Home to over 10,000 students, Howard University is a vibrant and diverse campus community. Residence life plays a vital role in the overall student experience, providing a supportive and enriching environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally.
Living Options
Howard University offers a wide range of living options to accommodate the diverse needs of its students.
- Traditional Residence Halls: These on-campus dormitories offer shared rooms and common areas, providing a sense of community and close proximity to classes and other campus amenities.
- Suite-Style Residence Halls: These on-campus apartments feature private bedrooms and shared common areas, offering a more private and independent living experience.
- Off-Campus Housing: Students can also choose to live off-campus in privately-owned apartments, houses, or townhomes. This option provides more flexibility and independence, but also requires students to navigate the local rental market and manage their own housing arrangements.
Dining Options
Howard University students have access to a variety of dining options on campus.
- The Cook Out: This all-you-care-to-eat dining hall offers a wide selection of dishes, including traditional American cuisine, international specialties, and vegetarian and vegan options.
- The Bistro: This on-campus coffee shop offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and beverages.
- Einstein Bros. Bagels: This national chain restaurant offers a variety of bagels, sandwiches, and coffee drinks.
- Off-Campus Restaurants: Students can also access a wide range of off-campus restaurants within walking distance or a short bus ride from the university.
Resident Life Programs and Activities
Howard University’s Residence Life department offers a variety of programs and activities to engage students and foster community.
- Resident Assistant (RA) Program: RAs are student leaders who live in the residence halls and provide support, guidance, and resources to their fellow residents.
- Freshman Year Experience (FYE): FYE is a comprehensive program designed to help first-year students transition to university life and succeed academically and personally.
- Cultural Heritage Month Celebrations: The university celebrates the diversity of its student body with cultural heritage month celebrations throughout the year.
- Intramural Sports: Students can participate in a variety of intramural sports, including basketball, volleyball, and flag football.
- Social Events: Residence Life hosts a variety of social events throughout the year, including movie nights, game nights, and dances.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not getting involved: Residence life offers a wide range of opportunities to get involved and meet new people. Don’t miss out on these valuable experiences.
- Not following the rules: Residence halls have rules and regulations in place to ensure a safe and respectful living environment. Be sure to familiarize yourself with and follow these rules.
- Not communicating with your roommate(s): It’s important to communicate openly with your roommate(s) about expectations, boundaries, and preferences.
- Not taking advantage of resources: Residence Life provides a variety of resources to help students succeed academically, socially, and personally. Be sure to take advantage of these resources.
Making the Most of Residence Life
To make the most of your residence life experience, consider the following tips:
- Get involved: Participate in resident life programs and activities to meet new people, make friends, and build community.
- Be respectful: Respect your roommates, neighbors, and Resident Assistants.
- Take care of your space: Keep your room and shared spaces clean and organized.
- Ask for help: If you need help with anything, don’t hesitate to reach out to your RA, Residence Life staff, or other campus resources.
Residence life at Howard University is more than just a place to live. It’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and build lifelong friendships. By following these tips and getting involved in the community, you can make the most of your residence life experience.
