Life in the dorms explored by student
- by Sarah Warren: Newswriting Student

Graduating from high school is part of growing up. After receiving their diplomas, many students venture off to college, and this could mean the time to move out.

For students attending Cameron University, the transition to a more independent lifestyle is made easier thanks to the university’s dorms, which offer students a place to call home. CU has been housing students since the early 1900s. For those wanting to fly from their parents’ nests, the dorms may be the right choice. However, before taking the flight into independence, one might want to get a closer look at the expenses, rules and other aspects of dorm living from the people who reside and work there.

Located at the south end of the campus are the Shepler Towers, which many students call home. The girls live in North Shepler, while the boys occupy South Shepler. Before spending money decorating, students have other expenses to take into account. The basic fees for living on campus include the room, local telephone service, cable, meal plan and an activity fee. Expenses for the dorms vary depending on room occupancy and the type of meal plan chosen. The CU Web site offers a pricing guide with many options. After the student picks a meal plan, and possibly a roommate, the next step is to fill out a contract.

Although the contract lists the rules and regulations for all aspects of living in the dorms, the staff continually works at making students feel at home, according to Samantha Thomas, vice president of student affairs.

“We are very proud of our newly remodeled lounges that offer students a place to gather and study,” Thomas said.

There are many workers in the towers whose job it is to make the residence halls run like clockwork. A resident assistant, or RA, on each floor is available to give immediate assistance to students. Hall directors, one to each tower, assist students with counseling and in activities, but they also take the role of disciplinarian. Hazel Lewis assists the boys on the south side, while Mary Stevens takes care of the north side.

Stevens believes that the dorms have a lot to offer students.

“The first is that the dorms offer a safe environment. Second, the student is close to class, and last, residence life offers good socialization,” Stevens said.

Dorm living may allow students to spend more time on their work and make new friends, rather than worrying about bills associated with renting off campus.