Coming to a big university such as UT one may seem overwhelmed, but that's why there are Resident Assistants to help you through your collegiate journey. I have been an RA for two years now, and doing so gives me a new outlook on life.

As a freshman, I wasn't afraid to be at this university. I was excited. My RA helped me deal with my excitement. She calmed me down by being my go-to girl on what was going on academically and socially on and around campus.

I even decided to change floors so I could be her my sophomore year. I wanted to have that connection as well.

My connection is a little different. My residents are sophomores, with an occasional junior. They are already bonded through sisterhood being sorority women. In a way my job is easier because my residents already have community.

From screaming fights, roommate conflicts and loud parties to tears of endearment, family illnesses and stalkers lurking around, I have been there for my residents as well as other residents in my residence hall.In another aspect, it's difficult because I realize they don't really need me as much to guide them through different situations. I love my job all the same.

I have come across obstacles that otherwise I would not have dealt with if I weren't an RA. From screaming fights, roommate conflicts and loud parties to tears of endearment, family illnesses and stalkers lurking around, I have been there for my residents as well as other residents in my residence hall. All these things have made me stronger.

Coming in I knew the RA job was not going to be easy. I accepted the challenge ready to take on all that encompassed the duty of being responsible for 30-plus human beings with a staff to back me if need be.

Although I am supposed to be the superior person who makes sure nothing goes wrong and watches over my residents, I treat them as equals. I give respect and all I want back in return is the same.

I would never be that person who lurks around trying to get residents in trouble with authority. I am that RA who warns you upfront of the consequences of all actions, but will leave the decision up to the resident.

Of course some residents try to test your abilities and your authority. I have had a couple who didn't listen no matter what. I don't have any less respect for those residents.

In the end, I will hold each and every individual responsible for what she does and still care about her just as much as before.

I have relationships with my current and past residents that I cherish. Although I am the go-to girl now, I still lean on them when I need it. A bond has formed between me and my residents, as well as me and my staff, which I greatly enjoy.

I wouldn't change this feeling for anything. One thing I will miss most about my experience at UT is the people I met while being an RA.