Defense Date

6-16-2026

Graduation Date

Summer 8-7-2026

Availability

Immediate Access

Submission Type

dissertation

Degree Name

PhD

Department

Counselor Education and Supervision (ExCES)

School

School of Education

Committee Chair

Matthew Joseph

Committee Member

Tara Abbott

Committee Member

ZiYoung Kang

Keywords

Resident assistants, wellness, Indivisible Self Model of Wellness, wellness programming, residence life, burnout, compassion fatigue, secondary trauma

Abstract

This mixed-methods pilot study used semi-structured interviews with 15 resident assistants (RAs), complemented by descriptive pre- and post-test data from the Five Factor Wellness Inventory (FFWEL), to explore their lived experiences of participating in a 10-week wellness program grounded in the Indivisible Self Model of Wellness (IS-WEL). The purpose of this study was to examine the program's perceived influence on wellness practices and to explore the feasibility of implementing wellness-focused programming. Using a hermeneutic inquiry approach, the study identified four themes reflecting participants’ experiences throughout the program. Themes highlighted the importance of self-awareness through the IS-WEL model, the value of connection and shared experiences, the balance between RA responsibilities and student life, and the participants’ perceptions of the program’s overall effectiveness. Findings suggest that structured wellness programming may support RAs in developing sustainable self-care practices and greater wellness awareness, while fostering a culture in which wellness is openly discussed and valued within residential life environments. Implications for practice include incorporating wellness education, reflection activities, and wellness check-ins into RA training and supervision to support well-being and professional development. This study also highlights the potential role of wellness-centered interventions in promoting resilience, self-awareness, and holistic wellness among student leaders in higher education settings.

Keywords: Resident assistants, college students, student leaders, wellness, Indivisible Self Model of Wellness, student affairs, higher education, wellness programming, residence life, burnout, compassion fatigue, secondary trauma

Language

English

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