By Candice Olson, Program Manager, Texas A&M University
As the new academic year approaches, universities and colleges across SWACUHO nation are preparing for the annual move-in day, a pivotal event for both new and returning students. Residence Life and Housing system experts share their insights and advice to ensure a smooth transition for students.
Cambelle Olson, Resident Advisor at Texas A&M University, emphasizes to new and incoming residents the importance of preparation. "Bringing a wagon or renting a dolly can save a lot of time and effort," she advises. "It's also crucial to dress comfortably, arrive early, and have everything ready to unload quickly, as move-in parking is limited to one hour."
Emma Waters, Senior Resident Advisor at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, says that staff have music playing from a loudspeaker over the entire parking lot, which welcomes lots of smiles, laughs, and dancing. This is the first time staff meet new students and their families. “This vibe was a wonderful welcome [when I was] a new student myself, and has been an exciting tradition to continue,” Waters said.
Beth Eppinger, Assistant Director for Housing Administrative Services at Texas Woman's University, discusses the evolution of their move-in process. "Partnering with University and Student Services (USS) to provide a cruise ship-style move-in has made the experience easier for everyone," she explains. Eppinger notes that high satisfaction and room cleanliness are key indicators of a successful move-in. However, communication remains a significant challenge. "Despite our efforts to provide information through multiple mediums, there's no guarantee that everyone will read and understand it," she says. Parking is another common issue.
Monica Vera Leandro, Assistant Director – Housing and Residence Life at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, highlights the challenge of balancing resources while ensuring a positive move-in experience. "We must be fully prepared well in advance, especially for early arrivals due to programs or personal circumstances," she says. Leandro's wish list includes a full fleet of branded move-in carts to reduce wait times and make the process less physically demanding.
Planning for move-in day is a year-round effort for these colleges and universities. From recording notes and conducting satisfaction surveys to updating websites and soliciting volunteers, the preparation is extensive. Despite the challenges, the goal remains the same: to create a welcoming and efficient move-in experience for all students.
As move-in day approaches, students are encouraged to prepare thoroughly, engage with their new community, and take advantage of the resources and support available to them. With the right approach, move-in day can be the start of an exciting and successful academic journey.
Waters has great advice on making one’s move-in and first week experience special. “The best way to facilitate the connections between new roommates or floor mates is by saying ‘yes’ to the activities provided around campus and within the hall. This time is candid and unknown, but what is beautiful about it is that everyone is experiencing these things, and it provides the perfect atmosphere for building friendships and learning about people,” Waters said.
