I became a Resident Advisor because I wanted to help students transition into college and feel comfortable in a completely new environment. Serving as a peer resource and mentor has allowed me to support residents through academic stress, homesickness, personal challenges, and conflicts while also connecting them with campus resources when needed. Through these experiences, I have strengthened my empathy, communication, and leadership skills and learned how to actively listen and respond in a way that is both understanding and solution-oriented. I have also learned how to balance enforcing university policies and maintaining a safe community while still remaining  approachable and supportive, which can be challenging but is incredibly important. The most rewarding part of being a resident advisor is seeing residents who were once strangers begin to build friendships, become more comfortable on campus, and develop a genuine sense of belonging within their community.