Residence life is an important part of the college experience, whether that comes from being a resident, resident assistant (RA) or resident director. The impact that comes from serving in these roles not only transforms those encountered by the leaders but also the leaders themselves. When Kaylyn Moran was an undergraduate student at Asbury, she served as an RA. She now serves as the Resident Director (RD) of Glide Crawford and Assistant Residence Life Director in Student Development.
“It helps me realize that every interaction has the possibility to teach something about ourselves and the world,” Moran said. “At the same time, it infuses our interactions and relationships with deeper meaning.”
The relational aspect of working as a resident director is an impactful part of the job for Moran. Through her interactions, it feels as if she has never met a stranger because of the welcoming presence that she tries to bring to others.
Becoming a resident director is something that she wanted to do not just because of the guidance she is able to provide for others, but also because of the positive RAs and dorm life experience that she had while she was a student.
“Back when Netflix came to you by mail, and people actually checked CPO,” Moran said, “My RA had the entire series of ‘Alias’ and we would all gather in her room to watch it, and after we would all pretend to be spies.”
Community is a unique, valuable and impactful experience at Asbury for various reasons. Living in an environment where you can be poured into and return that same love and care for others is something that transforms your experience, often leaving long-term effects.
“Residence life has taught me that when you live in community with others, the interruption is the Christian life. When someone interrupts you, it allows you to love people and set aside our personal agendas,” Moran said. “Learning how to do relationships well with others, with yourself and with God is an important part of this season of emerging adulthood.”
Aside from being an RD, Kaylyn is also working towards her Masters of Divinity. She has spoken in chapel, taken students on social justice trips to Chicago and helped coordinate service opportunities on campus.
