What to Expect as a Resident Supervisor at New Beginnings – A Home for Mothers

​I think that I was very prepared for being a resident supervisor (RS) at New Beginnings – A Home for Mothers because one of my friends told me about her internship and some of her experiences at New Beginnings. Additionally, one of my classmates told me that she was leaving New Beginnings and that I would be taking her place. She gave me some advice which has stood the test my first few months here. 

​Rule number one is do not pick up a child without permission. Although this is a good rule for everyone everywhere it is difficult to remember when I like to pick up little children and babies and hold them. No matter how much a person likes children it is important not to pick up any child unless handed that child. 

​In addition, she gave advice about being firm to my own guidelines meaning that if I am going to set a side time for me or to spend with the residents that I need to stick to the plan. Once a person deviates then it is difficult to go back to the routine. For example, if a RS offers to take someone grocery shopping one day then the person may expect to go grocery shopping with the same RS. 

​I know that watching the children is not in the job description but it is important to note that children may run into RS apartment any time the door is open especially since the door has to be open while on duty. It is important not to have magnets on the refrigerator door. I learned this the hard way. Thankfully I always got my magnets back. On a serious note, it is important to keep the RS apartment fairly child proof also since a child could come in and grab something and put it in his or her mouth before a RS realizes that he or she is in the apartment. It is a learning process and it is fun along the way.  

Elyse Kipfer was an intern at New Beginnings July through September of 2017 and is now a current Resident Supervisor at New Beginnings. She is a Psychology Major and Communication Minor at Wisconsin Lutheran College. She aspires to be a Christian counselor for victims of sexual violence. Her free time consists spending time with her horse, dog, family, and friends. Furthermore, she enjoys having deep conversations and digging into God’s Word. 

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