Karl Witt, who just graduated from Loras in December 2009, is the new area coordinator for Beckman and the LMAC. As a student, Witt was a resident adviser for more than three years.
What made you decide to become the area coordinator in Beckman and the LMAC?
I didn’t have a job yet after I graduated in December. Molly Burrows Schumacher (the director of residence life) called me and said the current AC, Matt Saylor, was getting deployed, so the position was open.
How long do you intend on being the AC?
I plan on it for sure until May, but maybe another year. I am looking for a teaching job after this, but, so far, I love every minute of it.
What have you found most challenging?
The fact that it is a live-in position — having people knocking on your door and calling at odd hours of the night. It is not scheduled and not consistent, so you always have to be on call.
How does it feel being an authority figure over people who are your peers?
It’s a challenge. My friends respect me, but it is a fine line because it’s like “I was your friend last night and now I have authority over you.”
If you had to pick one quote you live by, what would you say it is?
Live everyday to its fullest.
What does the job of AC entail?
The AC is in charge of whatever buildings you are assigned to — for me, it’s Beckman and the LMAC. You are also the main supervision over RAs.
What did you need to do to get hired for this position?
Right now, I am considered temporary, so it is a little different than a normal employee. I just gave a resume and didn’t need to apply since they knew me and they knew I was familiar with the position since I was an RA and had an idea of what the AC’s do.
What do you like best about your position so far?
Definitely the student interaction and just being with students on campus.
How does it feel being a recent Loras grad and now coming back to work at your alma mater?
I love all the people here and it’s nice to come back and know everybody and be able to step in with an idea of what the job is about.
