UF Department of Housing & Residence Education

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Residential Learning Communities?

The University of Florida Department of Housing and Residence Education offers you eight exciting Residential Learning Communities -- each unique in design, program, and population. Students opting to participate in a particular Residential Learning Community are assigned to the same residence hall, mentored by upper-class peers who also reside in the same location, and are immersed in programs and activities related to the theme of the community.

We also offer other opportunities where students can take advantage of special services located in a residence area (GatorWell at the Springs and Jennings) or interact with a faculty member who lives in their residence hall (Broward, Hume, Lakeside, and Tolbert).

What can I expect from a Residential Learning Community?

One of the best predictors of success in college is how involved you are and how much you feel a part of the campus community. You can expect to live and learn in an active and involved community of students who share similar interests, majors, and values, while still maintaining a high level of diversity among hall residents. You can also expect to develop strong relationships with other residents in your community, as well as University faculty and staff members.

Research indicates that when compared to peers in non-living learning communities, students involved in Residential Learning Communities are significantly more likely to:

• have higher levels of involvement with campus activities, peers, and faculty
• show higher levels of or greater gains in intellectual development
• engage in collaborative learning, which is associated with improved grades, retention, and increased satisfaction

What kind of student signs up to live in a Residential Learning Community?

Students who …

• have been very involved in clubs and organizations in high school
• want to get involved at the University of Florida
• want to seek leadership positions on campus
• are serious about their academic progress
• want to get to know other students

“Alumni” of our programs can be found in Student Government leadership positions, in the Albert costume at football games, in Resident Assistant and Graduate Hall Director positions, on the Gator Growl/Homecoming staff, in various study abroad programs, in internships at large corporations, serving as Teaching Assistants for faculty members…just to name a few!

Am I required to attend the programs or take the classes offered in the Residential Learning Communities?

No, you are not required to participate in anything. However, the more you do participate in the programs and activities (and classes if applicable), the more you will gain from your experience.

Does living in a Residential Learning Community cost extra?

No, there are no additional fees beyond the rental rate for each hall.

How do I apply to live in one of these Residential Learning Communities?

Simply indicate your choice of Residential Learning Community when completing your preferences for the Residence Hall Contract. To complete or change your preference:

• Log onto the Housing Portal (http://my.housing.ufl.edu)
• Select the “Contract” Tab
• Indicate "Hall" as your MOST IMPORTANT PREFERENCE.
• Choose Double Room as your choice for ROOM TYPE PREFERENCE.

Choose the community of your choice as your HALL PREFERENCE