Spring Cleaning and Decluttering for College Students

Is your residence halls suites messy as a result of leaving and returning from spring break? Do you have extra clothing that you want to get rid of, does not fit anymore, is worn out, or has gone out of style? Here is a list of things you can add to your spring to-do list. You can even print this out and check things off as you go, as that may be a more productive way of doing things. 

Closet Decluttering:
First, make a yes and no pile. Then, put the no pile in a garbage bag to transport to local clothing donation spots. Local locations include, Plato’s Closet, Goodwill, and CommunityAid. If that is not an option, you can even have a yard sale while you are at home and make some extra cash for the semester! Selling on eBay and Facebook Marketplace are also two easy ways to get rid of unwanted items in a sustainable way. 

Cleaning Your Residence Hall Room:
Deep cleaning may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of spring. Having a fresh bedroom and bathroom for the spring season can make your life feel more tidy. Having a simple routine can include cleaning bathrooms, floors, under your bed, inside the refrigerator, and the microwave. Inexpensive cleaning products can be purchased at any grocery or big box retail store. Remember, NEVER mix liquid bleach and cleanser because it will create a dangerous chemical reaction. 

Build a Capsule Wardrobe: According to Wikipedia, “A capsule wardrobe is a minimalist collection of clothes that can be put together in different ways to cover a variety of outfits and occasions.” Find outfits that you can style in multiple different ways. For example, buy plain colored shirts and pants with added accessories. That way you can minimize buying new clothing each year and save yourself money in the process. 

Reduce Trash: Using reusable water bottles, keeping food in reusable containers so it stays fresh for longer, creating rags out of old t-shirts for cleaning instead of paper towels, and using reusable bags is a great way to reduce trash and be more sustainable. 

Maximizing Storage: Adding storage under your bed and in your closet will make your room look less cluttered. Buying storage containers is an easy way to maximize your space. Plastic and fabric containers can be purchased through various online retailers at big box stores, and even at local hardware stores. 

Keep in mind that these are strategies you can use in times other than the spring. Make your living situation and habits easier with these ideas. What are some ideas that you have for spring cleaning and decluttering that you do? Share in the comments below or reply to our accompanying Instagram post. 

 

 

6 Tips for Enhancing Your Mental Health

Mental health is something that is brought to students’ attention. Realizing that you need to take a break, relax, and do more of what makes you happy and more relaxed is important. Here is a list of things that can help you focus more on your mental health. 

Plant a garden:
Planting flowers or fruits and vegetables at home is a great way to dive into the spring vibes. Flowers are always very colorful and can bring life to your yard or your room. If you go home, you could spend time with friends and family planting flowers. 

Read books:
Finding good books to read, laying outside, and relaxing is something that is so easy, but yet overlooked too often. You could also swap books with friends. For example, each person buys a book and then, after reading, they swap it so they can enjoy the same book. 

Go to your closest coffee shop:
Finding a coffee shop that is close to you that you can visit is a convenient way to destress. Simply reading, spending time with friends, or just grabbing coffee by yourself is something that is very therapeutic and simple. The environment in coffee shops is something that many college students enjoy. 

Watch movies:
Going on streaming platforms, like Netflix or Hulu for example, can be a great inexpensive night with friends and family. You can find a lot of new movies that were recently released, such as, comedies, romance, horror, documentaries, and other genres. 

Exercising:
Going to your local gym or even taking a walk outside of your neighborhood is a healthy way to get your mind off of stress. For example, walking a dog, stretching beforehand, listening to music, and putting your phone on “do not disturb” are great ways to establish an exercise routine. 

Puzzles:
Assembling jigsaw puzzles is really beneficial for your brain and lets you relax in peace and quiet. This activity also lets you put down your phone for awhile. It is easy to find inexpensive puzzles at Walmart, Target and Amazon. Also, you can give a puzzle to a friend once you have completed it. 

Once again,  do not forget to take breaks during the remainder of the semester. This is a great way to focus on your mental health and overall wellness. What is something you do to relax and enhance your own mental health? Please leave a comment below or reply to our accompanying Instagram post!

Questions for Housing Selection Process 2024-2025

Have questions about the Housing Selection Process for 2024-2025?

Stop into the University Housing and Conference Services Office in the Lombardo Welcome Center during any of these times to speak with Mr. Matthew Rutkoski.

  • Monday February 19th: 3- 4 pm
  • Tuesday February 20th: 9:30 – 10:30 am
  • Wednesday February 21st: 2 – 3 pm
  • Friday February 23rd: 10 – 11 am
  • Monday February 26th: 3:30 – 4:30 pm

Can’t make it during these times? Please email Mr. Rutkoski to schedule a different time.

Residence Hall Spring Break Bulletin 2024

Please review all the information below regarding Spring Break:

Spring Break for the residence halls will begin at 10pm on Friday, March 1, 2024, after night classes. All students planning to stay for Spring Break must register by completing the “Spring Break 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 5pm on Thursday, February 29, 2024. Students not staying for Spring Break can return to the halls starting at 12 noon on Sunday, March 10, 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 “Spring Break 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 Spring 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.

Spring Break Housing Information
· Guests and Visitation is not permitted during the break. Guest visitation will start back up at 12noon on Sunday, March 10, 2024.
· All University Administrative Offices will be open during the break
· Residence Hall Offices will have limited hours of operation during the break – see front desk for contact information.
· See Dining Services , Health Services, The Hub websites for hours of operation
· Students are not required to surrender residence hall keys to the staff prior to leaving for the break.
· 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.

Spring 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 70 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 Spring Break!

Continue reading Residence Hall Spring Break Bulletin 2024

Wi-Fi Help for Residence Halls: Meet Our Apogee ResNet Tech

Are you a student who lives in the residence halls here at Millersville University and need help with Wi-Fi? If so, there are staff and resources here to help you. 

Will Williams is a CompTIA Network+ Certified Network Technician who works for Apogee, the company that provides the Wi-Fi service to the residence halls. He is responsible for maintaining the ResNet Wi-Fi service at Millersville University. We interviewed him about topics that students should know about the network in the residence hall and also to provide a little personal information about himself. 



Tell me a little about yourself?
I am a complete nerd. I love technology, finance, and video games. I am studying to become a Network Engineer.

How can students in the residence halls obtain help for internet-related issues they may be experiencing?
Support is available 24/7 for students. Call 833-548-7747 for support or go to millersville.apogee.us for more support options.

What advice do you have for students in the residence halls to stay successful with their tech in the halls?
If you have an iPhone or iPad, turn the “Private Wi-Fi Address” setting off. Instructions can be found online for how to turn off this setting or call us and we can help. This setting can cause connection issues if it’s not turned off.

What do you like most about Millersville University?
The students and staff here have all been very friendly and welcoming. I get the privilege to work alongside a university staff that takes a ton of ownership and wants what’s best for the university.


We’re glad to have Will here as a part of our Millersville University community and thank him for his dedication! Please make sure to give him a warm Marauder “Hello!” if he ever helps you with a service request. 

Sustainability in the Residence Halls

Sustainability within the confines of university residence halls can seem like a daunting challenge, especially for those just beginning their journey towards a more eco-conscious lifestyle. As a senior with years of campus living under my belt, I’ve navigated these waters and compiled a list of strategies that have not only made a positive impact on the environment but also enriched my college experience. This guide is designed to assist both incoming students and those already residing with us in embracing sustainability in their daily lives.

1. Embrace the Culture of Donation: Clothing clutter tends to accumulate in residence halls, leading to unnecessary waste. Before resorting to the trash bin, consider donating gently used items. Local charities such as Community Aid, Good Will, and the Water Street Mission are always in need of donations. By doing so, you not only declutter your space but also contribute to a circular economy, supporting those in need within your community.

2. Innovative Water Conservation: We’ve all let the shower run to warm up, watching precious water go down the drain. A simple yet effective solution is to catch this water in a bucket for later use. This water can hydrate your indoor plants, which leads to the next point: invest in greenery. Plants not only beautify your space and improve air quality but also serve as a daily reminder of our connection to the environment. Plus, tending to them can be a great stress reliever during exam periods.

3. Active Environmental Stewardship: Participate in or organize campus cleanup events. A leisurely stroll with the added purpose of picking up litter can significantly enhance the beauty and health of your campus environment. This small act of responsibility fosters a culture of respect for nature among the student body. Campus clean-ups include: Conestoga Outdoors Club.

4. Reduce Single-Use Plastic: The convenience of plastic water bottles is undeniable, but their environmental impact is severe. Opting for a reusable water bottle, complemented by a water filtration system like a Brita filter, not only reduces plastic waste but also saves money in the long run. This simple change in habit can lead to a significant reduction in the environmental footprint of our residence halls.

5. Energy Conservation: Mindful energy usage is crucial for sustainability. Making a habit of turning off lights and unplugging electronic devices when not in use can lead to substantial energy savings. This practice not only benefits the planet but also encourages a mindful lifestyle, reminding us of the impact our daily choices have on the world.

6. Expanding Your Sustainability Knowledge: Beyond these practical tips, educating oneself about environmental issues is fundamental. Engage with campus organizations focused on sustainability or environmental stewardship. These groups provide valuable opportunities for learning, activism, and connecting with like-minded individuals. They often host events, workshops, and campaigns that can broaden your understanding of global environmental challenges and how you can contribute to solutions. Examples include: Sustainability Club 

7. Reusing Items in Innovative Ways: Taking old t-shirts and cutting them to make rags for cleaning, so you can reduce the amount of paper towels you use in your residence halls. Or using glass containers that previously had food in them and making those pots for plants to grow. You can also use these as a container to hold makeup, brushes, and other household items. When we reuse items, it helps keep those items out of the landfills. It is also helps you save money, so you do not have to buy additional items!

In conclusion, embracing sustainability in the residence halls is not only about reducing our environmental impact; it’s also about cultivating a sense of community, responsibility, and personal growth. By integrating these practices into our daily lives, we can collectively contribute to a more sustainable future, both on campus and beyond. Let’s lead by example, inspiring others to join us in this vital cause.

Fall 2024-Spring 2025 Room Selection/Housing Applications

Definitions:

On-Campus: On-campus housing is defined as residing in one of the following residence halls: 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 2024 – Spring 2025 academic year will be starting in the new few weeks. In preparation for this, students living on-campus will need to do the following to be able to participate.

Pre-Room Selection Process

As returning 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_2024-2025.”

To complete the housing application, you will log into your MyHousing Account. In your MyHousing account, you will click the Applications tab and complete the “RETURNING STUDENTS_HousingApplication_2024-2025.” 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 go ahead and select roommates by logging into your MyHousing Account. Once logged in, select the Roommate Selection tab and Select Roommates. For the term, choose Fall 2024 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 (1) roommate as single suites are for two (2) students.
  • For a double suite, you can only select (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 option for next year).

    Room Selection Options
    The room selection process will officially start on March 14, 2024.

    March 14 – March 15, 2024: Shenks Hall Room Selection
    March 18 – March 19, 2024: Same Room Selection
    March 21 – March 22, 2024: Single-Suite Room Selection in the Villages
    March 25 – April 15, 2024: 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. Shenks Hall 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 LLC programs. Remember, to participate in this 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 (room with 2 bedrooms and a shared bathroom for 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.

    Please remember that if you do not plan to live on-campus for the Fall 2024 – Spring 2025 term, you must be approved to live off-campus. To submit an off-campus request, you would log into your MyHousing Account and complete the “Fall 2024 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 2024-25 academic year.

Should I apply for on-campus housing for 2024-25 academic year?

If you are returning to Millersville University for the 2024-25 academic year and 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 2024 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 2024 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 2023 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 2024. 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.

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 of “Fall 2024 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.


Tips for success during Final exams.

Greetings, Marauders. Final exams are approaching swiftly, and it will soon be time to put your efforts to the test. While it may be challenging to stay focused and motivated with a heavy course load, maintaining a healthy mindset will guide you on the right path.

Here are three essential practices to enhance your performance in your final exams.

1. Studying in your most effective learning style, tailored to your own preferences, will be very accommodating. Your learning style is the way you best absorb information in an educational setting, whether it’s auditory, visual, or hands-on learning. Being aware of your preferred learning style will not only make it easier for you to retain information but will also benefit you during exams, presentations, projects, or any form of assessment.

2. Ensure you get plenty of rest and prioritize self-care. While studying is crucial, taking care of yourself is also essential. Remember to get adequate rest, practice self-care, and stay hydrated to perform at your best when the time comes to apply yourself during the exams.

3. Seeking help and assistance will propel you forward. Having an honest conversation with your professor or academic advisor is always encouraged. Your advisor and professors were once undergraduate students themselves, so gaining an additional perspective can be very helpful. Your professor has also developed the materials you are being tested on; therefore, they are the best source for addressing any questions and aiding in your studies.

Final exams represent the culmination of your hard work, reflecting a true representation of your studies. These three tips aim to guide all of you in the right direction as the final week of classes approaches on December 7th, 2023. We at UHCS congratulate all of you for your hard work and making this Fall 2023 Semester one to remember. Best wishes on all of your final exams.

Residence Hall Winter Break 2023-2024 Bulletin

1. Winter break housing will start at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 9, 2023. The residence halls will be closed during winter break. Resident students who are continuing in the residence halls to spring 2024 may request break housing for all or portions of the winter break by completing the “Break_Winter_2023-23 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 4pm on Thursday, December 7, 2023. The residence halls will reopen for the spring semester at 12 noon on Sunday, January 14, 2024.

2. Students that are graduating or working graduation on Saturday, December 9 are permitted to stay, but must be checked out of the residence hall before 6pm on Saturday, December 9, 2023.  You must email your Residential Area Director (RAD) to receive permission to stay till 6pm on Saturday, December 9, 2023. The University Housing and Conference Services Office will confirm with the Registrar’s Office students who have requested to stay due to graduating. 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 2024 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 not returning or are thinking of not returning to Millersville University for the spring semester 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 properly check out will result in your being billed.

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

Shenks Hall – 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_2023-24Application”.
  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 1, 2023, 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.
  • See Dining ServicesHealth ServicesSMC, 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 2024 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 hall for fall 2023 are automatically assigned to continue in the residence halls for spring 2024 unless you have filed an official withdrawal from the University, filed and been approval for an official leave of absence for spring 2024, filed for leave of absence due to call to active military service for spring 2024, filed or been approved for study abroad for spring 2024, or are a current study abroad visa international student not returning for the spring 2024 semester. All these circumstances require that you are not registered for classes at Millersville University for spring 2024.

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 (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 2023 graduates!

Happy Holidays and stay safe!

Navigating Thanksgiving Break: Safety and Wellness Tips for College Students

As the semester winds down, college students eagerly anticipate the much-needed Thanksgiving break—a time to relax, recharge, and reconnect with family and friends. However, amidst the excitement of heading home, it’s crucial for students to prioritize their safety and wellbeing. In this blog post, we’ll explore essential safety and wellness tips tailored for those students living on campus.

  1. Travel Smart

Whether you’re flying, driving, or taking public transportation, planning your journey is key to a safe and stress-free trip. Check the weather forecast, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and inform someone about your travel plans. If you’re flying, arrive at the airport early to avoid unnecessary stress. Utilize transportation services provided by a ride sharing service, local transit, or travel with friends when possible.

  1. Secure Your Living Space

If you’re leaving for the break period, take a few moments to secure your bedroom and suite. Ensure all doors and windows are locked. Please move all items from your residence hall floor, especially computer equipment and any items that can be damaged by flooding. Remove stale food from your refrigerator and properly dispose of it through proper trash removal.

Learn more about all closing procedures by reading the Residence Hall Thanksgiving Break Bulletin.

  1. Maintain Healthy Habits

Regardless of where you spend Thanksgiving break, prioritizing your well-being is crucial. The Thanksgiving break can be a time of indulgence, but it’s essential to maintain healthy habits. Get enough sleep, eat balanced meals, and stay hydrated. Consider packing healthy snacks for your journey home to avoid relying on convenience foods. Maintaining a balance between festive treats and nutritious choices will help you return to campus feeling refreshed. If you’re staying on campus, use this time for self-care. Take walks, try out new recipes, or engage in activities that bring you joy.

  1. Communicate Effectively

Keep your family, friends, and roommates informed about your plans. Provide them with your travel itinerary, including departure and arrival times. In case of any unexpected changes, make sure you have a reliable means of communication, such as a fully charged phone or a portable charger. Regular check-ins with loved ones can also provide peace of mind for everyone involved.

For those staying on campus, staying connected is essential. Reach out to friends, classmates, or neighbors who may also be in the area. Consider exploring nearby events or activities that foster a sense of community and connection. You can also attend the Fun Fest on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 from 2-6 p.m. in the Quad and South Village Great Room to foster connections and build a supportive community. Effective communication can be a bridge to forming meaningful relationships during the break.

  1. Be Mindful of Mental Health

Thanksgiving break can bring a mix of emotions, from excitement to stress or even homesickness. It’s important to be mindful of your mental health during this time. Take moments for self-reflection and relaxation. If you’re struggling, reach out to friends, family, or campus resources for support.

For help with a mental health crisis or emergency after Counseling Center hours, please call:

  • MU Police at 911
  • Crisis Intervention (Lancaster): 717-394-2631
  • National Suicide Hotline: 988
  • Crisis TEXT Hotline: text “HELLO” to 741741

The break can be challenging for those facing difficult home situations or spending the break alone on campus. Be gentle with yourself and recognize the importance of your mental health. Seek out virtual support groups or online communities where you can share experiences and find understanding. Surround yourself with positive influences, even if they are virtual, to create a supportive environment during this time.

6. Manage Your Time Wisely

While Thanksgiving break is a time for relaxation, it’s also an opportunity to manage your time wisely. Set aside dedicated study periods to review class materials or work on upcoming assignments. Creating a study schedule can help you balance academic responsibilities with holiday festivities, ensuring a smoother transition back to campus life. Use this time to get ahead on coursework, reducing stress as the semester comes to a close.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving break is a well-deserved opportunity for college students to unwind. By following these safety and wellness tips, you can make the most of your break, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in creating a Thanksgiving break filled with joy, relaxation, and peace of mind.

717-871-4200 | housing@millersville.edu