Devotion to lifelong learning is a vital practice that I immensely value and should be

required of all higher education professionals to stay current with issues that influence higher
education. There are many skills, competencies, and types of knowledge that are crucial to
improving the dynamic development of higher education. One of the most essential skills to
practice is intentionally having the courage to reach out and get to know people and their
environments. Building and cultivating relationships with colleagues in their departments and the
whole institution can help a person gain an understanding of the culture and the people who
shape that culture. In addition, decision-making lies within people who are able to create change
within educational institutions. Therefore, making an intentional commitment to know people
and the environment can further encourage collaboration in effective decisions for the success of
the institutional mission.
Understanding ones own lived experiences is another indispensable knowledge to
practice in higher education. This program has introduced me to different subjects that have
prompted me to critically reflect upon my journey and inform my work. I was able to identify
areas of improvement such as my oral and verbal communication skills, and gain an awareness
of how systems of power, privilege and oppression affect our practice in student affairs.
In relation to understanding oneself, is having the willingness to relate to students and
colleagues that we hope to serve. Building meaningful relationships that do not only pertain to
academics can foster a diverse community that is interested in furthering students development
and the mission of the college or university. Additionally, I have found that cultivating
relationships within my cohort and internship site makes it easier to openly engage in discussions
of necessity.

It is truly imperative for higher education professionals to actively and purposely seek out
opportunities for continuous professional and personal development. As a new professional, one
of my goals to continue my professional development in the field is attending national
conferences such as ACPA, NASPA, and NACADA and become an active member through
submitting proposals to present. These conferences provide an opportunity to attend sessions of
best practices, introduce emerging ideas in the field, and provide opportunities to network with
people in the field. Being apart of these organizations will contribute to my individual and
professional growth. Another goal I hope to accomplish is remaining up to date with current
issues through reading books, articles, and websites such as the Chronicle of Higher Education. I
learn abundantly from reading as well. For example, I acquire new ideas that influence my
personal and professional development. In conclusion, I hope to continue to engage in lifelong
learning, and educating myself, and others.