
nothing could be further from the truth. During the month of April,
Jacob has put an exclamation mark on his time as a resident
assistant for Stratton Hall. During the month of April, Jacob was an outstanding staff member for
many reasons. One example includes a student he helped tremendously
as they were going through a rough time. Jacob's focus was always on
making sure the student would be all right. Jacob noted that the
student told him that he was the only person they told about what
they were going through and how hard things were for them. Jacob not
only helped this student during multiple evenings of distress, but
also has helped them find the motivation and strength to finish out
the semester. Jacob has also been incredibly supportive of Hall Council and
Signature Events during the month of April. Jacob helped set up for
every single event held in Stratton Hall, stayed at each event in
their entirety, and stayed to help clean up and help in any way he
could throughout the month. Jacob was also supportive of other
events on campus and of his fellow staff members. For example: April 9th and 18th: Jacob helped the Stratton Hall Council with
their traditional events, Donut Stress. At these events, Jacob was
bright eyed and cheery at 7am to help set up for the events, often
arriving before Hall Council members arrived! He stayed at both
events and cracked jokes as people grabbed coffee and donuts. Over
two hours later, for both events, Jacob helped the Hall Council
clean up and made sure that they also had good days. April 5th: Jacob supported one of his fellow RA’s and brought
residents to the Dance Theater Show on campus. Jacob’s support at
the Dance Theater Show meant the world to his fellow RA, and to his
other peers who were in the show. April 17th: Jacob assisted at two Signature Events; Stratton Snacks
and DIY Name Signs. These two events, which totaled over three
hours, were made infinitely better by Jacob’s enthusiastic presence
and energy. Jacob was extremely helpful in setting up heavy tables
and helping clean utensils and supplies during and after these
events. April 24th: Jacob was a point person for the Stratton Hall Spring
BBQ. He helped carry tables outside, start the grills, carry out
additional supplies, served as a DJ, and greeted dozens of students
by name as they came to the event, including students from multiple
other buildings! April 30th: Jacob helped with the final Hall Council event of the
year; Muffin Monday. Similar to the Donut Stress events, Jacob was
present and engaging with students from early in the morning until
well after the event ended. Jacob knows how to make others feel
cared for and known in the halls because of the relationships he has
built. Jacob has shown that he is genuinely passionate about all aspects of
his position, which is clear from his involvement and dedication
during the month of April. However, this has been the trend for
Jacob throughout the year. Jacob’s character and work ethic speak
volumes to the outstanding leader he is. As his time as an RA comes
to a close, Jacob’s legacy will be one of unconditional support,
laughter, and encouragement. I am so thankful for the work Jacob
has put into his role and for the lives, he has changed as an RA in
Stratton Hall.
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