What is a challenge you face doing BIT work?
Navigating buy-in from academic colleagues along with reducing duplication of services and referrals.
What is a successful achievement you have had doing BIT work?
As our cases continue to grow in complexity, in terms of intersectional life domain stressors, we have been working on building campus awareness of our BIT, educating the campus community on indicators that a student may be struggling, and early intervention reporting.
Why did you become a member of NABITA?
I became a member of NABITA to engage with leaders within the field of Case Management and Behavioral Intervention, along with being connected to a community of practice where I am able to ask questions, share resources, and engage in discussions on best practices.
How has having a BIT/CARE team improved the experience of students, staff, and faculty at your institution?
Having a CARE team helps centralize the response to student concern issues. As an institution, it is our responsibility to recognize and support a student but the management of needs has to be centralized and coordinated. A decentralized process leads to duplication of services, chaos, and increases the likelihood the student will not obtain the support they need to be successful.
How has NABITA helped you to be a better professional?
I value the opportunity to be part of a community of other professionals that are doing/have done the work. They provide support, insight, and guidance that I can apply to my role on campus.
What is one way you practice self-care doing such intense work?
Self-care is so important in the work we do. I do my best to create and stick to clear boundaries between personal and work life, while spending as much time as possible outside and getting in as much cuddle time as possible with our new puppy – Willow.
What is one piece of advice you would offer your fellow practitioners?
If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be to remember you are not alone. Lean on your team members when unsure.
How has having a BIT/CARE team improved the experience of students, staff, and faculty at your institution?
The institution has noted the CARE team to be a beacon of hope, in times of uncertainty and/or distress. Faculty and staff have noted that they appreciate a central point of contact for information or advice.
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