How a Good Support System Can Change Everything

At the top of a very tall climbing tower is a student leader wearing a blue helmet and holding onto the rocks securely. — **Cat, your VP of Academics**, scales the 40-foot climbing tower at Camp Olympia.

I still remember on my first day at work, Kyle said “Go get ready for the SSU Staff Retreat,” and honestly, it was the first time I heard the word “Retreat.” I was a little confused, but also excited because I didn’t know what was waiting for us at the Retreat. It turned out to be one of the most wonderful trips I’ve been on.

We got to the campsite at around 3 pm. Everyone was quite tired after the long drive. But as soon as we started to do the Climbing Tower and the Giant Swing Split, I feel like we were re-energized and ready for all the interesting activities over the next two days. One thing about me is that I have Acrophobia (fear of heights). Not too intense, but intense enough to prevent me from trying any rigorous things. However, during the Retreat, I made it through and tried all of those activities that I was afraid of before. I still remember when I was climbing halfway up the tower, I almost gave up and freaked out because of the height. But I heard people’s voices from the ground “Keep going Cat! You will make it! You’re almost there!” Hearing these words really helped me make it to the top. Thinking back, I really don’t know how I could be that brave to overcome my fear of heights. Probably at that moment, the fear of heights was nothing compared to the fear of regret–regret of not even having given it a try.

A dark outdoor photo lit by a bright campfire. The night sky is a dark blue and two student leaders are seen looking at a laptop on the opposite side of the fire. — Sitting around the campfire with SSU friends.

When the sun went down, it was a little chilly outside and time for the campfire as well. I have never had a campfire before, I only saw it on the TV or someone had told me about it before. We were gathered around the fire, dancing and sharing marshmallows. That moment, I feel like it’s not a Staff Retreat anymore, but it’s a trip with friends. There were so many colleagues I didn’t know yet, but then we were sitting together and talking like we’ve all known each other before. It’s amazing, isn’t it?

The day after, we sat together again to discuss the goals for the whole team in this upcoming year. We talked a lot. I’m so grateful that I got a chance to work with so many talented people. I’m grateful because my voice is heard and valued. We share ideas and goals and we are committed to supporting each other.

I remember when we were asked to use one word to describe the working environment we wanted to get involved in at the SSU, there were so many words being used: “Professional,” “Fun,” “Integrity,” “Empathy,” “Collaborative,” were some. …And then Leia said “Family.” Yes. I also love this word. For me, working together is never an easy thing, especially when we come from different countries, have different cultural backgrounds, and possess different personalities. However, I think things would be so much easier if we treat each other as though we are family. We listen to each other, we cheer each other up when we suffer, and we are happy for everyone’s achievements.

The SSU Exec team, six members, sit around a wooden table that has a poster board with writing on it, and lcolourful markers are placed on the table. — Your Exec Team (**Cat**, **Cameron**, **Piya**, **Ritz**, **Sarah**, and **Leia**) planning big things!

We believe that the best #SheridanLife is one where students have access to opportunities, experiences and tools that help them grow and serve their fellow students.

That’s why the Sheridan Student Union is committed to offering our student leaders career development opportunities and experiences that help them grow and serve the needs of our students. To read more about how your student leaders are working together to advocate for the best #SheridanLife, visit thessu.ca/sheridanlife