- What to expect after move in
Living in a residence hall for the first time is more than just unpacking boxes and decorating the room—it’s a full-on experience that blends structure with spontaneity.
Yes, there are planned activities: residence hall staff will host welcome events, floor meetings, and social mixers to help students meet people and settle in. Resident assistants (RAs) are there to guide you, answer questions and build a sense of community through programming and support. Planned events this fall include Haunted High-Rises, Green Cup, a kickball tournament, Taste of Athens and more.
But some of the most memorable parts are the unplanned moments. Fire alarms—often triggered by burnt popcorn or overzealous cooking—can happen at any hour, including 3 a.m. Students find themselves standing outside with their hallmates, wrapped in blankets and laughing through the chaos. These moments, while inconvenient, often spark new friendships.
Expect late-night chats in the hallway, spontaneous group study sessions and impromptu celebrations. Residence halls are buzzing with energy, and it’s common to hear music, laughter or the occasional karaoke session echoing through the halls.
Students will also learn the rhythm of shared living—navigating community bathrooms, respecting quiet hours and finding their own space in a busy environment. It’s a crash course in independence, adaptability and community-building.
Most importantly, residence hall life is where many students find their first sense of belonging on campus. Whether it’s bonding over laundry mishaps or sharing snacks during a movie night, these everyday interactions help turn strangers into friends.
