A new program has been brought to campus in regards to residential life and housing, and its success may pave the way for more projects like it in the future.
This project pertains to the coveted Union Hall, on which many set their sights but are turned away due to the high demand. Union Hall is, historically, the first housing slot to fill up on the selection day, making it difficult for freshman, sophomores, and, in some cases, juniors, from acquiring the living space. Through this project’s application process, underclassmen students hold a much higher chance.
As there are five suites and five beds per suite, the project will be deemed a huge success with the participation of 25 students, according to Doreen Long, creator of the program and Director of Residential Life and Housing. The new project requires those who long to live in Union to come up with a theme around which to style their dorm. These groups will also be expected to hold events on campus in regards to their theme, to insure that the new residents are active in the school’s community in a positive manner.
Any groups that are interested in Union and the thematic housing project are required to apply and have an NEC faculty or staff advisor to help them carry out their events on campus. All costs associated with events would be run through Residential Life and Housing, requiring no money come from students’ pockets.
Long said the project was on her major list of things she wants to accomplish at NEC. She hopes that “students find something that they are really passionate about. Something that they are excited about and that they want to share their excitement about,” when brainstorming themes with their friends and group-mates.
All current residents of Union Hall have been made aware of the change and students looking to anchor have been made aware that they would be expected to join a group and participate in the project to keep their housing accommodations.
