Villages Lead to Student Success

Posted: August 29, 2012

picture of Impact leadership Village students As NC State celebrates its 125^th anniversary, University Housing is celebrating the 10-year anniversary of its Living and Learning Villages. Developed in 2002 as a united effort between University Housing and a network of campus partners, Villages cultivate residents’ personal and professional passions by integrating book smarts with real-world, hands-on experiences.

So what exactly is a Village?
They say it “takes a village to raise a child,” but at University Housing we like to say it takes a Village to get the most out of your college experience. Our Villages are small, interest-based communities that engage students both inside and outside the classroom. Students live together in a centralized location and are offered a variety of programming opportunities that reflect the theme of the Village and meet the students’ interests. As a parent, you might be wondering what the cost is – and we are happy to say that students living in a Village don’t incur any additional fees!

Why should my student join a Village?
When parents ask why their students should join a Village, our immediate response is “why not?” Research shows that students living in a Village have 7% higher grade point averages (GPAs) compared to those living on campus in a non-Village setting. In addition, students in Villages engage more with the University, and are provided academic and social resources to help guide their experience. Living in a Village, especially as a first-year student, is a great way to integrate and adjust to NC State.

What Villages can my student choose to live in?
University Housing currently offers 10 Living and Learning Villages. These Village choices are regularly evaluated and expanded. Below are current (and one future) Village opportunities:

The Arts Village
Creative, vibrant, and colorful only begin to describe the experiences your student will have as he/she explores theater, visual arts, crafts, music, dance and more. Arts Village students are centrally located in Turlington Hall. Learn more.

The First Year College Village
This tight-knit community will help students find their calling – “howl” and all. Participants will explore career options and majors while living in a multifaceted community that supports academics, recreation and friendships. Students live in the Tucker and Owen halls on Central Campus. Learn more.

The Global Village
Your student’s trip around the world begins in his/her own backyard. This Village, offering roommate pairings with students from different cultures and backgrounds, leads to a truly global experience. Students live in Alexander and Carroll residence halls. Learn more.

The Honors Village
Was your student accepted into the University Honors Program? This community helps students build relationships with fellow program participants through socials, service, and studies. Students live on East Campus in Bagwell, Berry, and Becton. Learn more.

The Impact Leadership Village
Is your child aspiring to be the next President, or does your student have a genuine interest in leadership? This Village helps students grow their abilities through retreats, field trips, service, and engagement with community leaders. Students live in Bowen Hall on Central Campus. Learn more.

The Scholars Village
Is your child affiliated with the University Scholars Program? Don’t let him/her miss the opportunity to live and engage with fellow program participants through social, cultural, and educational opportunities. Students live in the newly renovated Sullivan Hall. Learn more.

Students Advocating for Youth (SAY) Village
Today’s children are tomorrow’s leaders – so encourage your student to make an impact by mentoring youth in and around the Raleigh area. Students live in Syme Hall on East Campus. Learn more.

Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Village
In this Village, women mathematicians, scientists and engineers reign queen! Students will join like-minded women pursuing similar fields and be paired with upper-class mentors. Students reside in Lee Hall on West Campus. Learn more.

Women of Welch (WOW) Village
This one’s for the ladies. Students are part of a holistic community that fosters growth and development. Retreats, service events, conferences, and more help shape their campus experience. Learn more.

Wood Wellness Village
For students wanting to make personal wellness a priority! From group fitness activities, to meditation, to nutrition - this community explores the seven dimensions of wellness and helps residents incorporate them into their lives. Learn more.

Coming 2014! - Entrepreneurs Village
Students can join other entrepreneurial-minded students in Wolf Ridge Apartments on Centennial Campus for an innovative Village that fosters outside-the-box thinking and originality.