Inside Scoop: LSU SophomoreGOLD and Housing Applications

Even though it's only February, it's already time to start thinking about housing for next year. Housing reapplications will be taking place soon, a time when current residents can renew their contracts and select their spaces for next year. And this fall also brings the introduction of a new community that will have even us seniors wishing we could go back to sophomore year.

 SophomoreGOLD is a new living, learning, program in East Campus Apartments with events specifically geared toward sophomores. It places an emphasis on career planning, leadership, and community outreach...Oh, and did I mention that if accepted to the program, you will be GUARANTEED a spot in East Campus Apartments? For a virtual tour of the awesome on-campus apartments, click here.

I was able to get the inside scoop from Rhea Perkins, the Herget Residential Life Coordinator who is assisting with the implementation of the program. If you are a current freshman, or a curious onlooker....read on!

 

Tell me a little about the SophomoreGOLD experience? 

 The SophomoreGOLD Living-Learning Community (LLC)  is a new initiative with Residential Life and First Year Experience. We are teaming up to create the Sophomore Year Experience. The SophomoreGOLD LLC is the living component to this new experience.

ECA (The future location for SophomoreGOLD) on a spring day.

 What was the motivation behind starting a program like this? 

 Sophomore programming supports Residential Life as well as First Year Experience’s strategic plans.  This collaboration also supports the institution’s retention initiatives. In addition, research shows that sophomores are a unique student population that requires additional support and guidance.  

 Who would be an ideal candidate for SophomoreGOLD?

 The ideal candidate for the program would be any sophomore student who is committed to the LSU motto, “Love Purple Live Gold.”

 What do you hope sophomores will get out of the program? 

 We hope that sophomores will benefit from the academic success, career exploration, leadership development, and civic engagement initiatives.  It is our goal that the sophomores receive the support they need and utilize the resources provided while having fun and building lasting relationships in the process!

 Do you have any special events or programs planned?

 First Year Experience has an array of programming for the Sophomore Year Experience.  Some of the special events include various field trips to explore Louisiana, shadowing LSU alumni in their career of choice, round table discussions, and many other activities to help sophomores navigate their second year at LSU.  

 Where do you see this program going in future years?

This program could become a “one-stop shop” for all sophomore concerns, addressing all sophomore needs.

 How will applicants be selected?

Applicants will be selected based on their responses to the application questions.

 Are there any plans for a junior or senior program if this one is successful?

Not as of yet, however LSU is always thinking of new ways to better meet the needs of their students. A similar junior or senior program may be in the works.

 How can current freshman apply?

Freshmen can apply by simply clicking on the link: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/7ZQ9PCM

 Interested? Then simply fill out the questions on the above link. Hurry though, applications are due next Friday, February  11. You will be notified of your status before housing renewal, so you won't have to wait around wondering. Questions? Email Rhea at rperkins@lsu.edu.

Returning students are not the only ones who need to be thinking about housing. For incoming freshmen and transfers, I encourage you to apply for housing ASAP! Housing is not guaranteed for freshmen, and assignments are given on a first come first serve basis. Currently, assignments are approximately 80% full for Fall '11, and are expected to fill up entirely within the next month or two. 

After expected capacity is reached, students who apply will be placed on a standby list and no longer guaranteed a spot. So, if you've been accepted to the University, and are looking at staying on campus (which is a totally awesome experience)—get those applications in. You can apply on your PAWs account, under student services. It's $150.00 dollar deposit, but if you cancel by June 1, you get all but $50 of that back.

As always, if you have any questions, comments, or story ideas, feel free to email me at girlinthepurplepolo@gmail.com.

xoxo-- Girl in the Purple Polo

Welcome Back

Welcome Back! I hope everyone had a fantastic break! Despite the end of a relaxing break, I've gotta admit that I'm excited to be back.

Spring semester is always my favorite time at LSU. I love the nice weather, delicious crawfish, and stress-free weekends (I love football, but  LSU Football = High Stress Saturdays). And of course, this semester has special meaning to me, because it is my last one before graduation in May.

This spring, LSU and Res Life have many exciting events and traditions up their sleeve. If you find yourself bored, why not hit up some sports or fine arts? Whether it's baseball, orchestra, gymnastics, theatre or museums--there are tons of great events to support. Missing football? Don't miss the Spring Game for a preview of next season. This semester also promises more Late Night LSU fun, a once a month program sponsored by Students Activities Board. And, don't forget Groovin' on the Grounds, an annual outdoor concert on the Parade Ground.

Res Life will also be joining in on exciting traditions! Between the wide array of individual res hall activities, RHA Snowin in the South, UNPLUG Energy Competition, Housing Reapplication, the RHA Crawfish Boil, and Res Life Cribs, there will be plenty of events to enjoy this semester.

My blog will continue to include tips, spotlights, and an inside perspective on the on-campus experience. Have an idea for an event or topic you'd like covered? Feel free to email me at girlinthepurplepolo@gmail.com

xoxo-- Girl in the Purple Polo

Fall 2010 Semester in Review

With another semester wrapping up, stress levels are high, and students are anxious to get home. Finals week is coming to an end, and all over campus I can feel the mix of tension and excitement.

I know you guys are busy with finals and packing, but here are some quick tips for leaving the halls.

1. Unplug your mini-fridge at least a day BEFORE you leave (And throw away the food, please!). Make sure to put towels around the base, because they tend to leak. (You are required to unplug the fridge before break.)

2. Don't forget to sell your books back. The stands are all over campus, and often you'll find a book or two that hits the jackpot. It's a great way to earn back a little spending money for Christmas and the holidays. Or, you can trade books with friends to save some money next semester.

3. Enjoy one last visit to the dining hall and invite your friends and family to help you use your extra meals. You'll soon be going home to mom's delicious home-cooking, but I usually find myself missing the unlimited ice cream and pizza.

4. Start compiling a list of everything you need a day or two before you leave (feel free to check it twice for good measure). Once you turn in your key, you won't be allowed back into your room until next semester-- so make sure you pack everything you'll need over the next month. Most forgotten item? Cell phone charger-- put that at the top of your list.

5. Follow your RA's closing instructions. From unplugging your electronics to turning in your key--  make sure you follow your RA's closing information. Not only does it help you leave as quickly as possible when you finish that last final, but also prevents charges and fines that might be incurred.

6. Relax. I've said it all year, but it's true. You will survive finals week. Once you've taken that last final congratulate yourself.  Let yourself enjoy a nice, relaxing, stress-free break-- you've earned it.

Here's a look back at my favorite moments of the semester!

Roaring into the Halls-- Move-in Day!

LSU Football went 10-2 with some amazing games this season!

LSU Res Life Cribs launched this semester-- more episodes are coming in the spring!

Boo in the Shoe celebrated its 10th anniversary.

Homecoming week included a mini Tiger Stadium made completely out of donated cans.

Splatterbeat had a great turn out this year!

C4 band plays in the Pentagon.

A breakfast buffet in Evangeline Hall for finals week.

I too am going home for the break so this will be my last blog I post for the year. I've really enjoyed posting for you, and I'll be back at the start of next semester with new tips, pictures, and Spotlights.

Until next semester,

xoxo-- Girl in the Purple Polo