Reflecting on my NASPA IV-WE Experience: Candice Sewell

In the fall of 2016, I was awarded a scholarship for the NASPA IV East-West regional conference. During my time at the conference, I gained a lot of insight about the profession and career advancements within the field of Student Affairs. I enjoyed many of the presentations I attended and gained new mentors who are outside of my current institution. This opportunity to attend the conference provided me with the chance to understand and solidify my career goals and an affirming experience in being around others in the profession. I truly enjoyed the keynote speakers at the conference as well and their profound insight on what it is like to be in Student Affairs.

The conference occurred right before I burnt completely out, from all the conversations about the election and what does this mean for our institution. On the drive to the conference I didn’t really know what to expect, I was open to the experience it was going to provide me. As I sat and listened to Dr. Bertice Berry affirm all my identities, I wanted to cry right there on the spot. It had been a long time since I heard someone who spoke so eloquently, and yet was so relatable. I relished in the multiple stories she shared that day, and felt as if I could go on. Student Affairs has a high burnout rate, and this is something I know as a fact. But, when I left the conference I felt rejuvenated and prepared for the long road ahead me. I left the conference feeling like my purpose had been restored, by all the affirming presentations and speakers. It was such an honor and privilege to be in that space. This conference has helped to validate my experiences, solidify my career goals, and to provide a space to network amongst other professionals.

Candice has a unique experience in higher education, her first year she attended Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, returned home to attend a junior college for financial reasons; she graduated in 3 semesters and retuned back to Southern to complete her B.A. in Radio/Tv Broadcasting. Candice Sewell is an Assistant Hall Director at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and a first year grad in the Higher Education Administration- College Student Programming. She is a budding practitioner who wishes to work within a Multicultural Resource Center. She is currently working on a Multicultural Syllabus for her Independent Study Course. The Multicultural Syllabus is for student affairs graduate students and first year professionals to use, to help them become more well versed in multiculturalism. She has also been publishing some of her programming via TrillorNotTrill. Candice has a passion for anything revolving around higher education, black queer studies, black feminist thought, popular culture and of course Beyoncé.