DORM – The Other Four-Letter Word
By Jason Gross, Assistant Dean of Student Life, Defiance College
Like fingernails on a blackboard, this word sends shutters up and down the spines of most housing and residence life professionals around the country. A first rate example of this pain was demonstrated at the November 2003 GLACUHO conference by the keynote speaker. During the course of a very upbeat and energetic presentation, the speaker made the cardinal sin and referred to residential living as dorm life. Absolutely priceless was the look on everyone’s face. It was as if we collectively took a giant bite out of a lemon. For the remainder of the presentation and afterwards, I began to ponder how it came to pass this seemingly innocuous word became the most prolific swearword to people like myself.
The word dorm, or dormitory, is rooted in the Latin language as the word dormire. Thank you Father Sanders for all of the free Latin lessons during Global Issues class. As it relates to this particular topic, it simply means a place to sleep. As a visual learner, I associate the images and atmosphere of the film Dead Poet’s Society with “old school” dormitory life on college campuses. This film depicted a very rigid environment devoid of free will and apathy toward student development and presents what I believe to be a pretty strong representation of how things used to be on many of our campuses. Through this depiction, I can readily understand why colleges and universities went in search of another descriptor for campus housing.
Fast forward to the present day. Sleep is one of the least occurring phenomenons in the residence halls of the modern day college campus. Anyone that has had the unique privilege of being a live-in member of a housing staff knows that life does indeed go on after quiet hours begin and visitation ends. Once again, as a visual learner, I associate the sometimes-exaggerated images and atmosphere of the films Road Trip, Old School, Dead Man on Campus, Van Wilder, Son-in-Law and Real Genius with today’s campus living environment. These films affirm, among many other things that life does not cease to exist in modern-day campus housing when the sun goes down. Through these depictions and my own professional experience, I find it hard to believe that a simple change in terminology led to such a significant paradigm shift.
Well, obviously, it didn’t. As Dr. Gregory Blimling illustrates in his writings, the evolution of campus housing and college life in general has been going on for decades. What once was a single-minded approach to teaching and learning has yielded to multi-faceted methodologies, mediums and learning outcomes for today’s college students. Emphasis on co-curricular education and the benefits of a holistic education have elevated the work of student affairs professionals to the point of almost being equals with their faculty counterparts. As a collective body, today’s students are leaving college better prepared and moving into the working world having been taught academic skills in the classroom and life skills beyond the classroom; i.e. the residential setting. For this reason and many others, I find it somewhat absurd to have the reaction that we do towards the use of the word dorm. As long as the residents feel as if their dorm or residence hall is their home away from home, it doesn’t matter what they call it. Why should it matter to us?
From day one of my college experience at Wheeling Jesuit University, I was taught inside and outside of the classroom not to place emphasis on labels, but to look within the person or thing for true meaning and understanding. I have been in residence halls that have the warmth and charm of an intensive care unit and I have been in dorms that feel like the family living room. In our quest to further legitimize our purpose and status to the faculty side of the house, I think we have come to place far too much emphasis on the frivolous and not enough on the basic. Ironically, the theme for the 2003 GLACUHO conference was “Back to Basics” and I couldn’t agree more that it’s time.
About the Author
Jason Gross completed his Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science at Wheeling Jesuit University in 1997 and completed his Masters of Business Administration from Wheeling Jesuit University in 2000. He is entering his 12th year working in Student Affairs and currently serves as the Assistant Dean of Student Life at Defiance College in Defiance, OH. He can be reached via e-mail at jgross@defiance.edu or via phone at 419-783-2563.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Creative Uses of Technology in your Role
Hello all
As you know, I'm trying to find ways to connect with both staff and students in new and innovative ways. I've been researching some of the more popular technologies available, and thought that you all might be able to find some interesting ways to use them in your jobs as RAs/GHDs. Happy reading! :)
Two caveats to using technology: First, make sure you get people's permission before posting pictures or information about them. Second, please be appropriate. While I don't go looking for issues on facebook or anywhere else, if it is brought to my attention, I cannot ignore it. Rule of thumb: If you don't want your mom/grandma to see it/read it, don't post it.
FACEBOOK.
What is it: Social networking site that allows you to connect with people all over the world....most people by now are aware of facebook. ;)
Ways to use it in your job: Create a floor group, create events and invite people to programs, post G-rated pictures of your programs for the floor to see
Cons: Easy to post inappropriate things, not always very private, students may be over-saturated by facebook.
YOUTUBE.
What is it: Website where people can post or watch video clips. Website is seachable and you can leave comments.
Ways to use it in your job: Film a lecture or a speaker and then post for residents, have a video contest about a particular topic (make sure to set some ground rules).
Cons: Easy to get in trouble by posting copyrighted material, not private at all.
GOOGLE APPLICATIONS.
What is it: A family of applications created by Google. Includes Google Calendar, Google Books, Google Scholar, Google Documents, and Google Groups.
Ways to use it in your job: Create a calendar of floor events and share with your residents, advertise via a google group, do a program about interesting ways to find sources for homework, put presentations/information on google documents to share with your residents.
Cons: Not all residents are familiar with these applications.
BLOGS.
What is it: Well, you're reading one, so hopefully you get the idea....
Ways to use it in your job: Floor blog highlighting a new resident every week (make sure to get permission), UF events blog, important academic dates blog.
Cons: Can require quite a time commitment for upkeep
FLICKR/PHOTOBUCKET/ETC.
What is it: Online photo storage and sharing applications.
Ways to use it in your job: Floor pictures, create a floor yearbook or album, door tags, photos for your blog, etc.
Cons: Easy to end up posting things that are not always appropriate.
TWITTER.
What is it: Send out 140-character updates to anyone who follows you; kind of like updating your facebook status. Can use via phone or internet.
Ways to use it in your job: Remind people about programs or important dates, let people know when you're in your room if they have questions.
Cons: Anyone can sign up to follow you (including people you have never met).
If you have any other creative ideas, leave some comments here!
As you know, I'm trying to find ways to connect with both staff and students in new and innovative ways. I've been researching some of the more popular technologies available, and thought that you all might be able to find some interesting ways to use them in your jobs as RAs/GHDs. Happy reading! :)
Two caveats to using technology: First, make sure you get people's permission before posting pictures or information about them. Second, please be appropriate. While I don't go looking for issues on facebook or anywhere else, if it is brought to my attention, I cannot ignore it. Rule of thumb: If you don't want your mom/grandma to see it/read it, don't post it.
FACEBOOK.
What is it: Social networking site that allows you to connect with people all over the world....most people by now are aware of facebook. ;)
Ways to use it in your job: Create a floor group, create events and invite people to programs, post G-rated pictures of your programs for the floor to see
Cons: Easy to post inappropriate things, not always very private, students may be over-saturated by facebook.
YOUTUBE.
What is it: Website where people can post or watch video clips. Website is seachable and you can leave comments.
Ways to use it in your job: Film a lecture or a speaker and then post for residents, have a video contest about a particular topic (make sure to set some ground rules).
Cons: Easy to get in trouble by posting copyrighted material, not private at all.
GOOGLE APPLICATIONS.
What is it: A family of applications created by Google. Includes Google Calendar, Google Books, Google Scholar, Google Documents, and Google Groups.
Ways to use it in your job: Create a calendar of floor events and share with your residents, advertise via a google group, do a program about interesting ways to find sources for homework, put presentations/information on google documents to share with your residents.
Cons: Not all residents are familiar with these applications.
BLOGS.
What is it: Well, you're reading one, so hopefully you get the idea....
Ways to use it in your job: Floor blog highlighting a new resident every week (make sure to get permission), UF events blog, important academic dates blog.
Cons: Can require quite a time commitment for upkeep
FLICKR/PHOTOBUCKET/ETC.
What is it: Online photo storage and sharing applications.
Ways to use it in your job: Floor pictures, create a floor yearbook or album, door tags, photos for your blog, etc.
Cons: Easy to end up posting things that are not always appropriate.
TWITTER.
What is it: Send out 140-character updates to anyone who follows you; kind of like updating your facebook status. Can use via phone or internet.
Ways to use it in your job: Remind people about programs or important dates, let people know when you're in your room if they have questions.
Cons: Anyone can sign up to follow you (including people you have never met).
If you have any other creative ideas, leave some comments here!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Die-Cuts
Hello all --
I am thinking of ordering a couple of new die cuts for the offices. Here are the ones I'm thinking of:
Tree
Umbrella
Arrow
Balloons
Beach Umbrella
Beach Ball
Book
Caption Boxes
Check Mark
Lightning Bolt
Popcorn
Puzzle Piece
If any of these sound good, or you like any others (www.ellisoneducation.com -- its the "prestige" series), let me know via email (jenniferl@housing.ufl.edu). I can probably only order two or three...
I am thinking of ordering a couple of new die cuts for the offices. Here are the ones I'm thinking of:
Tree
Umbrella
Arrow
Balloons
Beach Umbrella
Beach Ball
Book
Caption Boxes
Check Mark
Lightning Bolt
Popcorn
Puzzle Piece
If any of these sound good, or you like any others (www.ellisoneducation.com -- its the "prestige" series), let me know via email (jenniferl@housing.ufl.edu). I can probably only order two or three...
Monday, June 29, 2009
Updates & Upcoming Post
Hello Beaty/Jennings Staff! I know it's been a million years or so since I have posted an update to the blog, but read on and you shall find out why!
This summer has been a busy one in the Beaty/Jennings Area thus far. In Beaty, we are housing conferences, and have had over 400 people come through the building in the three weeks we have been open for conferences. My job this summer with conferences is to kind of act like the "hotel manager:" making sure people get checked in ok, making sure the rooms are clean and look nice, posting important information, and occasionally meeting with a camp group to go over rules and regulations. Despite a small problem with our air conditioning system for a day or two (it's been fixed and is now working fine!!), our camps have gone off without a hitch. The interesting thing about conferences is that many of them check in on the weekends or in the evening, so I have added a lot of hours to my week by helping out with that. The DAs have done a great job, though (including our own Abhyona), and have made my job much easier.
In addition to conferences, Room 204 in Beaty East is open as a show room for Preview families. Most of our Preview sessions have already occurred, and many of the students coming through now already know that they have been assigned to a particular building for Fall. This means that I have met several of your residents (and their parents!) already this summer. Lots of parents and students have questions, particularly about the beds, internet access, safey and how early their students should move in. I also have been getting a lot of questions about how many hours it takes to receive a Red 1 parking decal (answer: 50 credit hours) so I wouldn't be surprised to see many of your students coming in with that many (or close to it!) hours. I, of course, have been saying great things about our staff, how helpful you will all be, and how excited you are to meet your residents in the fall.
Speaking of staff, several of our Fall staff members are around this summer, either working as RAs for Summer B or doing other things. I already mentioned Abyhona is working for us as a DA, but Ashlyn, DeeDee, Darrel, Kat, Ming, Britney, Dom and Cindy are working as RAs on various parts of campus for Summer B. Nef (Beaty East GHD) is working as a GHD for Fletcher, and Rhiannon is around working for preview. I do have one staffing update to share. One of the Jennings GHDs that we hired in spring decided not to take the position, so we have hired Brett Scharf to fill her place. I am very excited to bring Brett on board and I really think he will be a great addition to our staff in terms of experience and energy.
Summer B is going well, although we don't have any students living in Beaty or Jennings over the summer. I am actually supervising Reid Hall for summer B and over the past week we welcomed 140 brand new first year students to campus. Overall, we had nearly 2500 new students move on to campus and start classes today! So you can imagine how busy it has been around here. I have already talked to a few students who will be moving to Beaty or Jennings for the fall and boy are they excited to be here!
Now for a construction update! Beaty 5th and 6th floor is going very well, most of the work is already done and the workers were installing cabinets last week and bringing the fridges in this week. They will probably finish ahead of schedule so there should be no problems with move in or storage.
Jennings is also progressing well....you guys will hardly recognize the East side of the building! The bathrooms are almost done...and they look FANTASTIC! All the tile looks so shiny and new :) Little known fact: we are also replacing the tile on the 3rd & 4th floors of Jennings West so those of you on those floors will have a little something new too. The bathrooms next to the office are also being redone and they look great too. The library is getting an overhaul too with brand-new furniture....I'm so excited for you all to see it! All in all, construction is progressing on schedule, so I'm pretty sure at this point everything will be ready to go by the time you all get here on August 9th.
We are about six weeks away from you all returning for the summer! Please don't hesitate to contact me if there is anything I can do for you!
Watch the blog this week for a couple more posts, including (hopefully) another staff bio as well as some construction pictures. I'm also going to do a post on innovative ways to use technology in your RA position. I'm going on vacation July 3rd-12th, but I plan to post several more things after that before you all come back. Enjoy the rest of your summer, and there is more coming soon!
This summer has been a busy one in the Beaty/Jennings Area thus far. In Beaty, we are housing conferences, and have had over 400 people come through the building in the three weeks we have been open for conferences. My job this summer with conferences is to kind of act like the "hotel manager:" making sure people get checked in ok, making sure the rooms are clean and look nice, posting important information, and occasionally meeting with a camp group to go over rules and regulations. Despite a small problem with our air conditioning system for a day or two (it's been fixed and is now working fine!!), our camps have gone off without a hitch. The interesting thing about conferences is that many of them check in on the weekends or in the evening, so I have added a lot of hours to my week by helping out with that. The DAs have done a great job, though (including our own Abhyona), and have made my job much easier.
In addition to conferences, Room 204 in Beaty East is open as a show room for Preview families. Most of our Preview sessions have already occurred, and many of the students coming through now already know that they have been assigned to a particular building for Fall. This means that I have met several of your residents (and their parents!) already this summer. Lots of parents and students have questions, particularly about the beds, internet access, safey and how early their students should move in. I also have been getting a lot of questions about how many hours it takes to receive a Red 1 parking decal (answer: 50 credit hours) so I wouldn't be surprised to see many of your students coming in with that many (or close to it!) hours. I, of course, have been saying great things about our staff, how helpful you will all be, and how excited you are to meet your residents in the fall.
Speaking of staff, several of our Fall staff members are around this summer, either working as RAs for Summer B or doing other things. I already mentioned Abyhona is working for us as a DA, but Ashlyn, DeeDee, Darrel, Kat, Ming, Britney, Dom and Cindy are working as RAs on various parts of campus for Summer B. Nef (Beaty East GHD) is working as a GHD for Fletcher, and Rhiannon is around working for preview. I do have one staffing update to share. One of the Jennings GHDs that we hired in spring decided not to take the position, so we have hired Brett Scharf to fill her place. I am very excited to bring Brett on board and I really think he will be a great addition to our staff in terms of experience and energy.
Summer B is going well, although we don't have any students living in Beaty or Jennings over the summer. I am actually supervising Reid Hall for summer B and over the past week we welcomed 140 brand new first year students to campus. Overall, we had nearly 2500 new students move on to campus and start classes today! So you can imagine how busy it has been around here. I have already talked to a few students who will be moving to Beaty or Jennings for the fall and boy are they excited to be here!
Now for a construction update! Beaty 5th and 6th floor is going very well, most of the work is already done and the workers were installing cabinets last week and bringing the fridges in this week. They will probably finish ahead of schedule so there should be no problems with move in or storage.
Jennings is also progressing well....you guys will hardly recognize the East side of the building! The bathrooms are almost done...and they look FANTASTIC! All the tile looks so shiny and new :) Little known fact: we are also replacing the tile on the 3rd & 4th floors of Jennings West so those of you on those floors will have a little something new too. The bathrooms next to the office are also being redone and they look great too. The library is getting an overhaul too with brand-new furniture....I'm so excited for you all to see it! All in all, construction is progressing on schedule, so I'm pretty sure at this point everything will be ready to go by the time you all get here on August 9th.
We are about six weeks away from you all returning for the summer! Please don't hesitate to contact me if there is anything I can do for you!
Watch the blog this week for a couple more posts, including (hopefully) another staff bio as well as some construction pictures. I'm also going to do a post on innovative ways to use technology in your RA position. I'm going on vacation July 3rd-12th, but I plan to post several more things after that before you all come back. Enjoy the rest of your summer, and there is more coming soon!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Get-to-Know: Nefertiti Walker, Beaty East GHD
I don't have a picture of Nefertiti (goes by Nef) yet, but here is some information nonetheless! Enjoy!
Short Biography: My name is Nefertiti Walker. I am a second year PhD student in the sport management department. I received my undergraduate degree in sport management from Stetson University and my MBA from Stetson University as well. I played collegiate basketball at Georgia Tech before transferring to Stetson University where I finished my career. I have two little brothers, one of which is moderately mentally disabled, but is the joy of my life and my little wingman when I visit home. My family all lives in Atlanta, GA where I grew up. I LOVE sports and LOVE to workout, especially with others!
A day in my life looks like: Waking up sometime before 7am, breakfast, reading journal articles, going to my academic office (Florida Gym 206E) from about 9am until 4pm. While at my academic office I have classes that I go to, writing and reading, and other stuff related to my studies. I usually get home about 4pm to watch Oprah (I LOVE Oprah!!!) and workout until 6:30 or so. So as you can see I am already super busy and this schedule doesn’t even include housing duties!!!
TV shows I watch: OPRAH!! , Greys Anatomy, any sports, anything on Food Network, Wheel of Fortune, and my favorite show ever… Biggest Loser…oh yeah and now I am hooked on the Goode Family.
On my Ipod/radio right now: Everything from Jamie Foxx to Nelly Furtado, Papa Roach, Lily Allen, Lady Gaga, Gym Class Heroes, Green Day, Fall Out Boy, Flo Rida, Pepper, Common, Old school Biggie smalls…….I listen to it all!
I can’t live without my…: IPhone
My Myers-Briggs Type/True Colors color: ENTJ…..i think?
What I really like about my job: I love working with people!!!
Biggest pet peeve: Dishonest people
One thing about me that I’m proud of: Being such a family person and being a good friend.
If I didn’t have this job, I would be: Broke, poor and lonely without all of the friends I know I will make from this job :- (
Short Biography: My name is Nefertiti Walker. I am a second year PhD student in the sport management department. I received my undergraduate degree in sport management from Stetson University and my MBA from Stetson University as well. I played collegiate basketball at Georgia Tech before transferring to Stetson University where I finished my career. I have two little brothers, one of which is moderately mentally disabled, but is the joy of my life and my little wingman when I visit home. My family all lives in Atlanta, GA where I grew up. I LOVE sports and LOVE to workout, especially with others!
A day in my life looks like: Waking up sometime before 7am, breakfast, reading journal articles, going to my academic office (Florida Gym 206E) from about 9am until 4pm. While at my academic office I have classes that I go to, writing and reading, and other stuff related to my studies. I usually get home about 4pm to watch Oprah (I LOVE Oprah!!!) and workout until 6:30 or so. So as you can see I am already super busy and this schedule doesn’t even include housing duties!!!
TV shows I watch: OPRAH!! , Greys Anatomy, any sports, anything on Food Network, Wheel of Fortune, and my favorite show ever… Biggest Loser…oh yeah and now I am hooked on the Goode Family.
On my Ipod/radio right now: Everything from Jamie Foxx to Nelly Furtado, Papa Roach, Lily Allen, Lady Gaga, Gym Class Heroes, Green Day, Fall Out Boy, Flo Rida, Pepper, Common, Old school Biggie smalls…….I listen to it all!
I can’t live without my…: IPhone
My Myers-Briggs Type/True Colors color: ENTJ…..i think?
What I really like about my job: I love working with people!!!
Biggest pet peeve: Dishonest people
One thing about me that I’m proud of: Being such a family person and being a good friend.
If I didn’t have this job, I would be: Broke, poor and lonely without all of the friends I know I will make from this job :- (
Monday, June 1, 2009
I'm Back!
Hello all!
Just a quick note to let you all know that I was on vacation last week, and will resume posting to the blog after I get a little caught up. Watch for another construction update this week, as well as another get-to-know, and some interesting information about Gainesville. Hope you all had a great week!
Just a quick note to let you all know that I was on vacation last week, and will resume posting to the blog after I get a little caught up. Watch for another construction update this week, as well as another get-to-know, and some interesting information about Gainesville. Hope you all had a great week!
Friday, May 15, 2009
Construction Updates!
As you may know, we are doing two major construction projects in the Beaty/Jennings Area this summer.
Our first project is the renovation of the 5th & 6th floors of Beaty West. We have been doing approximately two floors per summer for several years, starting in Beaty East and then continuing to Beaty West. We have only the 2nd-4th floors of Beaty West left to complete after this summer. This renovation project includes remodeling of the kitchen, living and bedroom areas in each Beaty Apartment. Currently, most of the major demolition is complete, as seen in the pictures below.
The Jennings Renovation is a little more in depth. We are completely renovating the bathrooms on the East side of the building, as well as putting in new tile and windows. WE are also renovating the Jennings library, including new carpet and furniture. Currently, we are in the process of completing the demolition of the Jennings bathrooms:
Watch for more updates as the summer progresses!
Our first project is the renovation of the 5th & 6th floors of Beaty West. We have been doing approximately two floors per summer for several years, starting in Beaty East and then continuing to Beaty West. We have only the 2nd-4th floors of Beaty West left to complete after this summer. This renovation project includes remodeling of the kitchen, living and bedroom areas in each Beaty Apartment. Currently, most of the major demolition is complete, as seen in the pictures below.
The Jennings Renovation is a little more in depth. We are completely renovating the bathrooms on the East side of the building, as well as putting in new tile and windows. WE are also renovating the Jennings library, including new carpet and furniture. Currently, we are in the process of completing the demolition of the Jennings bathrooms:
Watch for more updates as the summer progresses!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Beaty Photo Tour, Part Two
We will now resume our photo tour of Beaty. Please note, these are pictures from a student apartment -- GHD apartments look quite different.
Upon entering a Beaty apartment, you will find yourself in the living room/kitchen. Each apartment comes equipped with a full-sized refrigerator, table and chairs, oven, sink, cupboard space, shelf space and two built in desks. (These photos were taken in our tour room; all "extras" have been furnished as examples by the bookstore).
Each Beaty Apartment also has a bathroom containing a sink, toilet and shower/tub. Our Building Services staff does clean the Beaty bathrooms on a weekly basis, as long as the students clear up their personal belongings before cleaning time.
There are two bedrooms in each Beaty apartment. Each bedroom holds two students (except for RAs, who get a bedroom to themselves). Each bedroom has a built-in closet, two bunk-able beds, and a built in desk. Each bedroom also has two internet connections and one cable TV connection. Some of the bedrooms feature fantastic views (on the higher floors, you can see the football stadium)!
Well, that's a good look at Beaty! Next post: construction updates!
Upon entering a Beaty apartment, you will find yourself in the living room/kitchen. Each apartment comes equipped with a full-sized refrigerator, table and chairs, oven, sink, cupboard space, shelf space and two built in desks. (These photos were taken in our tour room; all "extras" have been furnished as examples by the bookstore).
Each Beaty Apartment also has a bathroom containing a sink, toilet and shower/tub. Our Building Services staff does clean the Beaty bathrooms on a weekly basis, as long as the students clear up their personal belongings before cleaning time.
There are two bedrooms in each Beaty apartment. Each bedroom holds two students (except for RAs, who get a bedroom to themselves). Each bedroom has a built-in closet, two bunk-able beds, and a built in desk. Each bedroom also has two internet connections and one cable TV connection. Some of the bedrooms feature fantastic views (on the higher floors, you can see the football stadium)!
Well, that's a good look at Beaty! Next post: construction updates!
Friday, May 8, 2009
Beaty Towers Photo Tour: Part One
Hello all! I hope you are enjoying your summer. Today I'm going to begin a photo tour of the Beaty Area. I realize that many of you have visited or even lived in Beaty, but this could be a nice refresher. Plus, we do have some folks who have very limited experience with Beaty. Today, we will focus on the Beaty Commons and some of the shared facilities; tomorrow we will take a look at an apartment.
Our journey begins in the Beaty Commons.
The Beaty Commons is a small building that is separate from both of the towers. It serves as the "hub" for activity in the building and contains many things. It is open for students to use 24 hours a day. This is a picture of the desk and lobby area. You can see the student mailboxes along the wall in the back.
This is the inside of the Beaty Desk. Students come to the desk to pick up packages, ask questions, get loaner keys, borrow vacuum equipment, and so on. As a staff member, you will work some hours per week at the desk, plus you come here to check your RA mailbox and so on.
Also behind the desk is an area that RAs can use to work on bulletin boards, door tags, and publicity for programs. We have banner paper, colored paper, construction paper, die-cut machines, markers and paint available for staff and Area Government officers to use.
Beaty Commons is also a great place for residents to come and hang out. This is the Beaty TV room. Students are free to hang out here at any time and sometimes this space is used for programming.
There is also a Rec Room available for students to use. There are pool tables, ping pong tables, air hockey and foosball. There is also an ice machine. Area Government Card holders can borrow equipment from the front desk.
Of course, students need to study too. Here is the Beaty Library, a quiet space where students can study. Wireless access is available in this space.
One of the nice things about living in Beaty is the convenience of Beaty Market, a small convenience store located in the Beaty Commons. It is open Summer B, Fall and Spring and keeps very late hours so it's great for a snack or study break. Many things are for sale in the Beaty Market, including prepared food, drinks, household necessities, and so on.
The two GHD offices are also located in Beaty Commons.
Moving into the Towers:
(Sorry for the dark-ish picture!) This is the lobby of the East Tower. Each tower has a lobby with two elevators and a couple of bulletin boards. Students need to use their entry card to gain access to the lobby and also to call the elevator. Little known fact: each lobby area also has a security camera.
Each tower has two elevators. The elevators are available 24/7 for student use. Students use entry cards to call the elevator but then can get off on any floor. Because there are lots of students in Beaty, students on the 2nd or 3rd floor may find it easier to use the stairs. There are no student rooms on the 1st floor of either tower.
Finally, this is the laundry facility. There are several washers and dryers. It costs 1.25 to wash and 1.25 to dry; machines take quarters or the Gator 1 vending cards. You must use your entry card to enter the laundry room.
Stay tuned....next time, we will explore a Beaty student apartment!
Our journey begins in the Beaty Commons.
The Beaty Commons is a small building that is separate from both of the towers. It serves as the "hub" for activity in the building and contains many things. It is open for students to use 24 hours a day. This is a picture of the desk and lobby area. You can see the student mailboxes along the wall in the back.
This is the inside of the Beaty Desk. Students come to the desk to pick up packages, ask questions, get loaner keys, borrow vacuum equipment, and so on. As a staff member, you will work some hours per week at the desk, plus you come here to check your RA mailbox and so on.
Also behind the desk is an area that RAs can use to work on bulletin boards, door tags, and publicity for programs. We have banner paper, colored paper, construction paper, die-cut machines, markers and paint available for staff and Area Government officers to use.
Beaty Commons is also a great place for residents to come and hang out. This is the Beaty TV room. Students are free to hang out here at any time and sometimes this space is used for programming.
There is also a Rec Room available for students to use. There are pool tables, ping pong tables, air hockey and foosball. There is also an ice machine. Area Government Card holders can borrow equipment from the front desk.
Of course, students need to study too. Here is the Beaty Library, a quiet space where students can study. Wireless access is available in this space.
One of the nice things about living in Beaty is the convenience of Beaty Market, a small convenience store located in the Beaty Commons. It is open Summer B, Fall and Spring and keeps very late hours so it's great for a snack or study break. Many things are for sale in the Beaty Market, including prepared food, drinks, household necessities, and so on.
The two GHD offices are also located in Beaty Commons.
Moving into the Towers:
(Sorry for the dark-ish picture!) This is the lobby of the East Tower. Each tower has a lobby with two elevators and a couple of bulletin boards. Students need to use their entry card to gain access to the lobby and also to call the elevator. Little known fact: each lobby area also has a security camera.
Each tower has two elevators. The elevators are available 24/7 for student use. Students use entry cards to call the elevator but then can get off on any floor. Because there are lots of students in Beaty, students on the 2nd or 3rd floor may find it easier to use the stairs. There are no student rooms on the 1st floor of either tower.
Finally, this is the laundry facility. There are several washers and dryers. It costs 1.25 to wash and 1.25 to dry; machines take quarters or the Gator 1 vending cards. You must use your entry card to enter the laundry room.
Stay tuned....next time, we will explore a Beaty student apartment!
Monday, May 4, 2009
Why Are We Here, Part Two
I am back! The blog took a brief hiatus while we were closing down buildings for the summer. But, never fear…here is the second installment of Residence Hall history, this time with a focus on the facilities at the University of Florida.
Note: I have heavily relied on A History of University of Florida Residence Facilities, 2nd Edition by Sharon Blansett for this section.
The University of Florida has had housing facilities for over 100 years. The first building, Buckman Hall (Murphree Area), opened in 1906 and was named for Henry H. Buckman, a member of the Florida legislature. Mr. Buckman was also the author of the Buckman Act which consolidated all of the institutions of higher education in the state of Florida into three state Universities: The University of Florida (men), Florida State College for Women (now Florida State University) and Florida A&M University.
Thomas Hall (Murphree Area) also opened in 1906, and is named after Major William Reuben Thomas, the mayor of Gainesville who helped donate land to UF. Both Thomas and Buckman Halls were designed to be residence facilities, but housed the entire University operation for several years. In addition to student rooms, these buildings also included classrooms, laboratories, administrative offices, a library, dining room, gym, a kitchen, and many other things. When it opened, students paid $2.50/month in rent. Both Thomas and Buckman Halls have undergone extensive renovations since they were opened, but remain non air-conditioned facilities. Both facilities now house students of both genders.
Sledd Hall (Murphree Area) opened in 1929 and is named after Andrew Sledd, the first president of UF. It was called “New Dormitory” for nearly ten years before being dedicated in 1939. Dean of Students Benjamin Tolbert created a staffing system for the buildings. Each section had a staff member called a “monitor;” the president of the student body was “head monitor.” Neither position was paid. Fletcher Hall and Murphree Hall (Murphree Area) were also opened and dedicated in 1939. The linking of Fletcher, Sledd & Thomas Halls forms the shape of “UF,” easily visible from the air. Although all these buildings were designed to house single male students, after WWII, Murphree Hall also housed married couples and the first-ever (at UF) floor of female students. Sledd, Fletcher, and Murphree Halls have all been renovated, have air-conditioning, and are now co-ed.
Mallory Hall, Reid Hall & Yulee Hall (Yulee Area) all opened in 1950 to house the new female students now being admitted to the University of Florida. Interestingly, the original location for these buildings was deemed “unsuitable” because the female students would have to walk a mile past the athletic fields and men’s residence halls to get to the library and classroom buildings. The current location of these buildings was the second choice. The construction of these three buildings marked a change in architectural style, from the collegiate gothic style of the Murphree Area to a more modern style of building. All buildings have been renovated and now have air conditioning. Mallory Hall was the last building on campus to go co-ed, which it did in 2004.
Tolbert Hall, Weaver Hall, Riker Hall and North Hall (Tolbert Area) were also opened in 1950. Tolbert Hall was named after Benjamin Tolbert, the first UF Dean of Students. All halls were originally designed to accommodate male students. All are now air-conditioned and are co-ed by floor.
Broward Hall (Broward Area) opened in 1954 and was named for Annie Douglass Broward, the wife of Governor Napoleon Bonaparte Broward of Florida. It was built to house women but went co-ed in 1972. Throughout the 1970s, a low-power, student-run radio station was located in the basement of Broward Hall. The broadcast signal was run through the building’s electrical system so only the residents of the hall could hear it (and no license was needed). Students were able to volunteer for these shifts and got experience broadcasting over the air. The Broward Basement also used to house a dining facility. Broward has been renovated to include air conditioning.
Rawlings Hall (Broward Area) is dedicated to the memory of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, the Florida author who wrote about the Florida backwoods country in her novels. At her death, she left her estate, library and manuscripts to the university. Originally, each section of Rawlings Hall was also named after prominent Florida women, but these designations are no longer used. Although Rawlings was designed to house women, it is now co-ed and was converted to an air-conditioned facility in 1993.
Corry Village (Graduate & Family Housing) opened in 1959 to house veterans and their families after WWII. It currently houses married students, students with children, and graduate students.
Graham Hall (Graham Area), East Hall (Tolbert Area), Simpson Hall (Graham Area), Trusler Hall (Graham Area), and Jennings Hall (Jennings Area) all opened in 1961 to house the growing number of students attending the University of Florida. Graham Hall, East Hall, Trusler Hall, and Simpson Hall were all built to house men, while Jennings was built to house women. Simpson Hall was the first residence facility to be permanently designated co-ed, although all five buildings are now co-ed. East Hall also housed the first Honor Hall. Jennings Hall was described as being “contemporary, with window walls which overlook a wooded landscape…palms and foliage provide a dramatic setting.” All five buildings are now air-conditioned.
Diamond Village (Graduate & Family Housing) opened in 1965 and has housed married students, students with families, and graduate students since it opened.
Beaty Towers (Beaty Area) is named for Robert Calder Beaty, UF’s first Dean of Student Personnel. It opened in 1967 as the “Twin Towers,” Tower A and Tower B (now East Tower and West Tower). Originally, Tower A accommodated women while Tower B housed men. Only upper division and graduate students were assigned to the facility until 1982, when it became available to all students. Beaty Towers is an architectural anomaly, not only at UF but in Gainesville. It was considered very innovative when constructed because of its suite-style design. It was the first residence facility at UF to have central air conditioning. Beaty Towers now consists of 200 apartments, each housing four students.
Maguire Village (Graduate & Family Housing) opened in 1972 and houses married students, students with families and graduate students. University Village South, aka UVS and Tanglewood Village, opened in 1973 for the same purpose.
Keys Residential Complex (Keys Area) opened in 1991 but has yet to be dedicated to an individual. In keeping with tradition, functional or other descriptive names are given to buildings until they are dedicated. Keys has had four different names: 1991 Residence Facility, New Residence Facility, Apartment Residence Facility, and its current name. Each house or building is named after a different Florida island (Key Largo, Long Key, etc). Keys was built on the former site of Flavet Village, which housed veterans and their families. The innovative apartment-style design of Keys has been duplicated at other universities, and even here at UF. The facility was designed with upper-division students in mind, providing a shared kitchen, shared bathroom and private bedroom for each student in a four-person apartment. All apartments have central air. The facility is co-ed by apartment.
Springs Residential Complex (Springs Area) opened in 1995 and is still awaiting dedication. It was built to help with the reassignment of athletes to residence facilities when Yon Hall was closed. Currently, Springs houses up to 25% athletes. The rooms are suite-style with shared bath, have central air, and are co-ed by suite.
Lakeside Residential Complex (Lakeside Area) opened in 2000 and is still awaiting dedication. Modeled after the Keys, each apartment at Lakeside has four private bedrooms, a living room, two baths and a kitchen. All are centrally air-conditioned and the facility is co-ed by apartment.
Honors Residential College at Hume Hall (Hume Area) replaced the original Hume Hall and opened in 2002. The complex includes two residential buildings, a commons building, classrooms, faculty offices, space for study, an activity room, and more. The suite-style rooms with baths surround a common lounge and kitchen. Students are invited to live in Honors Housing through acceptance to the UF Honors program. Hume is air-conditioned and co-ed.
Wow! All told, UF houses 7555 students in single-student housing and has 980 apartments for graduate students and students with families. Altogether, we are one of the largest housing operations in the United States. Stay tuned, as we will next embark on a virtual tour of Beaty Towers and Jennings Hall!
Note: I have heavily relied on A History of University of Florida Residence Facilities, 2nd Edition by Sharon Blansett for this section.
The University of Florida has had housing facilities for over 100 years. The first building, Buckman Hall (Murphree Area), opened in 1906 and was named for Henry H. Buckman, a member of the Florida legislature. Mr. Buckman was also the author of the Buckman Act which consolidated all of the institutions of higher education in the state of Florida into three state Universities: The University of Florida (men), Florida State College for Women (now Florida State University) and Florida A&M University.
Thomas Hall (Murphree Area) also opened in 1906, and is named after Major William Reuben Thomas, the mayor of Gainesville who helped donate land to UF. Both Thomas and Buckman Halls were designed to be residence facilities, but housed the entire University operation for several years. In addition to student rooms, these buildings also included classrooms, laboratories, administrative offices, a library, dining room, gym, a kitchen, and many other things. When it opened, students paid $2.50/month in rent. Both Thomas and Buckman Halls have undergone extensive renovations since they were opened, but remain non air-conditioned facilities. Both facilities now house students of both genders.
Sledd Hall (Murphree Area) opened in 1929 and is named after Andrew Sledd, the first president of UF. It was called “New Dormitory” for nearly ten years before being dedicated in 1939. Dean of Students Benjamin Tolbert created a staffing system for the buildings. Each section had a staff member called a “monitor;” the president of the student body was “head monitor.” Neither position was paid. Fletcher Hall and Murphree Hall (Murphree Area) were also opened and dedicated in 1939. The linking of Fletcher, Sledd & Thomas Halls forms the shape of “UF,” easily visible from the air. Although all these buildings were designed to house single male students, after WWII, Murphree Hall also housed married couples and the first-ever (at UF) floor of female students. Sledd, Fletcher, and Murphree Halls have all been renovated, have air-conditioning, and are now co-ed.
Mallory Hall, Reid Hall & Yulee Hall (Yulee Area) all opened in 1950 to house the new female students now being admitted to the University of Florida. Interestingly, the original location for these buildings was deemed “unsuitable” because the female students would have to walk a mile past the athletic fields and men’s residence halls to get to the library and classroom buildings. The current location of these buildings was the second choice. The construction of these three buildings marked a change in architectural style, from the collegiate gothic style of the Murphree Area to a more modern style of building. All buildings have been renovated and now have air conditioning. Mallory Hall was the last building on campus to go co-ed, which it did in 2004.
Tolbert Hall, Weaver Hall, Riker Hall and North Hall (Tolbert Area) were also opened in 1950. Tolbert Hall was named after Benjamin Tolbert, the first UF Dean of Students. All halls were originally designed to accommodate male students. All are now air-conditioned and are co-ed by floor.
Broward Hall (Broward Area) opened in 1954 and was named for Annie Douglass Broward, the wife of Governor Napoleon Bonaparte Broward of Florida. It was built to house women but went co-ed in 1972. Throughout the 1970s, a low-power, student-run radio station was located in the basement of Broward Hall. The broadcast signal was run through the building’s electrical system so only the residents of the hall could hear it (and no license was needed). Students were able to volunteer for these shifts and got experience broadcasting over the air. The Broward Basement also used to house a dining facility. Broward has been renovated to include air conditioning.
Rawlings Hall (Broward Area) is dedicated to the memory of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, the Florida author who wrote about the Florida backwoods country in her novels. At her death, she left her estate, library and manuscripts to the university. Originally, each section of Rawlings Hall was also named after prominent Florida women, but these designations are no longer used. Although Rawlings was designed to house women, it is now co-ed and was converted to an air-conditioned facility in 1993.
Corry Village (Graduate & Family Housing) opened in 1959 to house veterans and their families after WWII. It currently houses married students, students with children, and graduate students.
Graham Hall (Graham Area), East Hall (Tolbert Area), Simpson Hall (Graham Area), Trusler Hall (Graham Area), and Jennings Hall (Jennings Area) all opened in 1961 to house the growing number of students attending the University of Florida. Graham Hall, East Hall, Trusler Hall, and Simpson Hall were all built to house men, while Jennings was built to house women. Simpson Hall was the first residence facility to be permanently designated co-ed, although all five buildings are now co-ed. East Hall also housed the first Honor Hall. Jennings Hall was described as being “contemporary, with window walls which overlook a wooded landscape…palms and foliage provide a dramatic setting.” All five buildings are now air-conditioned.
Diamond Village (Graduate & Family Housing) opened in 1965 and has housed married students, students with families, and graduate students since it opened.
Beaty Towers (Beaty Area) is named for Robert Calder Beaty, UF’s first Dean of Student Personnel. It opened in 1967 as the “Twin Towers,” Tower A and Tower B (now East Tower and West Tower). Originally, Tower A accommodated women while Tower B housed men. Only upper division and graduate students were assigned to the facility until 1982, when it became available to all students. Beaty Towers is an architectural anomaly, not only at UF but in Gainesville. It was considered very innovative when constructed because of its suite-style design. It was the first residence facility at UF to have central air conditioning. Beaty Towers now consists of 200 apartments, each housing four students.
Maguire Village (Graduate & Family Housing) opened in 1972 and houses married students, students with families and graduate students. University Village South, aka UVS and Tanglewood Village, opened in 1973 for the same purpose.
Keys Residential Complex (Keys Area) opened in 1991 but has yet to be dedicated to an individual. In keeping with tradition, functional or other descriptive names are given to buildings until they are dedicated. Keys has had four different names: 1991 Residence Facility, New Residence Facility, Apartment Residence Facility, and its current name. Each house or building is named after a different Florida island (Key Largo, Long Key, etc). Keys was built on the former site of Flavet Village, which housed veterans and their families. The innovative apartment-style design of Keys has been duplicated at other universities, and even here at UF. The facility was designed with upper-division students in mind, providing a shared kitchen, shared bathroom and private bedroom for each student in a four-person apartment. All apartments have central air. The facility is co-ed by apartment.
Springs Residential Complex (Springs Area) opened in 1995 and is still awaiting dedication. It was built to help with the reassignment of athletes to residence facilities when Yon Hall was closed. Currently, Springs houses up to 25% athletes. The rooms are suite-style with shared bath, have central air, and are co-ed by suite.
Lakeside Residential Complex (Lakeside Area) opened in 2000 and is still awaiting dedication. Modeled after the Keys, each apartment at Lakeside has four private bedrooms, a living room, two baths and a kitchen. All are centrally air-conditioned and the facility is co-ed by apartment.
Honors Residential College at Hume Hall (Hume Area) replaced the original Hume Hall and opened in 2002. The complex includes two residential buildings, a commons building, classrooms, faculty offices, space for study, an activity room, and more. The suite-style rooms with baths surround a common lounge and kitchen. Students are invited to live in Honors Housing through acceptance to the UF Honors program. Hume is air-conditioned and co-ed.
Wow! All told, UF houses 7555 students in single-student housing and has 980 apartments for graduate students and students with families. Altogether, we are one of the largest housing operations in the United States. Stay tuned, as we will next embark on a virtual tour of Beaty Towers and Jennings Hall!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Ever Wonder Why We're Here? Part One...
Hello again! I thought today I would start a two-part series about the history of Residence Halls (I am, after all, a history major and a nerd). Today's article will focus on Residence Hall history in general; tomorrow we will look at this history of Residence Halls on UF's campus, particularly Beaty & Jennings. So read on! (Hey, this might come in handy someday :) )
European Beginnings. From the beginning, the great Universities of Europe (the Sorbonne in Paris, Oxford and Cambridge in England, were centers of learning that attracted people from all over Europe. Travel between places was difficult and as early as the 12th century, students and faculty alike were asking for University housing to be built. At this time, existing establishments were converted to student housing rather than separate facilities being built. The first student houses, called hospices, were "simple affairs, consisting of 18 beds reserved for students....[they] were subject to no special regulations or supervision beyond those imposed on ordinary lodgers." (Lucas, Christopher: The History of Higher Education, p. 66) As this movement progressed, students began to see the advantages of living together in groups: rents were controlled, they could live with other students who had similar mindsets and schedules, and they always had someone to eat with. In turn, University officials appreciated the chance to keep a watchful eye on their sometimes troublesome charges. Strict rules were often enforced. For example, at the Sorbonne, "if a student attacks, knocks down, or severly beats one of the students, he has to pay on sester of wine to his fellows, and this wine ought to be of a better to best quality." (Lucas, 66).
In Oxford and Cambridge, the idea of collegial living was taken one step further. Students living in simpled dormitories eveolved those living spaces over time into sometimes elaborate institutions, each with its own traditions, history, rights and priveleges. Eventually, the older students living in these houses began to tutor and lecture the younger students; often, outside instruction was dispensed with completely. This became the model for the residential college, a place of both living and learning.
Early American Institutions. The first institutions of higher education in the colonies (and later the United States) were modeled, naturally, after the great European universities -- more specifically Oxford and Cambridge. The tendency at these early instiutions (Harvard, for example) was to "house students together in a residential dormitory...the aim was to foster among all students a common social, moral and intellectual life" (Lucas, 111). Rules were strict and punishments could be severe. From the early 1700s on, rapid expansion and overcrowding lead to more serious incidents. Typical incidents of the day included drunkenness, debauchery, violent assaults, and gambling. In one memorable incident, 22 Harvard students were expelled in 1728 for stealing and eating a local farmer's geese. As the United States expanded westward, so did its colleges, eventually choosing to build universities in the "ideal bucolic setting" (small towns in the country) instead of the large and dirty cities. The higher concentration of young people in these towns made university officials even more determined to control student behavior and student life and "student dormitories were viewed as a means ideally suited to that end" (Lucas, 126). Frustrated by the strict regimen, students began organizing into groups -- the beginnings of student orgs & clubs.
Student Services Arises. Throughout the first half of the 20th century, increasing attention was paid to student's extracurricular life. By this time, "academic leaders became persuaded that athletics, social clubs, Greek-letter societies, campus newspapers and student magazines were evolving without benefit of adequate coordination and supervision" (Lucas, 203). It was seen that non-academic activities carried great benefit for the students and for the institutions. Out of this idea came the notion that on-campus housing facilities needed to be renovated, expanded and placed under close supervision. Deans of Men and Deans of Women began to appear on the scene, as well as support staff charged with overseeing dormitories.
Rapid Changes. The next major change to Campus Housing came in the 1940s after the close of World War II. The Serviceman's Readjustment Act (also known as the GI Bill) provided funding for veterans to go to college, and go they did. Enrollments swelled all over the United States, and not only were vets coming to campus but they were bringing their families with them. Universities had to build (quickly!) spaces for current students, new students, and families of the students. The building boom continued throughout the 50s, 60s and early 70s. Many of the high-rise type facilities on campuses around the United States were built during this time to maximize the number of students that could fit into a small area of land. During this time, buildings were increasingly staffed by students in addition to professionals. The job of the Resident Assistant was really to enforce policy and ensure that things ran smoothly. In the 80s and 90s, the idea of residence halls as communities of learning (rather than just a place to live) really came back into the forefront as studies began to show that students who lived on campus were more likely to be successful students and graduate on time. Student staff were given more of a focus on developing a community rather than just enforcing policy.
"Dorm" vs. "Residence Hall" If you hang around Residence Life professionals long enough, you will notice that many of us do not use the term "dorm." "Dorm" is short for "dormitory" and comes from the Latin "dormire" which means "to sleep." To us, the places our students live are much much more than just a place to lay your head. If our buildings were just "dorms," they would be a room and a shower and a place for students to store things. But we believe that we provide much more than that -- we give students an experience, a place to learn and grow, a place to make new friends, a place to find themselves. We provide support, assistance, and resources to our students. The words carry a lot of weight for many in our profession. "Dorms" are institutional, uncaring and unfeeling; "Residence Halls" are community-focused, warm and most importantly, home.
European Beginnings. From the beginning, the great Universities of Europe (the Sorbonne in Paris, Oxford and Cambridge in England, were centers of learning that attracted people from all over Europe. Travel between places was difficult and as early as the 12th century, students and faculty alike were asking for University housing to be built. At this time, existing establishments were converted to student housing rather than separate facilities being built. The first student houses, called hospices, were "simple affairs, consisting of 18 beds reserved for students....[they] were subject to no special regulations or supervision beyond those imposed on ordinary lodgers." (Lucas, Christopher: The History of Higher Education, p. 66) As this movement progressed, students began to see the advantages of living together in groups: rents were controlled, they could live with other students who had similar mindsets and schedules, and they always had someone to eat with. In turn, University officials appreciated the chance to keep a watchful eye on their sometimes troublesome charges. Strict rules were often enforced. For example, at the Sorbonne, "if a student attacks, knocks down, or severly beats one of the students, he has to pay on sester of wine to his fellows, and this wine ought to be of a better to best quality." (Lucas, 66).
In Oxford and Cambridge, the idea of collegial living was taken one step further. Students living in simpled dormitories eveolved those living spaces over time into sometimes elaborate institutions, each with its own traditions, history, rights and priveleges. Eventually, the older students living in these houses began to tutor and lecture the younger students; often, outside instruction was dispensed with completely. This became the model for the residential college, a place of both living and learning.
Early American Institutions. The first institutions of higher education in the colonies (and later the United States) were modeled, naturally, after the great European universities -- more specifically Oxford and Cambridge. The tendency at these early instiutions (Harvard, for example) was to "house students together in a residential dormitory...the aim was to foster among all students a common social, moral and intellectual life" (Lucas, 111). Rules were strict and punishments could be severe. From the early 1700s on, rapid expansion and overcrowding lead to more serious incidents. Typical incidents of the day included drunkenness, debauchery, violent assaults, and gambling. In one memorable incident, 22 Harvard students were expelled in 1728 for stealing and eating a local farmer's geese. As the United States expanded westward, so did its colleges, eventually choosing to build universities in the "ideal bucolic setting" (small towns in the country) instead of the large and dirty cities. The higher concentration of young people in these towns made university officials even more determined to control student behavior and student life and "student dormitories were viewed as a means ideally suited to that end" (Lucas, 126). Frustrated by the strict regimen, students began organizing into groups -- the beginnings of student orgs & clubs.
Student Services Arises. Throughout the first half of the 20th century, increasing attention was paid to student's extracurricular life. By this time, "academic leaders became persuaded that athletics, social clubs, Greek-letter societies, campus newspapers and student magazines were evolving without benefit of adequate coordination and supervision" (Lucas, 203). It was seen that non-academic activities carried great benefit for the students and for the institutions. Out of this idea came the notion that on-campus housing facilities needed to be renovated, expanded and placed under close supervision. Deans of Men and Deans of Women began to appear on the scene, as well as support staff charged with overseeing dormitories.
Rapid Changes. The next major change to Campus Housing came in the 1940s after the close of World War II. The Serviceman's Readjustment Act (also known as the GI Bill) provided funding for veterans to go to college, and go they did. Enrollments swelled all over the United States, and not only were vets coming to campus but they were bringing their families with them. Universities had to build (quickly!) spaces for current students, new students, and families of the students. The building boom continued throughout the 50s, 60s and early 70s. Many of the high-rise type facilities on campuses around the United States were built during this time to maximize the number of students that could fit into a small area of land. During this time, buildings were increasingly staffed by students in addition to professionals. The job of the Resident Assistant was really to enforce policy and ensure that things ran smoothly. In the 80s and 90s, the idea of residence halls as communities of learning (rather than just a place to live) really came back into the forefront as studies began to show that students who lived on campus were more likely to be successful students and graduate on time. Student staff were given more of a focus on developing a community rather than just enforcing policy.
"Dorm" vs. "Residence Hall" If you hang around Residence Life professionals long enough, you will notice that many of us do not use the term "dorm." "Dorm" is short for "dormitory" and comes from the Latin "dormire" which means "to sleep." To us, the places our students live are much much more than just a place to lay your head. If our buildings were just "dorms," they would be a room and a shower and a place for students to store things. But we believe that we provide much more than that -- we give students an experience, a place to learn and grow, a place to make new friends, a place to find themselves. We provide support, assistance, and resources to our students. The words carry a lot of weight for many in our profession. "Dorms" are institutional, uncaring and unfeeling; "Residence Halls" are community-focused, warm and most importantly, home.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Get-to-Know: Steven Sweat, Beaty West GHD 2009-2010
Hello again all and happy Monday. Today I'd like to introduce to you Steven Sweat, the GHD who will be leading Beaty West in the Fall. Happy Reading! (That's Steven there on the left with an unidentified friend).
SHORT BIOGRAPHY: Hello new friends of UF! I’m Steven Sweat, first year Graduate Hall Director in Beaty Towers West. I’m currently seeking my Masters in the Student Personnel in Higher Education program at UF and hope to graduate in 2011 to search for full-time professional positions in Housing and Residence Life at a college or university. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a Minor in Music Performance from Clemson University in Clemson, SC; and graduated from Lower Richland High School, located in Hopkins, SC, in 2005 in the top 1% of my graduating class. I was a Resident Assistant at Clemson University for 3 years, primarily working with Freshman and Honors students, and have been involved in several student organizations including the Resident Hall Association, the Clemson Gay-Straight Alliance, the Clemson University Symphony Orchestra, Clemson’s Safe Zone program, and many more! I’m an avid fan and supporter of music of all kinds, from Classical to New Age and beyond. I’m very sociable with others, but do know when it’s time to be alone for self-reflection and rest. I look forward to being involved with UF’s on-campus life and learning what it means to be a Gator. *SNAP*
A DAY IN MY LIFE LOOKS LIKE: Waking up, checking Facebook, getting in a few cartoons, tons of meetings depending on the day, checking Facebook, rendezvous with a few friends and colleagues, homework/studying, checking out late-night TV, checking Facebook. Oh!...and of course my 3 square meals and my 8-hours of sleep….or less. LOL! Did I mention checking Facebook?
TV SHOWS I WATCH: TOO many to type. But on average I usually watch anime, sitcoms, sitcoms from years ago, cartoons, cartoons from years ago, some reality shows, etc. A full list of shows can be found on my Facebook page.
ON MY IPOD RIGHT NOW: The many theme songs to a few animes I watch, including Bleach, Code Geass, and Sailor Moon….and I can tell not many know what I’m talking about at this point. LOL!
I CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT MY…: Ipod, cell phone, laptop, and my intense sociability.
MY MYERS-BRIGGS TYPE/TRUE COLORS COLOR: ENFJ/*It’s been a while since I did True Colors, so I kind of forgot. :-/
WHAT I REALLY LIKE ABOUT MY JOB: I can go above and beyond the call of duty in making a difference in residents’ lives, getting them involved in the campus community, and helping them reap all the benefits of on-campus living!
BIGGEST PET PEEVE: Waiting for extended periods of time (standing in lines, rush hour traffic, waiting for trains to cross, following slow interstate drivers, dial-up connections, etc.).
ONE THING ABOUT ME THAT I'M PROUD OF: I love myself; therefore, I’m more capable of loving and appreciating others.
IF I DIDN'T HAVE THIS JOB I WOULD BE: An Assistant Residence Hall Coordinator at Illinois State University.
Friday, April 24, 2009
It's Never Too Early to Get a Head Start!
I know, I know, you haven't even finished finals yet, so what am I doing talking about next fall? As the returning RAs & GHDs can attest, training is an intense and busy time. The most successful staff members that I supervise are the ones that come into the training period organized and with a clear plan of what they would like to accomplish throughout the year. So I thought I would take some time to outline some of the things that you can do over the summer to help prepare to have a great year.
For RAs:
Floor Theme: In order to create a coordinated and welcoming atmosphere for your floor, you may choose to utilize a theme to tie all of your preparations together. For example, the 1st Floor of Jennings West last year started the year with a Jungle theme. All of the door tags and bulletin boards fit into this theme. You could even take it a step further and plan your first program according to the theme!
Door Tags. Remember when you came on to campus for the first time and there was a nametag on your door? Well, the RAs on each floor are responsible for creating those. It helps our residents feel welcome from the moment they step into the building. Door tags do not have to be complicated, but they must be neat and appropriate. For example, if you don't have good handwriting, you may choose to utilize a computer for all or part of this task. The difficult piece is that you won't have a list of your residents until you arrive on campus in the fall; however, you can still do a significant amount of this work before you arrive. Be sure to plan to do a door tag for your GHD as well.
Bulletin Boards. Each of you will have at least one bulletin board that you will be responsible for throughout the year. Most of you will have at least two; Beaty RAs will have 4 (2 on each floor)! Now is the time to start thinking about what you want to put on your bulletin boards. You can check out the resource links on the left side of this page for some ideas if you need them. Many RAs choose to use one bulletin board as a "Get to Know your RA" space and use the other to highlight some campus resources & programs, but be creative! Returning RAs: Finals week is a great time to get into the office and work on the die cuts, etc. Just remember that you will have to take them home with you for the summer as we do not have any storage space.
Message Board. Some RAs choose to utilize a message board on their door that lets residents know where they are. For example, you might have a round piece of cardboard divided up into sections (At class, at the desk, here, sleeping) and a spinner that you can use to point to what you are doing. Decide whether or not you would like to utilize one of these tools, and if you do, this is another thing you can create over the summer.
Contact Information. Be sure that we have your correct email address and telephone number in case we need to contact you over the summer. Make sure you save my email address & phone number somewhere in case you need to get a hold of me. Email is the primary way that we will communicate with you over the summer, so please be sure your email inbox isn't full and that you are checking your email periodically.
Mark the training date on your calendar in big, bold letters. Staff training begins on August 10, 2009. You MUST be here on that day. Training begins at noon and you are expected to be on time. You may be able to get into your room a couple of days prior to that depending on how our buildings are looking; watch your summer email for updates.
Things to Think About. Here are some questions you should think about over the summer. Each RA does things a little differently but having a sense of where you are going is important.
1. Do I want to give out my cell phone #/facebook profile/AIM screen name to my staff and residents?
2. What days and times am I most alert (so that I can sign up for those desk shifts)?
3. How will I organize myself during training so that I can pay attention and take information away from the sessions?
4. Are there any weekends I will need off during the fall semester? (Bring those dates with you so you can request them when you get back)
5. How will I handle it when problems arise with my residents? With my staff?
Stay Safe and Have a Great Summer. This might be the most important thing of all -- enjoy your summer and your time off or classes or internship. Be ready to hit the ground running when you come back!
For GHDs:
Understand How Your Role is Different that the RAs. You won't have bulletin boards that you need to do, but you will need to ensure that all the BBs in your area get done. You will also have an office to organize. What office supplies will you need? How will you file things?
Know when to Report to Training. Training for GHDs begins on July 31, 2009 in the afternoon. You will probably be able to get into your apartment 1-2 days before. If you are coming from out of state, those days will probably be extremely busy as you take care of driver's license, insurance, banking, etc. You will have very little time during training to take care of these errands.
How Do I Want To Communicate with My Staff Over the Summer? If you want to send emails to your staff over the summer, that's fine. (I will send you a staff roster very soon). Just remember that our staff have many other things going on so be wary of what you ask them to do for you before they get here.
Things to Think About. Here are some philosophical questions for you to ponder over the summer. Don't forget, you will get some training in many of these areas:
1. Am I comfortable with my staff coming by/hanging out in my apartment?
2. Do I want to give out my cell phone/facebook/screen name information to my staff?
3. What sorts of personal information do I want to share with my staff?
4. What kinds of things can I do from the beginning to help staff feel welcome and begin building a staff team?
5. What kind of relationship do I want to have with my fellow GHDs? With my supervisor?
6. How will I organize my notes and my files about each of my staff members?
I certainly think this post has gone long enough. Let me know if any of you have any questions! Returners: feel free to post your comments on some things that you do over the summer to help yourselves get ready for fall.
For RAs:
Floor Theme: In order to create a coordinated and welcoming atmosphere for your floor, you may choose to utilize a theme to tie all of your preparations together. For example, the 1st Floor of Jennings West last year started the year with a Jungle theme. All of the door tags and bulletin boards fit into this theme. You could even take it a step further and plan your first program according to the theme!
Door Tags. Remember when you came on to campus for the first time and there was a nametag on your door? Well, the RAs on each floor are responsible for creating those. It helps our residents feel welcome from the moment they step into the building. Door tags do not have to be complicated, but they must be neat and appropriate. For example, if you don't have good handwriting, you may choose to utilize a computer for all or part of this task. The difficult piece is that you won't have a list of your residents until you arrive on campus in the fall; however, you can still do a significant amount of this work before you arrive. Be sure to plan to do a door tag for your GHD as well.
Bulletin Boards. Each of you will have at least one bulletin board that you will be responsible for throughout the year. Most of you will have at least two; Beaty RAs will have 4 (2 on each floor)! Now is the time to start thinking about what you want to put on your bulletin boards. You can check out the resource links on the left side of this page for some ideas if you need them. Many RAs choose to use one bulletin board as a "Get to Know your RA" space and use the other to highlight some campus resources & programs, but be creative! Returning RAs: Finals week is a great time to get into the office and work on the die cuts, etc. Just remember that you will have to take them home with you for the summer as we do not have any storage space.
Message Board. Some RAs choose to utilize a message board on their door that lets residents know where they are. For example, you might have a round piece of cardboard divided up into sections (At class, at the desk, here, sleeping) and a spinner that you can use to point to what you are doing. Decide whether or not you would like to utilize one of these tools, and if you do, this is another thing you can create over the summer.
Contact Information. Be sure that we have your correct email address and telephone number in case we need to contact you over the summer. Make sure you save my email address & phone number somewhere in case you need to get a hold of me. Email is the primary way that we will communicate with you over the summer, so please be sure your email inbox isn't full and that you are checking your email periodically.
Mark the training date on your calendar in big, bold letters. Staff training begins on August 10, 2009. You MUST be here on that day. Training begins at noon and you are expected to be on time. You may be able to get into your room a couple of days prior to that depending on how our buildings are looking; watch your summer email for updates.
Things to Think About. Here are some questions you should think about over the summer. Each RA does things a little differently but having a sense of where you are going is important.
1. Do I want to give out my cell phone #/facebook profile/AIM screen name to my staff and residents?
2. What days and times am I most alert (so that I can sign up for those desk shifts)?
3. How will I organize myself during training so that I can pay attention and take information away from the sessions?
4. Are there any weekends I will need off during the fall semester? (Bring those dates with you so you can request them when you get back)
5. How will I handle it when problems arise with my residents? With my staff?
Stay Safe and Have a Great Summer. This might be the most important thing of all -- enjoy your summer and your time off or classes or internship. Be ready to hit the ground running when you come back!
For GHDs:
Understand How Your Role is Different that the RAs. You won't have bulletin boards that you need to do, but you will need to ensure that all the BBs in your area get done. You will also have an office to organize. What office supplies will you need? How will you file things?
Know when to Report to Training. Training for GHDs begins on July 31, 2009 in the afternoon. You will probably be able to get into your apartment 1-2 days before. If you are coming from out of state, those days will probably be extremely busy as you take care of driver's license, insurance, banking, etc. You will have very little time during training to take care of these errands.
How Do I Want To Communicate with My Staff Over the Summer? If you want to send emails to your staff over the summer, that's fine. (I will send you a staff roster very soon). Just remember that our staff have many other things going on so be wary of what you ask them to do for you before they get here.
Things to Think About. Here are some philosophical questions for you to ponder over the summer. Don't forget, you will get some training in many of these areas:
1. Am I comfortable with my staff coming by/hanging out in my apartment?
2. Do I want to give out my cell phone/facebook/screen name information to my staff?
3. What sorts of personal information do I want to share with my staff?
4. What kinds of things can I do from the beginning to help staff feel welcome and begin building a staff team?
5. What kind of relationship do I want to have with my fellow GHDs? With my supervisor?
6. How will I organize my notes and my files about each of my staff members?
I certainly think this post has gone long enough. Let me know if any of you have any questions! Returners: feel free to post your comments on some things that you do over the summer to help yourselves get ready for fall.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Get-to-Know: Jennifer Leavitt, Your RLC
Hello again, all! I thought I would start out this blog by doing a series of "get-to-know-you" posts, and since I don't have to ask for my own permission, I'm going to start with me! Later in the summer, I will hopefully be providing some information on the GHDs, maintenance/custodial staff, and clerks in the area.
Jennifer Leavitt, Residence Life Coordinator for Beaty/Jennings
SHORT BIOGRAPHY: I grew up in Iowa and am the oldest of three girls in my family. After high school, I attended Simpson College (small private college famous for admitting the scientist George Washington Carver when no one else would) where I majored in History with a minor in Religion. I worked for two years as an RA while in college and decided to go on to graduate school to get my Master's degree in Higher Education Administration from the University of Florida. While here as a grad student, I worked for two years as a GHD in Broward Hall. After graduation, I spent a summer working as the Food & Beverage Manager for Lake Lodge in Yellowstone National Park before moving back to the midwest to take a Residence Life job at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. I worked at UWGB for three years before moving back to Gainesville in the summer of 2008 for the RLC position. I love Gainesville and the University of Florida and I'm really happy to be back. I have a young son, Jackson (who just turned 3), and a boyfriend who currently lives in Chicago. Most people call me Jenny and that's how I usually introduce myself although I think Jennifer sounds more professional.
A DAY IN MY LIFE: Completely crazy! I'm usually in the office around 8:30. A typical day for me includes 3-4 hours of meetings: individual supervision meetings with the GHDs, training committee meetings, housing staff meetings, project/construction meetings, or meetings with students. I am responsible for the day-to-day workings of both buildings, including staff issues, programming, community development, judicial meetings, facilities work, administration, and so on. Much of my work goes on "behind the scenes." For example, I recently got to pick out the furniture and carpet for the new Jennings Library. I leave work around 5 and go pick up Jackson; we usually play outside for a while or go for a walk before dinner and then he goes to bed around 9. I do housework and chores for about an hour before I finally get to relax. Don't know what I would do without my DVR!
TV SHOWS I WATCH: American Idol (shameless indulgence :) ), The Amazing Race, Top Chef, Antiques Roadshow, Cubs Baseball, & Gator Football
ON MY IPOD RIGHT NOW: I listen to a lot of podcasts, particularly about hiking, travel, running and personal finance.
I CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT MY: Family, friends and collection of books
TRUE COLORS/MYERS BRIGGS: I'm a Gold and an ESTJ (at least in the work setting). This means I'm hyper-organized and pay alot of attention to little things -- like being on time, working ahead, etc. I'm not very "fluffy" and tend to put business ahead of the personal. My brain works in very logical & sequential ways. At home and in my personal life, I tend to place less importance on some of these things.
WHAT I REALLY LIKE ABOUT MY JOB: I enjoy working with staff and the ability to mentor GHDS/RAs. I like that my job is a little different every day and that I get to stretch and grow and refine my skills. I enjoy that our lives have rhythm -- there is a natural beginning and end to our work and a chance to start over every year.
BIGGEST PET PEEVE(S): At work, my pet peeves include lateness and side-talk during meetings. I also don't really like hugging people I don't know well. In life, my pet peeve is cupboard doors/dresser drawers being left open.
ONE THING ABOUT ME THAT I'M PROUD OF: I think I'm a nerd and I wear it proudly. I know lots of random trivia and file lots of facts away in my brain. I'm likely to start a sentence with "Did you know.....?" I tried out for Jeopardy last summer, although I have not yet been asked to be on the show.
IF I DIDN'T HAVE THIS JOB I WOULD BE: A park ranger or a travel agent.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Welcome to the Beaty/Jennings Staff Blog!
As we wrap up the end of the 2008-2009 school year, it's inevitable that I start looking forward to the new year and the new staff that will inhabit the Beaty/Jennings Area in the fall. I'm starting this blog as a way to connect staff to each other, to provide information and resources about working as an RA in the area, and an opportunity for you to get to know me. I'm planning on doing articles about the building, our residents, websites that you can use, information that housing sends out, profiles of our senior clerks/maintenance/custodians, and so on. If you think of a great idea for a topic, send it my way! Also be on the lookout for fun tidbits and maybe even a contest or two. Thanks for reading and I look forward to getting to know you all over the next year.
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