Many married couples in the Midwest have their own house, lawn and garage. This is not the case for Northwestern’s resident directors or their wives. But what the life of an RD’s wife lacks in conventionality is made up in unforgettable memories.
“It’s not my job to be involved in the dorm; it’s more of a privilege to be here and be involved with these guys,” said Amanda Kundert, wife of West Hall’s RD.
Although there is no technical job for RD wives, their husbands’ crazy schedules directly affect their own agendas.
“In some ways, every day is different because Kendall’s schedule is different,” said Ashley Stanislav, wife of the North Suites’ RD.
Although each day has its own agenda, one thing stays the same: spending time with students.
“I wish I could tell you I feed homeless people and adopt cats, but I really just hang out with people,” Amanda said.
Although variable schedules keep them busy, there are many great times spent in the residence hall. The Stanislav’s currently have two kids with a baby due in two weeks.
“We have a lot of fun living in the hall,” Ashley said. “Some people think we’re crazy for living here. We’re glad our kids get to grow up with these relationships.”
Ashley isn’t the only one who enjoys living in the North Suites. Mady, daughter of Ashley and Kendall said she does, as well.
“I can play with the boys, sometimes duck-duck goose,” she said.
Living in close proximity with others comes with various ups and downs.
“It was a bit difficult at first, but the more you live in community, the less you care about things,” Amanda said. “The relationships become more important.”
Living in a college dorm as a family can be tough, but Ashley pointed out that she is never lacking for babysitters.
“My kids love living in the dorm,” Ashley said. “They have constant playmates and attention, lots of built-in babysitters.”
Living in the dorms has proven to have many perks.
“In the morning, sometimes they play music,” Amanda said. “I just turn down the TV and enjoy it. It’s been awesome because I don’t know any different. I’m sure if I got married and lived in my own house, this would’ve been a huge change.”
Having married RDs seems to be a win-win for everyone.
“I used to bake mini cupcakes every other week, but that’s kind of dwindled since people are so busy,” Amanda said. “I try out all these crazy Pinterest recipes, and they have been more than willing to help me finish them.”
Although West Hall residents enjoy Amanda’s baking, the North Suites residents get to hang out with Mady and Drew, Ashley and Kendall’s kids.
“I apologize to the North Suites boys that I don’t bake for them like Amanda does, but in return, you get to play with my kids,” Ashley said.
There are many ups and downs to being a part of an RD’s family. Having the opportunity to get to know many people on campus would count as an up for Amanda.
“It’s a really great feeling to walk through campus and not be a stranger,” Amanda said. “It’s awesome that I get to be part of this.”
