“It’s no secret that adjusting to life at college is hard,” says Priscilla Bracamontes ’21 who works as a community assistant (CA) in Anderson Hall, one of 16 living-learning communities on the main University of Redlands campus. Anderson Hall is home to about 200 first-year students.
A native of the high desert not far from Redlands, Bracamontes was drawn to the University by its commitment to diversity and inclusivity. A liberal studies and music major, she contributes to the community via her passion for music, including in performances such as the Feast of Lights and those in the city of Redlands.
She saw that the role of CA would also afford many opportunities to contribute, as well as to develop professional skills. “With a career goal of becoming an educator in the field of special education, I wanted to practice skills such as creativity, patience, adaptation, and many more that this role offers,” she says.
As a CA, one of Bracamontes’ initiatives was organizing a celebration of the traditional Mexican holiday Día de los Muertos, which honors deceased loved ones. She partnered with the Spanish department to celebrate the day with fun and educational activities such as decorating balloons to look like sugar skulls and creating a photo booth dedicated to the celebration of life.
“I love my role as a CA because it allows me to connect students, help them get fully immersed in the Bulldog experience, and create unique programs for students to remember long after they leave Redlands,” she says. “It’s not easy, but it’s so rewarding in many aspects. Not only are you creating an environment for others to grow, but one for yourself as well.”
Chris Barnes, resident director for Anderson Hall, adds, “We are a big family. Seeing students like Priscilla go above and beyond for the residents truly speaks to the personalized U of R experience.”
Students interested in CA positions with Residence Life and Housing can apply through the MyRedlands Housing Portal.
Learn more about the residential student experience at the University of Redlands.
