University Housing is introducing two new living experiences for students in the fall of 2013.
The Gender Inclusive Living Experience (GILE) is intended for students who are interested in having a safe, inclusive, comfortable and supportive community living experience for people of all gender identities and expressions. This community in East Quadrangle will support students who identify as a transgender and gender non-conforming in choosing a roommate of any gender.
The Veterans Living Experience (VLE) is a housing option offered for students who have served in the armed forces (active, reserve and National Guard). VLE is intended as a supportive community for student veterans, focusing on needs and providing resources specific to their experiences. The community will be located in North Quadrangle, which houses second year students and above. Because many veterans have traveled abroad and will bring international experiences to the community, it is anticipated that VLE will complement North Quad’s International Impact Theme and the Global Scholars Program.
University Housing plans to hold 12 spaces for GILE in East Quad, which will reopen this summer after an extensive renovation, and the same number of spaces in North Quad for the VLE. Students will need to apply to either of the new living experience opportunities.
A Resident Advisor (RA) will be selected for each community who has specific interest in and awareness of the students’ needs so that they can facilitate community building activities. Additional training will be provided to other residence staff in both East Quad and North Quad to ensure the success of the new living experiences for the students.
University Housing developed the new programs in collaboration with colleagues with The Spectrum Center and the Office of New Student Programs.
