Getting to Know Melissa Flowers

Melissa Flowers didn't begin her college career in the Residential Life Office, but as the saying goes, she got there as fast as she could. She lives in an amazing house (Thomas Residence Hall) with multiple basketball courts, two pools, and three tennis courts. Who could ask for anything more?

How big is your Res Life staff and how do you motivate your team?
I work with 56 amazing student leaders and a team of eight fabulous professional staff members. I motivate them by understanding what drew them to their various positions in the first place and how the skills gained from their positions can help them in the future. Many of them are interested in helping their residents grow and develop, and it is my job to make sure the staff members are learning and growing through this experience.

How did you get involved in collegiate Residential Life as a career?
I studied computer science and Chinese in college and was not an RA, (residential assistant) so it was not the most natural progression. I started out working in ITS at a university in New York after graduation and was intrigued by the Student Affairs folks who got to interact with college students on a regular basis. Res Life was a great start for me to get experience in a lot of different functional areas: crisis management, counseling, conduct, educational programming, etc. I honestly never thought I'd be in it for the long-haul, but after a few months of working with student leaders, I was hooked.

What is your favorite aspect of living on campus?
My nephew always brags that his aunt has a few basketball courts, two pools, and three tennis courts at her house…I've never felt the need to correct him, but I appreciate my proximity to all of it. I am a huge supporter of Trinity athletics, so it is nice to see the Trinity football games from my balcony. The Trinity Market is a quick walk up the hill. TUPD has my back when I get locked out. Facilities Services fixes all of the things my toddlers break. My internet is fast and free. Philo is so great, and you simply cannot beat my commute. You could say I like it here.

Least favorite aspect of living on campus?
Have you heard the Thomas elevator rumors? They are all true.

Who inspires you?
Hands down my husband, James. He graduated from Trinity in 2004 and was an all-American football player. He just received his MBA from UIW this past May -- the same week that he passed the Texas real estate exam. And (most impressively) he cares for our two toddlers all day long while I'm at work. He also just got accepted into a PhD program. I simply do not understand how he does it, but he amazes me every day.

Favorite color?
HEX: #723130 (aka TRINITY Maroon)

What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?
I would like to be Jacob Tingle's social media coordinator. He has a lot of work to do with his Twitter account (@TingleJK) – it is practically dormant. He could use my expertise, and I am up for the challenge. I would also be willing to assist Mary Kay Cooper.

What sound do you love?
The sound of my two children laughing together – it is pure bliss.

The sound you hate?
Fire alarms.

What is your favorite word?
Onomatopoeia

Your least favorite word?
Colonel – I once made a fool of myself reading a passage aloud in fifth grade.

If you were reincarnated as some other plant or animal, what would it be and why?
A tiger. They are beautiful and powerful, but they also seem to have a lot of down time for naps. I am really looking forward to more napping in my next life.