Being a Community Learning Advisor (CLA) for Yeh College this year has been a unique experience. It’s given me a chance to connect with students across different years, support my peers, and get a better understanding of Princeton’s residential community.
Connecting Across Class Years
Before becoming a CLA, most of my interactions were with people in my year or major. This role has been a great way to meet students from all over campus— sophomores diving into new opportunities, juniors making the most out of the remaining years of college, and senior students who’ve been through it all. Hearing their stories and perspectives has been a reminder of how diverse and vibrant the Princeton community really is. It’s been especially rewarding to meet new students and learn about their backgrounds, interests, and goals. A lot of the students I work with are also in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, which has made our interactions even more relatable and meaningful. Being able to share advice about navigating tough problem sets, picking classes, or handling the challenges of the major feels like paying it forward.
Getting to know these students—not just as peers, but as people with their own stories and ambitions—has been wholesome and fulfilling in a way I didn’t expect. Whether we’re talking about academics, campus life, or just figuring out where to grab the best late-night snacks, these connections have reminded me why building a supportive community matters so much.
Being a Resource and a Listener
A big part of the job is being there when people need support. Sometimes it’s helping someone navigate a tough course or answering questions about campus resources. Other times, it’s just about listening—because college can get overwhelming, and knowing someone has your back can make a big difference. It’s not always about having the perfect solution; just being available can go a long way.
What I didn’t expect was how much I’d learn in the process. Helping others with their challenges has pushed me to think more creatively and be more patient, even in my own life. Whether it’s figuring out a tricky situation or just staying calm when things don’t go as planned, this role has made me better at problem-solving and more aware of how to support others effectively.
Study Breaks and Small Moments
One of the fun parts of being a CLA is organizing study breaks. Whether it’s snacks, games, or just a chance to hang out, these little events are a nice way to pause and recharge. It’s not about doing anything fancy—it’s about creating space for people to breathe, relax, and connect.
Sometimes, the best moments are the unexpected ones: a late-night conversation in the common room or seeing people bond over a shared love for food at a study break. These small, everyday interactions are what make the role feel meaningful. They remind me that, even in a busy place like Princeton, taking time to relax and connect with others can make all the difference.
Princeton’s residential colleges are designed to make campus feel a little less overwhelming, and being a CLA has shown me how much thought goes into building that sense of community. From the people I work with to the students I’ve met, it’s clear that this network of support isn’t just a nice idea—it really works.
Looking back on this semester, I’m glad I took on the CLA role. It’s helped me feel more connected to the campus and given me a new appreciation for the small, everyday ways we support each other.