What is your routine for the first few hours of your day?
There is a saying that goes like this: “The early bird gets the worm.” I believe the first few hours of the day are usually the most productive, especially in the field of campus housing. But the day would kick off after my morning cup of coffee.
What is the last thing you read, watched, or listened to that changed your perspective?
It was actually an episode of the podcast “On Being” with Krista Tippett and her guest Rick Rubin sharing their wisdom on the episode “Magic, Everyday Mystery, and Getting Creative.” The topic was of much relevance to the notion of creativity we struggle with in the field of campus housing.
What is one piece of advice you wish you had received earlier in your career?
Earlier in my professional career, I wish I knew more about mental burnout. At the beginning of my professional journey, working as live-in staff, I had a hard time switching off from work-related settings. To be honest, since I now supervise live-in staff, we are trying (together) different methods that would allow for proper breaks: office flex-hours, flex days, and division of programming and administrative tasks.
What is your favorite campus dining hall meal?
I enjoy having my morning coffee with a fresh croissant.
What is something that someone has done for you lately for which you were most grateful?
Noticing became a rare thing; I appreciate people who recognize and notice the small things I do. And a simple thank you on a sticky note has always made my day.
What tool does every campus housing pro need to know how to use, and when was the last time you used one?
I am not sure if it’s a tool I am referring to. In my opinion, it’s a process. One-on-one and group check-ins with the supervisees are vital to maintaining the team well-being. As I work with front liners (RAs and RDs), I always try to do at least five-minute check-ins or gather over a cup of coffee outdoors to hear from them and provide guidance to the best of my capacity.
What was your favorite class when you were a student?
It was a cross-university course on the global perspectives following the Arab Spring uprising of 2011. In this course, I learned how such sociopolitical events are perceived by students from a different university across the Pacific. The exchange of ideas and thoughts was like no other.
What hobby would you pursue if time and money were no object?
Horseback riding.
What is your favorite tradition from any campus where you have worked?
The one tradition that remains standing at our residence halls takes place during finals week. We (the office staff) open our door to our residents to pass by and have free bakery, fruits, and coffee before heading out for their exams.
What song do you count on to hype you up to start the day or help you celebrate at the end of a long one?
I am a generalist, so no favorite genre or song, but jazz would always be an option to relax after a long day.
Walid Derhem is the manager for programming and training at The American University in Cairo. Do you want to see yourself or a colleague included in the Snapshot column? Complete the questions on this form or share the link with someone who you think we should get to know better.
