Eastern Michigan University Dorms: A Comprehensive Guide to Residence Life

Eastern Michigan University (EMU) provides a variety of on-campus housing options designed to foster a supportive and engaging living-learning environment. From traditional residence halls to apartment-style living, EMU's Residence Life program aims to support students' academic, social, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual growth. The university is dedicated to creating a welcoming campus community where students feel valued, respected, and safe.

Residence Life Philosophy, Mission, and Vision

EMU's Residence Life program is built on the philosophy that learning extends beyond the classroom. Residence halls are viewed as integral spaces for individual development and community building. The Residence Life team strives to create an environment where students are both supported and challenged, fostering a sense of belonging and accountability.

Mission: To build and enhance a welcoming and supportive campus residential community that respects each member's dignity and well-being.

Vision: To create residential spaces where everyone feels valued, interacts with diverse neighbors, learns to live in a community, and is accountable to others. The goal is for residents to grow, explore, reflect, and feel safe and supported.

Residence Hall Staff Organization

The Residence Life staff is structured to provide comprehensive support to students living on campus. The organization includes:

Director: A full-time director who leads the residence life professional staff.
Area Coordinators/Hall Directors: Live in each residential area and are part of the Office for Campus Life and the Student Life division. They are selected for their leadership abilities and experience in community building.
Community Advisors (CAs): Student staff members assigned to each floor of the residence halls, trained to serve as community builders and resources. CAs play a crucial role in fostering community and providing support to residents.

Housing Options at EMU

EMU offers a variety of housing options to suit different student needs and preferences. These options include residence halls and apartments. Each residence hall room and apartment unit offers a range of amenities, services, and technology to support students' academic and social needs.

Residence Halls

Cedarwood: Accommodates 120 students in double/triple rooms.
Elmwood: Primarily for first-year students, offering single and double rooms.
Northlawn: Houses 180 students in single and double rooms and features a dining room on the ground level.
Maplewood: Houses 84 returning students, offering double rooms, with some single rooms available.

Apartments

Hillside Suites: Designed for students entering at least their fifth semester, offering 2- or 4-person suites. Full-size refrigerators are provided in Hillside Suites
Parkwoods Apartments: Offers two-bedroom furnished apartments for 90 students, also for those entering at least their fifth semester. Lofting beds in Parkwoods Apartments is prohibited, but bunking is allowed. Full-size refrigerators are provided in Parkwoods Apartments

Other Options

Group Houses: Available for 5-8 students in 3-6 houses, for those who have lived on campus for four semesters.
Gender Inclusive Housing: Provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ students, for those comfortable living with people of all genders.

Housing for Graduate and Seminary Students

EMU offers a limited number of apartments/suites for graduate and seminary students. Exceptions to on-campus living requirements are granted for those living with parents in specific counties, those over 23 years old, married students, custodial parents, or those who have lived on campus for six semesters. Commuter students must submit an annual housing form via MyEMU. Unauthorized off-campus living may result in housing charges.

Residence Life Procedures

Room Selection and Assignments

Room selection begins in the spring for current students, with priority given to those in their seventh semester or above. New student assignments are made by July based on preferences indicated during the application process.

Roommate Assignments

Returning students have the opportunity to find their own roommates. For those who need assistance, EMU Housing can help match students based on compatibility and preferences.

Check-In/Check-Out

Students must complete a room clearance form at both check-in and check-out. Failure to follow proper procedures may result in fees.

Read also: A Detailed Look at ECNU

Room Changes

Room changes must be approved by the Area Coordinator and Director for Campus Life. Typically, roommate mediation is required before a room change is approved.

Single Rooms and Room Consolidation

Single rooms are limited and are guaranteed only for students with approved accommodations. To maximize space utilization, room consolidation may occur.

Non-Discriminatory Access

Residence Life supports inclusive housing consistent with the LGBTQIA+ Student Support Policy.

Residence Hall Closings

Residence halls (except for Hillside Suites, Parkwoods Apartments, and Group Living Houses) close during winter and spring breaks. International students may request temporary housing assistance.

Facilities, Services, and Policies

EMU's residence halls offer a variety of facilities and services to enhance the living experience. However, certain policies are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.

Read also: ESU Tuition Guide

Bicycles

Bicycles are not permitted in students’ rooms, hallways, or stairwells of residence halls. They should not be stored near building entrances. Instead, use the provided bicycle racks and sheds throughout campus. Always lock your bicycle to prevent theft. Bicycles are also not allowed inside academic buildings.

Candles

Burning candles is prohibited in all on-campus housing to ensure fire safety and reduce the risk of accidental fires.

Community Damages

Residents share responsibility for the condition of their residence halls. If damage occurs in common areas and no one takes responsibility, the community will share the repair costs. Students are encouraged to hold each other accountable to maintain facilities.

Community Responsibility

Students are expected to live interdependently, respecting the needs and rights of others. This includes maintaining a clean and orderly living environment and fostering a sense of community.

Electrical Appliances

Due to safety and circuit overload concerns, only specific electrical appliances are allowed. Permitted items include lamps (excluding halogen bulb lamps), hair dryers, and curling irons. Microwaves are only allowed in floor lounges, and personal air conditioners or heaters require special permission. Refrigerators up to 2.5 cubic feet are permitted, but only one per room.

Fire Safety

Fire safety is a top priority. Do not tamper with electrical equipment, use fireworks, or possess flammable materials. Blocking exits or hallways is prohibited. Violators will incur a $500 fine and may face additional disciplinary action. All open flames are banned, and everyone must evacuate during fire drills.

Fireworks

Possession or use of fireworks is strictly prohibited and violates both campus and city ordinances. Violators will face disciplinary action according to the Standards of Conduct procedures.

Furnishings

University furniture must not be moved between rooms, sections, or lounges without approval. Alterations to university property are prohibited.

Guest Housing

Guests are allowed with certain conditions. They must be invited and accompanied by a resident. Overnight guests (aged 18-23) are permitted for up to three nights per semester with prior registration. Guests must follow residence hall regulations, and any disruption can lead to their removal. Roommates must agree on hosting overnight guests.

Inappropriate Material

Art and media in rooms should follow community standards. Items that reference alcohol or are sexually provocative or degrading are not allowed. Students may be asked to remove inappropriate items.

Inspection of Rooms

The university respects student privacy but reserves the right to enter rooms during emergencies or policy violations. Authorized personnel will announce their presence before entering. If a search is necessary, at least one resident will be present, and there will be two university personnel, usually including a Student Life staff member and Campus Safety employee. Local law enforcement may be involved if required for safety.

Keys

Students are responsible for their room and hall keys. Lost keys should be reported immediately, and a $100 fee will be charged for replacements. Refunds are available if lost keys are found and returned by the end of the academic year.

Kitchens

Residence halls have kitchenettes for student use. Students must keep these areas clean and respect others' property. The university does not provide kitchenware.

Drink and Snack Machines

Coin-operated vending machines are available in residence halls. Report any issues to Pioneer College Caterers.

Laundry Machines

Laundry facilities are available in each residence hall and are free for residential students.

Lockouts

Students should always carry their ID card and room key. In case of lockout, first contact your roommate or CA. If unavailable, call EMU Campus Security at 540-432-4911.

Lofts/Platforms

Student-owned lofts are not allowed. EMU-provided furniture can be lofted, bunked, or set as single beds. Wooden platforms or other structures are not permitted.

Lounges

Public lounges are for socializing, relaxing, and entertaining guests. They should not be used as bedrooms. Respect and consideration for others are essential, and lounge furniture must remain in the lounge.

Mandatory Residence Meetings

Several mandatory meetings are held each semester within each dorm, suite, or apartment building. Attendance is required and will be communicated by CAs or ACs.

Personal Property

Students are responsible for their personal belongings. The university does not reimburse for lost or stolen items. Rooms should be kept locked, and students are encouraged to insure their property.

Pets

Pets are not allowed in residence halls, except for harmless fish.

Quiet Hours

Quiet hours are observed daily to ensure a balance of study, sleep, and socializing. Courtesy hours apply throughout the day, and students must be considerate of others' needs.

Room Decorating

Personalizing rooms is encouraged, but use mounting rails or non-damaging adhesives for decorations. Nails, tacks, and painting are not allowed. Consult your AC for special requests. UL-listed rope LED lights are allowed year-round; traditional string lights are only permitted from Thanksgiving until Christmas break. Live Christmas trees are banned, and decorative materials must not exceed 20% of any wall’s surface.

Security

In emergencies, call 911 or Campus Life On Call at 540-476-4578. A Campus Life staff member is available 24/7, and EMU Campus Security can be reached at 540-432-4911.

Selling and Soliciting

Sales presentations require permission from the vice president of finance. Off-campus sales personnel and credit card marketing are not allowed.

Skateboards, Scooters, Rollerblades, and Hoverboards

Hoverboards are banned on campus. Other non-hand-braked transportation methods should only be used on asphalt surfaces when there is low traffic.

Storage

Summer storage spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Items must be boxed and labeled with the owner’s name. Guests must be registered and accompanied by their host.

Community: The Heart of EMU Residence Life

Building lasting friendships and connections is a key aspect of the EMU experience. The Living Learning Communities provide an environment where shared interests and academic goals foster personal growth and success. The Housing & Residence Life team is committed to providing supportive, comfortable housing options tailored to individual needs.

Additional Campus Resources

EMU Student Center

The EMU Student Center offers a relaxing atmosphere, diverse dining options (Mondo subs, Sono Latin, Build Pizza and Starbucks), shopping choices, student services, and quiet study spaces. The bookstore and the EMU COVID-19 Testing Center are also located in the Student Center.

Dining Services

EMU Dining provides a variety of options to suit every taste, lifestyle, and budget. Chick-fil-A is located in McKenny Hall. The Commons, near Pray-Harrold, offers all-you-care-to-eat dining, and markets with sandwiches, soups, and snacks are in Pray-Harrold, Halle Library, McKenny Hall, the Marshall Building, and the Science Complex (Mark Jefferson wing).

Health Center

A collaboration between EMU, Saint Joseph Mercy Health System, and IHA, the health center provides 7-day-a-week primary care and urgent care services to students, staff, and the greater community.

Recreation/IM Building

The newly-renovated Rec/IM building features cardio and weight room space, plus a club pool and an Olympic-sized pool.

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