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As the academic year unfolds, college and university students navigate a variety of challenges and milestones that shape their experiences on campus. From the excitement of move-in day, to the pressure of final exams, each phase brings unique opportunities for growth and support. I wanted to share this month-by-month guide for residence life professionals, highlighting the key events students encounter throughout the year and what RA’s and residence life staff can expect and provide helpful resources. As a marketing coordinator working in the higher education industry, I thought this guide was super helpful in planning out my year and understanding the academic calendar and its impact on students. I hope you find this resource just as beneficial as I did!
Pre-Move-In (May to August)
What to expect: Students are gearing up for the big move. Help ease their transition by providing clear communication and resources.
Resource Suggestions:
- Move-in procedures
- Packing tips (what to bring to campus vs. what to leave at home)
- Roommate matching process
- Introduction to residence life staff
- Preparing for community living
Move-In Week (Late August to Early September)
What to expect: This is one of the most hectic periods of the year as students are navigating the residence life transition. Try to to send gentle reminders while extending a warm and inviting welcome.
Resource Suggestions:
- Daily welcome messages and reminders
- Campus maps and tips for getting around
- Events scheduled during move-in week
- Introductions to key residence life services during a first community meeting
Early Semester (September to October)
What to expect: Students will be focused on settling in and building community. Once move-in is over, focus on creating a sense of belonging.
Resource Suggestions:
- Ice-breaker events and social mixers
- Roommate agreements and expectations
- Mental health resources and study tips
- Information about campus resources
Mid-Semester (October to November)
What to expect: Mid-semester is a critical time when academic and personal stress starts to build. It’s important to address common mid-term stressors and be there for students.
Resource Suggestions:
- Wellness check-ins and mental health resources
- Partner with well-being services to provide de-stress events
- Academic support and tutoring services
- Conflict resolution tips for roommates
- Reminders about community standards
End of Semester (November to December)
What to expect: As the semester winds down, students will need guidance to navigate finals and prepare for break as well as the end of the semester
Resource Suggestions:
- Study tips and quiet hour education
- Check-out procedures and holiday safety reminders
- End-of-term celebrations or de-stress events
Spring Semester Prep (December to January)
What to expect: As students return from winter break, it’s important to set expectations for the new semester.
Resource Suggestions:
- Returning after winter break and key dates
- New roommate arrangements or changes
- Reminders about welcome back events
Spring Semester (January to March)
What to expect:The spring semester may seem calmer, but it’s important to keep up engagement and address any lingering concerns.
Resource Suggestions:
- Wellness checks and community building events
- Mid-year academic support and reminders about services
End-of-Year Prep (April to May)
What to expect: As the year wraps up, students will need clear instructions on how to close out their time in residence.
Resource Suggestions:
- Check-out procedures and moving out tips
- Preparing for finals and managing stress
- Transitioning to off-campus housing, if applicable
This schedule was designed to provide insight and support to students by residence and housing life professionals, ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive throughout the school year. We hope you found this guide helpful when planning your academic year! Share your content ideas with us on our socials @eRezLife!
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