Through faculty participation in Commons activities, associates, residents, and their families broaden the spectrum of friendships that students can develop. Each Commons has a dining hall, which allows students, faculty, and staff the opportunity to share ideas, conversation, and relaxation. This bond of shared time brings together students with diverse backgrounds and interests. In particular, students are encouraged to participate in the Residence Hall Book Seminars. A faculty member chooses a book and then discusses it over six one-hour sessions at a catered dinner in the residence hall where the seminar is scheduled.
Students earn credit.
The system provides many leadership opportunities within each Commons and in the campus community as a whole. This group of undergraduates is an excellent resource for all students. They listen to and refer students, plan social and educational activities, and explain campus policies. Each Commons elects its own student leaders. Together with the residence hall staff and faculty associated with the Commons, they manage their dining room, lounges, social space, and program funds.