ResEdChat by Roompact

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, Crystal talks with Dr. Megan Gerhardt, Professor at Miami University and author of Gentelligence. They explore how generational norms impact the way we live, work, and lead in campus housing, and why curiosity is the key to unlocking stronger, more connected teams. From late-night crisis responses to everyday communication breakdowns, Dr. Gerhardt offers fresh insight and practical tools to turn generational tension into opportunity.

In this episode of Roompact's RA*Chat, Sadie Billings shares her secrets for transforming random room assignments into genuine community. From awkward introductions to lifelong friendships! Discover proven strategies for building floor culture that extends far beyond the residence halls and creates connections that last. Guest: Sadie Billings (she/her), Academic Success Coordinator Host: Anthony Martinez Listen... Continue Reading →

We're thrilled to kick off our yearly tradition of uplifting our latest cohort of amazing bloggers, starting off with Andrew Skelley from University of Pittsburgh. He chats with Dustin about what brought him to the writing team, and how he has brought his authentic self to his work by using music and other interests to forge unique bonds with the students he serves. Stay tuned until the end of the episode where Andrew shares a funny ghost story from his years in the halls.

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, join our host Noah and guest Emma Grupe, Resident Director at Miami University of Ohio, to talk about the field and what it looks like to enter Residence Life without a degree in Student Affairs. As we all know, Student Affairs is typically not a job that people plan on entering, but what does it look like when you go at it from another angle all together? How do we do a job while learning how to do it at the same time? Join Noah and Emma as they tackle these questions and share stories and advice for new Residence Life Professionals. 

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, host Jasmine Nettles sits down with Trevis Belle to discuss the international student experience through the lens of student affairs, from enrollment to graduation. Whether you're looking to improve your efforts or looking to deepen your impact with their international student population, this conversation will offer powerful takeaways and practical ideas to do so. Trevis shares both personal and professional insights on the unique challenges international students face—from cultural transition and visa pressures to finding community and accessing support. We’ll also explore how student affairs professionals can better serve international populations, create inclusive environments, and challenge assumptions about the "typical" student experience!

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, Crystal talks with Matt Nelson, Director of Residence Life at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, about what it means to lead with intention and care. Our guest shares how values like recognition, patience, and empathy shape their approach to supervision and offers practical, creative strategies to support diverse teams, build morale, and stay grounded as a leader.

In this episode of RA*Chat, get ready to own move-in weekend! Join Katherine Gallardo, an RA, as she spills the tea on prepping like a pro and nailing those make-or-break first moments with new residents and their families. From managing the chaos to creating instant connections, this episode will transform you from nervous newbie to... Continue Reading →

We're pleased to welcome Ali onto the show for this week's episode! She speaks with Dustin about her journey into this work, and reflections on how best to approach the unique work of housing and residential life marketing. Ali details the importance of effective marketing as a tool to tell stories, build community, and achieve departmental goals.

On this episode of ResEdChat, join our host Noah Montague, and guest Mathew Perry, Resident Director at Miami University of Ohio, to talk about RA recruitment. RA recruitment is one of the biggest endeavors that any Residence Life department goes through. And naturally, there are always things that go well and things that can go better. Noah and Perry discuss tangible ways to better recruit RAs and make the processes more equitable for those in them.

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, host Jas sits down with Thomas Bruick to discuss "unlearning" and mindset change. In student affairs and higher education, unlearning refers to the intentional process of letting go of outdated beliefs, assumptions, or practices to make space for the "new." It involves critical self-reflection, openness to change, and a commitment to slowing down our thoughts to make informed decisions. This process is especially relevant as institutions evolve to better serve and respond to societal shifts with our student populations.