Announcements

Residence Hall Winter Break 2024-2025 Bulletin

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1. Winter break housing will start at 12:00 noon on Saturday, December 14, 2024. The residence halls will be closed during winter break. Resident students who will continue residing in the residence halls during the spring 2025 semester may request break housing for all or portions of the winter break by completing the “Break_Winter_2024-25 Application”. There is no additional cost to stay over the break, but you must apply to be approved. All students that apply to stay are approved and you will receive and email confirmation once you have completed the application. The application will close at 10pm on Thursday, December 12, 2024. The residence halls will reopen for the spring semester at 12 noon on Sunday, January 19, 2025.

2. Students that are graduating or working graduation on Saturday, December 14, 2024, are permitted to stay but must be checked out of the residence hall before 6pm on Saturday, December 14, 2024. You must email your Residential Area Director (RAD) to receive permission to stay until 6pm on Saturday, December 14, 2024. University Housing and Conference Services will verify with the Registrar’s Office the students who have requested to stay for graduation. Once confirmed, you will receive additional check-out instructions from your RAD. You do not need to complete the Break Housing Application.

3. If you are requesting winter break housing and you have scheduled a room change for the spring semester, you must complete the room change before the start of the break. If the room change cannot be completed prior to leaving for the break, you may be asked to take all personal belongings home. This is to help the housekeeping staff clean and prepare for the spring semester. Please see your Residential Area Director (RAD) to make that arrangement. Students assigned to continue housing in the residence halls for spring 2025 are not required to surrender residence hall keys to the staff prior to leaving for the break nor need to move out all your belongings.

4. Students who are not returning to Millersville University for the spring semester, or who are considering not returning, must contact their Residential Area Director (RAD) to receive instructions for checking out of the residence halls. You will need to follow the instructions given to you by your hall director. Failure to do so will result in additional charges.

East Village –Yvonne DeBlois – yvonne.deblois@millersville.edu

Bard/Shenks – Matthew Rutkoski – matthew.rutkoski@millersville.edu

South Village – Kei-shon Graham – kei-shon.graham@millersville.edu

West Village – Philip Watson – philip.watson@millersville.edu

TO COMPLETE THE WINTER BREAK APPLICATION:

  1. Log into your MAX Account
  2. Select Student Services
  3. Select Housing and Dining
  4. Select MyHousing
  5. In your MyHousing Account, go to the Applications tab on the left side and complete the “Break_Winter_2024-25Application”.
  6. Once you complete the application, you will receive an email stating that your application was completed.

GENERAL WINTER BREAK INFORMATION

  • 24-hour quiet hours go into effect at 9:00 PM on Friday, December 6, 2024, and continue through the end of the semester.
  • The residence halls will be closed during winter break except for returning residents who have requested and been approved for winter break housing by University Housing & Conference Services.
  • Card access for all resident students will be discontinued during the winter break. Only returning residents who have requested winter break housing will have card access privileges.
  • Guests and visitation are not permitted during the break due to safety and security reasons.
  • See Dining Services, Health Services, SMC, and The Hub websites for hours of operation.
  • For non-urgent police and campus calls during holiday closing times dial (717) 871-4357. For fire, police, and EMS emergencies, always dial 911.
  • Students assigned to continue housing in the residence halls for spring 2025 are not required to surrender residence hall keys to the staff prior to leaving for the break nor need to move out all your belongings.
  • The Housekeeping and Facilities Management Staff will be working in the campus residence halls to perform maintenance tasks during the break that may require entrance to resident rooms. The University Housing & Conference Services staff may post a courtesy sign on your door indicating that the room is occupied during the winter break. This sign will ensure that workers will not enter your room without knocking. Please leave it in place for the duration of the winter break.
  • All students assigned to the residence halls for Fall 2024 are automatically assigned to continue residing in the residence halls for Spring 2025, unless you have officially withdrawn from the University, been approved for a leave of absence for Spring 2025, been approved for study abroad for Spring 2025, or are an international student on a current study abroad visa who will not be returning for the Spring 2025 semester. In all these cases, you must not be registered for classes at Millersville University for Spring 2025.

WINTER BREAK PREPARATION PROCEDURES

The residence hall staff will conduct health and safety inspections in each residence hall suite at the start of the winter break. Please carefully review the following instructions and information to avoid violations of the Student Code of Conduct for improper maintenance of your residence hall suite/room.

Prior to the start of the break, all resident students returning for the spring and not registered for the winter break period MUST:

  • Dispose of all trash by removing it to the dumpster in the parking lots outside your residence hall.
  • Clean the room/suite including sweeping the floor and wiping down furniture.
  • Clean your bathroom and report any issues with constant run toilets, sinks, showers to the residence hall staff.
  • Remove food from your refrigerator and properly dispose of it through proper trash removal.
  • Defrost your refrigerator.
  • If you are leaving for the break, turn off the lights.
  • If you are leaving for the break, set the thermostat to 70 degrees.
  • If you are leaving for the break, close and lock your room window in the Villages.
  • If you are leaving for the break, lower the blinds halfway but leave them open.
  • If you are leaving for the break, lock your bedroom door and your suite door.
  • If you are leaving for the break, please take any valuables home with you.
  • If you are leaving for the break please move all items from your residence hall floor, especially computer equipment and any items that can be damaged by flooding.
  • If you are leaving for the break and you have an approved animal through Learning Services in your room, you must take the animal with you. You may not leave animals in the residence hall in the care of another student or staff member.

Congratulations to our December 2024 graduates!

Happy Holidays and stay safe!

Announcements, Room Selection, Save the Date

Fall 2025 – Spring 2026 Housing Applications / Room Selection Process

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Important On-Campus Dates

November 25, 2024

Online application (including housing deposit) and roommate matching opens in the MyHousing account for Returning Students.

February 4 – 5, 2025

Shenks Hall Room Selection

February 7– 10, 2025

Same Room Selection

February 12 – 14, 2025

Single-Suite in Villages Room Selection

February 17 – March 7, 2025

Open Room Selection

 

Important Off-Campus Dates 

January 30, 2025

Off-campus application opens in the MyHousing Account for students with over 60 credits for Fall 2025.

February 1, 2025

UHCS will begin to process off-campus applications for students with over 60 credits.

March 7, 2025

Off-campus application temporarily closes due to scheduled campus software integration.

March 20, 2025

Off-campus application opens for all students, including under 60 credits. Students can also not submit commuter requests.

Summer 2025

UCHS will determine availability of Student Lodging (SLI) waivers for students with 30 – 59 credits and and start to process these applications.

 

Definitions:

On-Campus: On-campus housing is defined as residing in one of the following residence halls: Bard Hall, East Village, Shenks Hall, South Village, and West Village.

Off-Campus: Properties owned by Student Lodging, Inc. (SLI) and other student housing options within the community.

Commuter: Students residing with a parent or court-appointed legal guardian at that person’s permanent home address who is commuting fewer than 40 miles one way. A notarized statement and supplemental statement are required.

For further information, please refer to the Millersville University Housing Residency Requirement policy.

Room Selection for the Fall 2025 – Spring 2026 academic year will start in the spring semester. Students living on-campus will need to complete the following processes to participate:

Pre-Room Selection Process

As returning MU students, you will be able to select your own room for next year. To be able to participate, you must pay the $200.00 housing deposit and complete the Returning Student Housing Application: “RETURNING STUDENTS_HousingApplication_2025-2026.” (Please note, it will state “Spring 2026” term next to it as the application is for the entire 2025-26 academic year.)

  • To complete the housing application, you will log into your MyHousing Account. In your MyHousing account, you click on the Applications tab and complete the “RETURNING STUDENTS_HousingApplication_2025-2026.” You will need to complete the application to be eligible to participate in the room selection process.
  • You will pay the housing deposit in the housing application. Once you have completed the housing application, you will receive an email confirming the application was completed.

You can also select roommates by logging into your MyHousing Account. Once logged in, select the Roommate Selection tab and Select Roommates. For the term, choose Fall 2025 and you can then search for a roommate by first and last name. When you find your roommate, you will select them by clicking the Request Roommate option under the name. Please make sure you only select the number of roommates you want for the room type your looking for:

  • For a single suite, you can only select one (1) roommate as single suites are for two (2) students.
  • For a double suite, you can only select three (3) roommates as double suites are for four (4) students.
  • For same room selection, you cannot have any roommates selected as you can only select your same room (if that room is an available option for next year).

Room Selection Options

The room selection process will officially start on February 4, 2025

  • February 4 – February 5, 2025: Shenks Hall Room Selection
  • February 7 – February 10, 2025: Same Room Selection
  • February 12 – February 14, 2025: Single-Suite Room Selection in the Villages
  • February 17 – March 7, 2025: Open room selection in any hall for returning/current students.

Shenks Room Selection

This is room selection for students who wish to live in Shenks Hall, which is used primarily for returning students.

Same Room Selection

This is for students who currently live on campus and wish to live in the same room they are currently in for next fall. Please note that some rooms may not be available to be selected again based on different facility uses and rooms reserved for certain living-learning community (LLC) programs. Remember, to participate in the Same Room Selection, you cannot request a roommate. A current suitemate group that wishes to live together again must each pick separately.

Single Suite Room Selection

This is room selection for students who wish to live in single suites (i.e., suite with two (2) bedrooms and a shared bathroom for two (2) students). A limited number of single suites will be available for selection.

Open Room Selection

This is when you can select any room that is available in any of the residence halls, including Bard Hall.

Please remember that if you do not plan to live on-campus for the Fall 2025 – Spring 2026 term, you must be approved to live off-campus. To submit an off-campus request, log into your MyHousing Account and complete the “Fall 2025 Off-Campus Request” Application located in the Applications tab.

OFF-CAMPUS WAIVER FAQS

Below are frequently asked questions and their answers related to the off-campus waiver process to help you plan accordingly for the 2025-26 academic year.

Should I apply for on-campus housing for 2025-26 academic year?

If you are returning to Millersville University for the 2025-26 academic year and are not eligible for a 60+ credit waiver, you should apply to secure campus housing.

I will not have 60 earned credits until I finish the spring 2025 semester. Can I still apply for a waiver?

Yes. University Housing & Conference Services (UHSC) takes into consideration the anticipated number of credits that you will earn for the spring 2025 semester. Keep in mind that you can become ineligible if you decide to withdraw from or fail courses that will put you under the 60-credit mark by the end of the spring 2025 semester.

What if my friends I want to live with have 60+ credits and are approved, but I only have 30-59 earned credits?

Decisions regarding the availability for off-campus waivers for students with between 30 -59 credits will be determined in the summer of 2025. Additionally, those with 30-59 earned credits who are granted a waiver may only reside in Student Lodging, Inc. (SLI) communities and not elsewhere off-campus.

Some of my intended roommates and I have received a 60+ credit waiver, but one (or more) have only have 30 – 59 earned credits. What should we do?

Students with only 30 – 59 earned credits are not guaranteed a waiver. You should proceed accordingly assuming that your friend may not be granted a waiver. It is recommended that you make off-campus roommate arrangements with students who do have a 60+ earned credit waiver.

If I do not have the required credit hours to move off campus, can I take summer classes to get the needed credits?

You may do so if this will place you at a level of 60 or more earned credits prior to the start of the fall semester.

What if I already signed a lease somewhere other than Student Lodging, Inc. (SLI)?

You may only sign a lease somewhere other than Student Lodging, Inc. (SLI) if you have acquired a 60+ earned credit waiver and are approved by our office.

I received a waiver last year but never used it, can I use it this year?

No. You must apply for a waiver each year.

Can I transfer my waiver to someone else?

No. Waivers are not transferrable to other students.

If 30 – 59 credit waivers for SLI are granted, how are they chosen?

Waivers will be granted in sequential order by the date and time of the “Fall 2025 off-campus request application” until the number of waivers available are exhausted. Waivers granted for those 30 – 59 earned credits will not be based upon any intended apartment roommate arrangements that you may have.

If I do not know if I will be granted a 30 – 59 credit waiver, do I have to live on campus for the summer?

Students are not required to live on campus during the summer months but may do so.

Is there an appeal process for those students with 30 – 59 credits who were denied a waiver?

No. All decisions are final.

Announcements

Join the Student Dining Service Committee

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Dining Services is looking for students interested in joining the Student Dining Service Committee. This is a fantastic opportunity to have your voice heard and work directly with the management team to improve the dining experience on campus.

Committee Details

· Meetings: Once a month

· Purpose: Discuss student needs, concerns, suggestions for improvements, and provide general feedback about dining services.

· Opportunity: Collaborate with Dining Services management to share ideas, offer suggestions, and help shape the future of dining services!

If you’re passionate about enhancing the dining experience for all students and want to be part of the decision-making process, this is your chance to get involved!

If you’re interested or have any questions, please contact:

Daryl Matthews

Director of University Dining and Catering Services

Email: daryl.matthews@millersville.edu

Phone: 717-871-7591

We look forward to hearing from you and working together to make a positive impact on campus dining!

Announcements, Events / Programs

Resident Assistant Application for 2025-2026 is Now Available

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The Department of University Housing and Conference Services is seeking qualified students to join our team as Resident Assistants (RAs) for the 2025-2026 academic year.

The Resident Assistant position is a great way to build leadership skills, serve as a mentor, and work closely with other RAs as a team. Students selected to be RAs receive a residence hall room at no cost, an academic year stipend, and parking pass.

If you are interested in the position, please complete the Resident Assistant 2025-2026 interest form below:

Microsoft Forms

No Description

To learn more about the requirements and details about the RA position, we have information sessions available the following dates and times. You should attend one (1) information session for your application to be considered.

11/14/24       11:30am – 12 pm                   SMC 204

11/14/24       8pm – 8:30 pm                         South Village Great Room

11/19/24      11 am – 11:30 am                   SMC 204

11/21/24       8 am –  8:30 pm                       South Village Great Room

12/4/24         4 pm – 4:30 pm                           South Village Great Room

01/22/25         3 pm – 3:30 pm                        South Village Great Room

01/26/25         7pm – 7:30 pm                         South Village Great Room

01/27/25         11:30 am – 1 pm                    SMC Tables

The Resident Assistant Application will close promptly at 7pm on Wednesday, January 29, 2025.

If you have any questions, please just email Matthew Rutkoski. Additionally, we also encourage you to reach out to your current Resident Assistant if you want to learn more about the position.

Announcements

Residence Hall Thanksgiving Break 2024 Bulletin

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Thanksgiving Break will begin at 10 pm on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, after night classes. All students planning to stay for Thanksgiving Break must register by completing the “Break_Thanksgiving_2024 Application” that is in your MyHousing Account. There is no additional cost to stay over the break, but you must apply to be approved. All students that apply to stay are approved and you will receive an email confirmation once you have completed the application. The application will close at 10 pm on Monday, November 25, 2024. Students not staying for Thanksgiving Break can return to the halls starting at 12 pm on Sunday, December 1, 2024.

To complete the application, follow these instructions:

  1. Log into your MAX Account
  2. Select Student Services
  3. Select Housing & Dining
  4. Select MyHousing
  5. In your MyHousing Account, go to the Applications tab on the left side and complete the “Break_Thanksgiving_2024 Application.”
  6. Once you complete the application, you will receive an email stating that your application was completed.

The Residence Hall Staff may conduct Health and Safety Inspections in each residence hall suite at the start of the Thanksgiving break. Please carefully review the following instructions and information to avoid violations of the Student Code of Conduct for improper maintenance of your residence hall suite/room.

Thanksgiving Break Housing Information:

  • All University Administrative Offices will be closed on Thursday, November 28, 2024, and Friday, November 29, 2024.
  • Guests visitation is not permitted during the break. Guest visitation will end at 4 pm on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. Students will be permitted to sign in guests again starting at 12 pm on Sunday, December 1, 2024.
  • Residence Hall Offices will have limited hours of operation during the break – see front desk for contact information.
  • See the Dining Services , Health Services, The Hub websites for hours of operation.
  • The Housekeeping and Facilities Management Staffs may be working in the campus residence halls to perform maintenance tasks during the break that require entrance to resident rooms.

Thanksgiving Break Preparation Procedures:

Prior to the start of the break, all resident students MUST:

  • Dispose of all trash by removing it to the dumpster in the parking lots outside your residence hall.
  • Clean your room/suite, including sweeping the floor and wiping down furniture.
  • Clean your bathroom and report any issues with constant run toilets, sinks, and showers to the residence hall staff.
  • Remove stale food from your refrigerator and properly dispose of it through proper trash removal.
  • If you are leaving for the break, turn off the lights.
  • If you are leaving for the break, set the thermostat to 72 degrees.
  • If you are leaving for the break, close and lock your room window (Villages).
  • If you are leaving for the break, lower the blinds halfway, but leave them open.
  • If you are leaving for the break, lock your bedroom door and your suite door.
  • If you are leaving for the break, please move all items from your residence hall floor, especially computer equipment and any items that can be damaged by flooding.
  • If you are leaving for the break and you have a Learning Services approved animal in your room, you MUST take the animal with you. You MAY NOT leave animals in the residence hall in the care of another student or staff member.

Have a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving Break!

Announcements

Join Our Team as Event Staff with Millersville University’s Office of Conference Services!

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Do you have a passion for events and a desire to help create unforgettable experiences? Or are you simply looking for employment at MU during the school year and / or summer? Millersville University’s Office of Conference Services (OCS) is seeking enthusiastic student staff to support the coordination of events, from conferences and tournaments to outdoor camps. Join our team and gain hands-on experience in event management, leadership, and customer service.

Your Role:

  • Act as the on-site manager, ensuring each event runs smoothly.
  • Assist with event setup, guest relations, and troubleshooting to ensure a successful experience.
  • Lead a small team of event staff, coordinating with university departments for seamless execution.
  • Oversee logistics and enforce safety protocols to maintain an organized, secure environment.
  • Serve as a Millersville University ambassador, delivering exceptional service and support to all attendees.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

  • Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills.
  • Demonstrate the ability to collaborate effectively and foster positive working relationships with team members.
  • Adaptable, quick problem-solvers who thrive in a fast-paced environment.
  • Availability during the academic year is important, with a strong preference for evenings and weekends.
  • Summer availability is essential, given that it is our busiest season. Nonetheless, housing and dining accommodations may be offered to individuals hired for the summer camps and conference season. 
  • Preferred qualifications include management experience, access to a vehicle, and prior experience in customer service or events.

Ready to contribute to exciting events while building valuable skills? Apply to join the OCS team today! This role offers more than just a paycheck—it’s an opportunity to make a difference, develop professionally, and create unforgettable moments for others.

Below are a few examples of events at MU that the OCS organizes and manages.

3 Legacies Wrestling:

Girls on the Run:

Local Science Fair:

If you are interested in this role, please apply here:

https://jobs.millersville.edu/postings/12294

Questions can be directed to Michael Kurland, Assistant Director of Conference Services, at (717) 871-5938 or Michael.Kurland@millersville.edu.

Announcements

Protect Your Space: Safe Shower Storage Options to Prevent Plumbing Issues

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At Millersville University, we strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and well-maintained environment for all our residents. Recently, we’ve noticed a recurring issue with plumbing leaks in residence hall showers, often caused by heavy, hanging shower racks. These racks, when overloaded with large bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, can damage the plumbing behind the shower walls, leading to leaks, costly repairs, and significant disruptions.
Why Hanging Racks Cause Problems
Hanging shower racks, especially when overloaded, exert significant pressure on the shower fixtures, potentially damaging the plumbing lines behind the wall. This type of damage not only disrupts your living space but can also affect neighboring rooms and require extensive repair work. In severe cases, water damage may necessitate drywall repair and water remediation, which can displace you and your suitemates for extended periods. This process is not only inconvenient but can also disrupt your daily routines and comfort.
Recommended Alternatives
To help you keep your shower organized and prevent these issues, here are some convenient and practical shower storage options that don’t compromise the plumbing:
  1. Suction-Based Caddies: These caddies attach securely to the shower wall using strong suction cups, making them ideal for holding heavier items like shampoo and conditioner. They can be easily repositioned if needed, allowing for flexibility.

2. Corner Tension Pole Caddies: Designed to fit in the corner of the shower, these tension pole organizers have multiple adjustable shelves for storing various shower essentials. They don’t rely on the shower fixtures for support, which minimizes any risk to plumbing.
3.Over-the-Curtain Rod Shower Caddies: These caddies hang over the curtain rod, keeping items accessible without adding pressure to the plumbing fixtures. However, it’s important to avoid overloading them, as excessive weight can cause strain on the curtain rod and potentially damage it. They are a great option if you need extra storage without attaching anything directly to the shower wall, but be mindful of the weight limit to ensure durability and safety.
4. Shower Shelves with Adhesive Strips: Lightweight and durable, these shelves use strong adhesive strips to stay in place on smooth shower walls. They’re perfect for storing smaller items and can be removed without leaving marks.
Each of these options is easy to install, keeps your shower essentials organized, and prevents any strain on the shower fixtures.
Avoid Charges and Inconvenience with Proper Storage
Please remember that any damage caused by overloaded hanging racks could result in repair charges and, in some cases, may lead to temporary suite displacements for you and your suitemates. By using recommended storage options, you can help prevent these issues, avoid potential costs, and maintain a comfortable, uninterrupted living space.
Thank you for helping us maintain a safe and enjoyable residential experience for everyone. If you have any questions or need guidance on safe storage solutions, please reach out to your building staff.
Advice, Health & Wellness

Safe and Spooky: Halloween Tips for College Students

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Halloween is a beloved time of year for college students, filled with costumes, parties, and plenty of treats. However, amid the fun and festivities, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Remember, at Millersville, we look out for each other; it is part of our culture. Whether you’re planning to attend a themed party or just hang out with friends, here are some essential Halloween safety tips to ensure your celebration at Millersville University is both safe and spooky!

1. Plan Your Costumes Wisely (and Respectfully)

When choosing a costume, consider practicality and safety. Ensure that your outfit is comfortable and allows for easy movement, especially if you’ll be walking around campus or attending parties. Avoid costumes that obstruct your vision or make it difficult to walk, such as oversized accessories or long capes. If you plan to wear a mask, consider opting for one with ample visibility to help you navigate safely.

Additionally, it’s essential to be respectful when selecting your costume. Avoid outfits that appropriate or stereotype cultures, as this can be offensive and disrespectful to others. Instead, consider costumes that celebrate creativity and fun without perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Engage with your friends about their costume choices and encourage an open dialogue about cultural sensitivity. This way, you can enjoy Halloween while fostering a respectful and inclusive environment for everyone on campus. Halloween can be equally EPPIIC and fun!

2. Stay Visible and Safe While Walking

As the days get shorter, visibility becomes a concern, especially if you’re walking after dark. Wear bright colors or reflective accessories to ensure you’re seen by others. Consider carrying a flashlight or using your phone’s flashlight feature when walking between buildings or to off-campus locations. Always stick to well-lit pathways, and don’t hesitate to use MUPD’s Police Escort Service or the SafeWalk option in the LiveSafe app if you feel uneasy about your surroundings. Be sure to have the LiveSafe app on your phone. Students can follow the MU Police Instagram account for Uber vouchers on Halloween.

3. Celebrate Responsibly

Halloween often comes with its share of parties and gatherings, but it’s important to drink responsibly if you choose to consume alcohol. Set a limit for yourself before you start partying and stick to it. Keep track of your drinks, and never leave your beverage unattended. If you’re going out with friends, establish a buddy system to ensure everyone gets home safely. Designate a sober friend to be your driver or use rideshare services if needed.

4. Know Your Limits

Halloween can be a busy night with numerous events happening on campus and in the surrounding areas. While it’s tempting to try to attend every party, listen to your body and know your limits. Make sure to get enough rest, stay hydrated, and take breaks when necessary. It’s better to enjoy a few events fully than to exhaust yourself trying to do it all.

5. Keep Your Living Space Secure

If you’re hosting a Halloween gathering, be mindful of security. Lock your doors and windows, and ensure that any guests you invite are someone you trust. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight and consider using a designated area for coats and bags. After the party, do a quick check to ensure nothing is left behind that might attract unwanted attention.

6. Be Mindful of Your Social Media Presence

In today’s digital age, sharing your Halloween adventures on social media is common. However, be cautious about what you post, especially regarding location tags and personal information. Avoid sharing sensitive details about your whereabouts, particularly if you’re attending parties at unfamiliar locations. Maintain privacy settings on your profiles and be mindful of the content you’re sharing.

7. Have Fun, But Stay Aware

Finally, the most important tip for Halloween is to have fun! Embrace the spirit of the holiday, enjoy the costumes, and indulge in all the treats. However, always stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to remove yourself from the situation.

No one has to do everything, but everyone has to do something. Halloween is a great opportunity to engage in both reactive and proactive “Green Dots” to ensure our campus remains a safe space that does not tolerate violence. A Green Dot is a behavior, choice, or action that promotes safety for everyone. The goal of the Green Dot program is to implement a bystander intervention strategy that prevents and reduces power-based personal violence. This includes sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.

What is your Green Dot? Will you choose to Direct, Delegate, or Distract? Make a plan before you go out. Think through some scenarios you might encounter and how you will handle them.

Halloween is a time for celebration, creativity, and community. By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your Halloween at Millersville University is not only enjoyable but also secure. So, put on your best costume, gather your friends, and get ready for a fun and safe Halloween!

A special “Halloween thanks!” to MUPD Chief Anders, Deputy Chief Bauman, and CHEP Director Margo Thowart for contributing to this post! 

Academics, Advice, Lifestyle / Hall Life

How to Stay Focused on Your Goals Mid-Semester at Millersville University

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It is official: we have now reached the halfway point in the semester. Unfortunately, this is when students tend to feel overwhelmed or lose focus. However, staying motivated is key to finishing strong. Below are several strategies to help you stay on track and maintain your momentum through the second half of the semester:

1. Reevaluate and Set New Goals

  • Assess Your Progress: Take time to reflect on the goals you set at the beginning of the semester. What have you accomplished so far, and what needs more attention?
  • Break Down Large Goals: If your original goals seem daunting, break them into smaller, manageable tasks. Achieving these smaller milestones will give you a sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue.
  • Set SMART Goals: Make sure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART). This ensures clarity and provides a clear roadmap to success.

2. Create or Refresh Your Study Plan

  • Time Block Your Schedule: Organize your remaining weeks by assigning dedicated time for studying, assignments, and personal activities. Sticking to a schedule helps reduce procrastination.
  • Prioritize Tasks by Deadline and Importance: Focus first on upcoming deadlines or major projects, but also make sure to carve out time for ongoing study and review sessions.
  • Use a Planner or Digital Tools: Apps like Google Calendar, Trello, or Notion can help you track your progress and maintain accountability. Regularly check your planner and adjust it as needed to stay organized.

3. Utilize University Housing Resources

  • Access Study Spaces: Take advantage of quiet areas or common study rooms in the residence halls’ common areas. A change of scenery from your room can boost productivity.
  • Attend Stress-Relief Activities: Mid-semester stress is common, and MU offers offers many wellness programs and other events designed to help students unwind. Balance between study and relaxation is essential for maintaining motivation.

4. Build a Support System

  • Form Study Partnerships: Reach out to roommates or classmates to form study groups. Discussing material with others can improve understanding and keep you engaged.
  • Stay Connected with Mentors or Advisors: If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, schedule a check-in with a professor, academic advisor, or your resident assistant (RA). They can offer guidance, help refocus your efforts, and provide useful resources.
  • Communicate with Roommates: Set clear boundaries with roommates when it comes to study time, and try to minimize distractions in shared living spaces.

5. Practice Self-Care

  • Prioritize Sleep and Nutrition: A well-rested and nourished body is more focused and productive. Avoid all-night cramming sessions by planning study blocks that allow for adequate sleep.
  • Exercise Regularly: Physical activity is a great way to relieve stress and reset your mind. Use on-campus facilities or get outdoors for a quick walk or workout.
  • Incorporate Breaks: Use the Pomodoro Technique (work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break) to keep yourself refreshed and prevent burnout.

6. Focus on the Big Picture

  • Visualize Success: Remind yourself of the long-term benefits of your hard work, such as passing your exams, achieving high grades, or preparing for future career opportunities.
  • Celebrate Small Wins: Reward yourself for completing tasks, whether it’s a small treat, taking time for a favorite hobby, or enjoying a night off after a productive day.

7. Stay Positive and Flexible

  • Accept Setbacks: It’s normal to face challenges, but don’t let them derail your progress. Adjust your goals or plans as needed without losing sight of the end goal.
  • Practice a Growth Mindset: Embrace the idea that challenges are opportunities to learn and grow, rather than obstacles to success. A positive attitude will keep you motivated during tough times.
You can finish all of your classes strong! You’ve already put in so much effort. With just a bit more focus and determination, you can end this semester on a high note. The second half of the semester is your opportunity to build on your progress, improve where needed, and achieve the goals you set out to accomplish. Keep up the good work, stay focused, and remember that every step forward brings you closer to success. You’ve got this!
Announcements

Residence Hall Fall Break 2024 Bulletin

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Fall Break will start at 5pm on Friday, October 11, 2024. All students planning to stay for Fall Break must register by completing the “Break_Fall_2024” Application that is in your MyHousing Account. For Fall Break, all students that apply to stay are approved. The application closes at 10 p.m. on Thursday, October 10, 2024.  Fall Break ends and classes start again on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.

The Residence Hall Staff may conduct Health and Safety Inspections in each residence hall suite during the fall break. Please carefully review the following instructions and information to avoid violations of the Student Code of Conduct for improper maintenance of your residence hall suite/room.

Fall Break Housing Information:

  • The residence halls will be operational during the fall break.
  • University Administrative Offices will be open during fall break during regular business hours.
  • There is no guest visitation during Fall Break. All guests will need to be signed out of the halls before 5 p.m. on Friday, October 11, 2024. Guest visitation will start back up at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.
  • Residence Hall Offices will have hours of operation during the break – see front desk for contact information.
  • See Dining Services and Health Services websites for hours of operation. Please note, all dining services will be closed from Saturday, October 12, 2024 – Monday, October 14, 2024 due to facility repairs.
  • The Housekeeping and Facilities Management teams may be working in the campus residence halls to perform maintenance tasks during the break that require entrance to resident rooms.

Fall Break Preparation Procedures:

Prior to the start of the break, all resident students leaving MUST:

  • Dispose of all trash by removing it to the dumpsters in the parking lots outside your residence hall.
  • Clean the room/suite including sweeping the floor and wiping down furniture.
  • Clean your bathroom and report any issues with constant run toilets, sinks, showers to the residence hall staff.
  • Remove stale food from your refrigerator and properly dispose of it through proper trash removal
  • If you are leaving for the break, turn off the lights
  • If you are leaving for the break, set the thermostat to 72 degrees
  • If you are leaving for the break, close and lock your room window (Villages)
  • If you are leaving for the break, lower the blinds halfway but leave them open
  • If you are leaving for the break, lock your bedroom door and your suite door
  • If you are leaving for the break and you have a Learning Services approved animal in your room, you must take the animal with you. You may not leave animals in the residence hall in the care of another student or staff member.

Please consult your residence hall staff should you have any specific questions. Have a safe and enjoyable Fall Break!

 

717-871-4200 | housing@millersville.edu