Mission Statement
"At Campus Nest, my mission is to revolutionize residential experiences in educational institutions worldwide. I am committed to fostering vibrant, purposeful communities where young people thrive. My dedication extends beyond providing accommodation; I strive to create safe, sustainable, environments that inspire growth, connection, and holistic development. Through personalized guidance and collaborative partnerships, I empower institutions to optimize institutions’ residential practices, enabling young individuals to unlock their full potential and shape their future with confidence."
Hi, I’m Sara.
My journey in Residential Life began in the United States, where I immersed myself in the vibrant culture of highly selective Liberal Arts universities. Working and studying in the United States ignited my passion for fostering communities within residential settings. My affinity for residential life only grew stronger during my four years of summer camp in Los Angeles, where I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of intentional communal living.
Upon returning to New Zealand, I seized the opportunity to assume a management position in Residential Life at Otago University. Throughout my career, I've come to understand the pivotal role that the right residential environment plays in the growth and development of young people. It's not just about providing accommodation; it's about creating spaces where young people feel safe, purposeful, and connected.
Furthermore, I find great fulfillment in collaborating with residential institutions to enhance their practices for the benefit of students. Whether it's refining policies or implementing innovative approaches, I'm dedicated to fostering environments that nurture holistic student development.
At Campus Nest, I offer personalized guidance to universities, residential summer camps and boarding schools seeking the ideal residential experience and client environment tailored to their unique needs and aspirations. By working closely with each campus, I ensure that schools maximize their residential experience and allow young people to unlock their full potential.
My Approach
Compared with students who live off campus, students who live in residential spaces on campus show higher GPA scores and graduation rates, increased levels of satisfaction with their university experience, and stronger earning potential post tertiary education. We must then ask ourselves, why should we not invest in this critical area of out-of-the-class learning? When advising institutions on how to improve their residential living, I look at many factors but the goal is simple and always the same - I keep student satisfaction at the centre of the conversation. I always tell my clients to focus on the “S”s in the conversation.
Students
We must always keep students in mind as they are the true clients. The student demographic is quickly changing and needs of the population are changing. Given this, all campuses must rely on data to create spaces that best cater to the students they are housing.
Safety
I like to think of a residential space as a ship - ship that sails students for a brief period and brings the students safely home to their loved ones. It is important to look at the space and ensure that it is safe, that the processes are safe and represent government mandates on student safety.
Sustainability
Sustainability has become a buzz word, but it means more than recycling. Are students involved in the thought of living in a sustainable home? Is the residential space financially sustainable? There are many aspects of sustainability that we can consider when talking.