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2024 Annual Benchworks by Elentra Residential Student Survey
Starting on Monday April 15, 2024, the Department of University Housing & Conference Services will have the annual Benchworks by Elentra survey administered. All non-staff residential students (i.e., Shenks Halls & the Villages) will be invited to take the survey through Wednesday May 1, 2024. Students will receive an email invitation with detailed information on how to take the survey. Two follow-up reminder emails will be sent to those who have not completed the survey.
This assessment is crucial for the Department of University Housing & Conference Services as it helps us to understand the successes and areas of improvement of our program, and the services of various campus partners in comparison to other colleges and universities across the country. The survey assesses 21 different factors, which include the following:
Satisfaction
- Hall Student Staff
- Hall Programming
- Hall Environment
- Facilities*
- Services Provided
- Room Assignment
- Room Change
- Safety & Security
- Roommates
- Dining Services*
- Community Environment
Learning
- Personal Interactions
- Sense of Community
- Diverse Interactions
- Self-Management
- Alcohol and Drug Use
- Sustainability
- Living-Learning Community (LLC) Connections & Support
Overall
- Overall Satisfaction
- Overall Learning
- Overall Program Effectiveness
*University Housing & Conference Services does not supervise these areas but works as a partner with the departments responsible for these services.
How to Maintain a Comfortable Temperature in Millersville University’s Residence Halls
Living in the residence halls at Millersville University offers a unique community experience, but it also comes with the responsibility of ensuring a comfortable living environment for everyone. Yvonne, one of our dedicated Residential Area Directors (RADs), has taken the initiative to address some common concerns that affect life in the Village suites, starting with the crucial aspect of temperature regulation.
Understanding Your Thermostat Settings
The thermostats in our residence halls are set to maintain a comfortable range between 68 and 74 degrees. This is to ensure that regardless of the season, you can enjoy a pleasant indoor environment. However, if you find the temperature in your room dropping below 66 degrees or rising above 76 degrees, it’s important to take action. Such extremes shouldn’t occur with properly functioning HVAC systems, so please report these issues by submitting a work order. Instructions for doing so can be found HERE.
The Impact of Open Windows
An often-overlooked aspect of temperature control is the impact of open windows. Opening your windows during very hot or cold periods may seem like a quick fix, but it can inadvertently affect the temperature regulation in neighboring rooms. This is because open windows can trigger the thermostats outside your room, leading to discomfort for your neighbors. And remember, the reverse can also happen, affecting your own room’s comfort.
To minimize this, if you feel the need to open your windows, please do so briefly—just a few minutes should be sufficient—and ensure they’re closed before you leave the room. This simple act of consideration can significantly improve the living experience for everyone in your building.
Special Note on Lounge and Common Spaces
The lounges and common spaces in our residence halls are shared amenities that everyone should be able to enjoy comfortably. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep the windows in these areas closed. We understand that sometimes, especially in kitchens, you might need to air out odors from cooking. In such cases, open the windows only as long as necessary to clear the air and close them promptly afterwards.
By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll be playing a vital part in creating a more comfortable and harmonious living environment for all residents. It’s about respecting each other’s space and comfort, and together, we can make our residence halls a better place to live, study, and relax.
Highlighting Influential Women & Their Stories
In celebration of Women’s History Month, we initiated a conversation with some notable female leaders at Millersville University, inviting them to share their reflections on the profound influence of women in their lives and careers. This dialogue extended beyond identifying impactful figures on campus; it delved into the essence of inspiration, exploring the attributes they most admire, and the lessons learned from these pivotal relationships. Additionally, we asked for their wisdom directed at young women embarking on their university journey or stepping into the professional world, seeking guidance that could light the path ahead. Our conversation also ventured into the future, discussing the aspirations for women in academia, the workplace, and society at large, alongside the practical steps our university community can take to foster these advancements. The responses we received form a mosaic of insights and aspirations, painting a vivid picture of the strength, resilience, and transformative potential women hold, serving as a beacon of inspiration for Millersville University’s students, faculty, and staff. This narrative not only honors the achievements and challenges of women but also aims to empower our community to actively support and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable future.
Who has been the most influential woman in your life or career? How has she inspired you, and what qualities do you admire most in her?
Pietra Jamison- Senior Executive Associate to the President
My grandmother, Oretha, has been the most influential figure in my life and career journey. She hails from Bamberg, South Carolina, and her life story is one of early hardships and unwavering perseverance.
Growing up without her father and losing her mother at just four years old, she was raised by her mother’s family on a farm. There, she learned the value of hard work and dedication from a young age. Despite being a bright child, illness prevented her from completing her education, but it never dimmed her spirit. Moving to Pennsylvania with my grandfather, she faced further challenges, including his struggles with substance abuse and violence. Yet, through it all, her faith in God and belief in the power of education remained steadfast.
Although denied the opportunity to finish formal schooling, she made sure that all her children and grandchildren received an education. Her mantra, “No one can stop what God has in store for you,” reflects her unwavering optimism and determination. Her unwavering support and emphasis on education motivated me to pursue and complete my graduate degree. I am continually inspired by her tireless work ethic, resilience, and unconditional love. Her influence serves as a constant reminder of the importance of perseverance and staying true to oneself in the face of adversity.
Dr. Mary Beth Williams – Vice President for Student Affairs
The most influential women in my life are my three best friends Ginger Young, Tiffany Crandall, and Lesli Hoey. The four of us became friends in eighth grade (1988) at Southwest Junior High in Little Rock, Arkansas. During one of our first sleepovers, we decided to name ourselves “Lianygerethy” which is a combination of all of our names together, and we have emotionally, physically, and professionally supported each other for 36 years and counting (yes, we are all turning 50 this year). Although we now live in four different states (Arkansas, New York, Michigan, and Pennsylvania) with four completely different lives, we always support one another and love one another, we talk often, and we are committed to seeing each other as often as possible. Last fall, we all traveled to Puerto Rico together!
This friendship inspires me because it is one that has stood through the test of time, and it has only gotten better with that time. We challenge each other to be our best selves, our authentic selves. We call one another out when things are not right, and we support one another when there are things to fight for. We ask for each other’s opinions, and we listen to the honest answers we are given because they are, and they have always been given with love first and self-interest last. These women inspire me to be the best version of myself because they have truly seen all of the past versions of myself and have loved me through them. They make me want to be better, do better, and love better. I admire each of them for overcoming their own challenges in life with strength and beauty. We’ve seen each other ugly and sad, and we’ve seen each other beautiful and beaming. Through it all, we have always held onto our friendship like a life preserver in the vast ocean of the world.
I honestly have no idea what the rest of my life will hold, but I know without a shadow of a doubt, the four of us will be in it together helping each other every day.
What advice would you give to young women who are just beginning their university journey or are about to enter the workforce?
Melissa Wardwell – Director of Career Center
Try to resist the urge to compare your life, success, or abilities to others (and use social media mindfully in that regard). Understand that everyone’s journey is different and remember that success is subjective and defined in different ways by different people. Focus on your own growth, define your own success, and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small!
NJ Brown – Assistant Director of Fraternity & Sorority Life & Student Engagement
When I started my university journey back in Fall 2014, I remembered how focused I was on graduating in 4 years. When I was looking at my degree audit online, I told myself to stick to Graphic Design because there were more classes available for that concentration and it was easier to plan my four years around it. A year or two into my program, I didn’t want to admit out loud that I didn’t like Graphic Design and that I wished I had asked more questions around illustration as a concentration.
For young women embarking on a new journey, I advise taking your time to learn about your university program. I focused too much on meeting requirements that I didn’t stop to learn about different concentrations or different classes to explore within my program. If I could redo college, I would have chosen all sorts of electives to see which ones resonated with me more than Graphic Design.
For young women entering the work force, still take the time to learn about different professional development opportunities and committees to join. I work for Fraternity and Sorority Life now and I’m glad to join a committee within my professional association and I’m learning more about the Title IX field. It’s ok if your career interests change over time. I certainly did not see myself in FSL or Title IX when I was an undergraduate student, but I also didn’t learn about Higher Education as a career until my senior year of college. Keep your options open and embrace opportunities to learn new skills. You never know where life takes you in a just a few years.
Jackie Aliotta – Assistant Director of Student Organizations & Leadership
Your collegiate years can be very transformative, and you should utilize these years to your advantage. College is a great time to figure out who you are and who you want to become. In addition to excelling academically inside the classroom, get involved co-curricularly outside the classroom as well. Getting involved in clubs and organizations is a great way to meet people, make friends, find your social groups, and enhance your leadership skills. You’re going to develop transferable skills through your involvement that will make you more marketable to future employers. Be a sponge and soak up every opportunity even if you don’t feel completely qualified. Live your best life, network, explore career options, and when you get a seat at the table speak up. You can do anything you set your mind to.
Lauren Blevins – University Nurse Practitioner & Interim Director of Health Services
For young women just finishing school and entering the workforce, this may come with some insecurities, and you may question your abilities at times. It is important to enter your new career eager to learn, ready to challenge yourself, and with confidence. I encourage women to feel empowered and believe that they are capable and can handle the same challenges as their male colleagues. Although pay inequity for women is still prevalent, over the past few years we are seeing more women represented in the workforce and holding more executive and managerial roles than in the past. To be successful, we must prioritize self-advocacy and display assertiveness. If you cannot be your own champion, you cannot expect others to share your vision or view you as a leader. You need to be aware of your self-worth, not be afraid to challenge the process, enable others to act, position yourself to set goals, and achieve them.
We need to cultivate an environment where we continue to learn in our career and not allow anyone to make you feel unworthy of your accomplishments. I follow the philosophy that you do not ever lose in life; you either win or you learn. If an outcome is not what we had hoped or expected, we need to take this as an opportunity for growth and make changes to ensure future successes. It is important to ensure your core values align with the institution you work for. Every company has their own organizational culture. If you ever feel that your company does not see your dedication or acknowledge your contributions, do not feel powerless. Instead, you can choose acceptance, and take your talents, experiences, and knowledge to a new environment that shares your vision and values your worth.
Joni Klopp – Director of Undergraduate Recruitment
Go after what you want. Life is only what you make it, whether on a university campus or in the professional world. Many young women (my younger self included) experience imposter syndrome as they navigate new opportunities. Know your value and don’t be afraid to occupy the space you deserve.
Looking towards the future, what changes do you hope to see for women in academia, the workplace, and society? What steps do you think we can take as a university community to support these changes?
Yvonne DeBlois – Residential Area Director, East Village
Women continue to have a stronger and stronger voice in the workplace and are more empowered to speak up about the disparities we see. As a society, we are getting better at recognizing and calling out biases both conscious and unconscious, and we are lucky at Millersville that we are safe to challenge biases when we see them.
As a university community, we can continue to support these changes by bolstering the systems we have in place that offer resources, recourse, and even perhaps protections to those who do experience or challenge experiences where biases may be at play. We do a good job of reviewing and updating policies and practices so that they may be relevant and flexible as our community needs continue to flex or change. Maintaining this adaptability will allow us opportunity to continue serving our community even in areas we may not be able to fully anticipate.
The insights shared by some of our female leaders at Millersville University have been profoundly inspiring. The diverse narratives presented offer a wealth of wisdom, showcasing the resilience and strength inherent in the female experience. These stories are not just narratives of success but are also guiding lights for overcoming life’s challenges and finding motivation in the face of adversity. We believe that everyone has a story of a woman who has made a significant impact on their lives, whether through direct interaction or through the legacy of their accomplishments. Therefore, we invite our readers to join this meaningful conversation. Share with us: Who are your female role models? How have they inspired you, and what lessons have you drawn from their lives? Let’s continue to build this community of inspiration, sharing stories that uplift and motivate, forging connections that celebrate the incredible contributions of women to our world.
Spring Cleaning and Decluttering for College Students
Is your residence halls suite 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 tidier. 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.