Supporting Students in 2020: Life as a Remote Residential Leader

In February 2020, Eliza was busily preparing for a fun-filled year of events, activities and meetings with her community as part of her role as a Residential Leader (RL). But COVID-19 had other ideas, and Eliza, like many of our other residents, was compelled to return home to complete the remainder of her year studying off-campus. Whilst restrictions eased in later months and Eliza had intended to return, eager to engage with residents through her ongoing role as an RL, a return to lockdown resulted in the decision to enable her to continue remotely in the position for the remainder of 2020. In this unique position, Eliza would attend meetings and online events and engage with students individually or via group forums. Eliza, although some several hundred kilometres away, remained a dynamic and impactful presence within our residential community.

Now nearing the conclusion of 2020, we spoke with Eliza about her experiences this year:

Why did you decide to become a remote Residential Leader in 2020?

I had always planned to return to campus, but unfortunately, like a lot of plans this year, they had to be adjusted. Since I was unable to physically return to campus I decided to become a remote RL so I could continue to contribute and be a person of support for all members of our DeakinRes community.

What have been some of the highlights of being a remote Residential Leader this year?

I really enjoyed our ‘Zoom room hangouts’ because I was able to catch up with other ressies and chat in small groups, which isn’t always possible at large in-person events.  One of my biggest highlights would have to be helping to organise our virtual Res Ball.

What were some of the challenges of being a remote RL?

Being a Residential Leader during a normal year involves establishing a balance between study, work and a social life, but undertaking the role remotely added an additional challenge. Despite the challenge, it has opened my eyes to what I am capable of and it’s been an experience I’ll never forget.

What did you enjoy most about this year?

I honestly loved that I was able to maintain my connection to the res community despite being away from campus. After moving back home in March I was devastated at the thought of missing out on a year of incredible experiences, and despite having to adjust aspects of the Residential Leader role, we proved as a team that we have the ability to adapt and work through challenging times to provide a positive res experience for everyone living on campus. Being a remote RL this year has been a fantastic experience, and I’m very thankful for the support received by the other wonderful RLs and our Campus Life staffing team.

Residents at our Burwood campus will have the chance to meet Eliza when they arrive on-site in 2021.