Room Selection & Assignments Updates Room selection was a bit tricky this year. We separated Living-Learning Program (LLP) room selection from our other processes, allowing students in those programs to select first. Over the two weeks of room selection, we had 3,491 students select spaces in the residence halls. Our typical popular spaces were in suites and apartments, which allow a different living experience for our returning students. Though the process functioned similarly to previous years, the return to full occupancy this year allowed all of our returning students to understand campus and their housing options prior to room selection. Students who selected housing were able to cancel their assignment until April 1 with no penalty. Since April 1, we have implemented our new buyout process, eliminating the petition process that students have become familiar with. Students can now be released for a qualifying reason (e.g. withdrawal, study abroad, graduation, etc.), or they can buy out the remainder of their agreement for a set amount. This will allow students who find alternative options to be released without having to go through a lengthy, all-or-nothing process that ended with many students being frustrated about their agreement. We anticipate seeing more requests throughout the summer as student plans change. We also have a new process for students requesting medical accommodations. No longer will students submit medical documentation to Michelle McCubbin for review and assignment. Beginning for Fall 2022, the Accessibility & Disability Service (ADS) will assume responsibility for receiving applications, working with students, and determining which accommodations are reasonable to meet the student’s needs. Students still need to complete a housing application with our office, but will apply for accommodations separately from ADS, the same way they would apply for classroom accommodations. We will continue to run a wait list for returning students in the halls, but are working to offer housing to as many students as we can. We are in the process of receiving preferences and assigning students to vacant spaces as they are available. If students are looking for other housing options in the halls, or want to test the waters regarding what has become available, they will be able to request a room change from June 6–24. After that time, student assignments will be locked in until our room change process begins in September.
Res Life Roundup | Spring 2022 | Vol. 5
5
