When does it really hit you that you’re in college? You may think it’s your first class, but for many students, it’s when you move onto campus! Here’s what you need to know about move-in day and adjusting to dorm life.
What to Expect on Move-In Day
One of the (many) exciting things about being a freshman is that you get to move in before anyone else! Move-in day for first-year students is typically about a week before classes start. Returning students can start moving in a day or two later, which gives you some time to get adjusted before the campus fills up.
Your move-in time slot is usually assigned based on your last name, for example:
- A-E: 7 am – 9:30 am
- F-K: 9:30 am – 12 pm
- L-Q: 12 pm – 2:30 pm
- R-Z: 2:30 pm – 4 pm
- Students who missed their scheduled time: 4 pm – 7 pm
Don’t worry if you’re moving in during one of the later time slots. Your room is assigned to you and won’t be scooped up by another student!
On move-in day, we’ll have upperclassmen around to answer any questions you have. We’ll help you figure out parking and get everything up into your room.
How to Prepare for the Big Move
The biggest and most obvious step before moving in is to pack up your things. Don’t save this for the last minute, especially if your moving time slot is early in the morning.
Recommendations for What to Bring
- Basics: Backpack, school supplies, calendar, bulletin board/dry erase board, insurance card, posters, masking tape, hangers, cold medicine and other over-the-counter medications, copies of prescriptions, keychain and ID card holder, umbrella, raincoat, postage stamps, stationery, cleaning supplies, small sewing kit, small tool kit, copy of social security card and copy of birth certificate
- Bed and bath items: Comforter, blanket, pillow, towels, shower tote, wastebasket, soap with soap container, hairdryer, curling iron, shower shoes, bathrobe, razors, toilet paper, sheets and pillowcases (XL Twin) and shower curtain for apartment and suite-style living
- Electronics and housewares: Alarm clock, cell phone, desk lamp, fan, multiple outlet strip with surge protector (long cords), flashlight and batteries, stereo/Radio/CD player, microwave: (700 watts or less), refrigerator (no larger than 4 cubic feet), coffee maker, plates and kitchenware, microwavable cups, storage containers, iron and small ironing board, laundry bag or basket and optional electronics (DVD player with cables, computer, printer, Ethernet card and cables, television)
What should you leave behind? Cooking equipment with an exposed heating coil (toaster ovens, hot plates, steam cookers, deep fryers, electric skillets, gas or charcoal grills, etc.), halogen lamps, electric heaters, candles, incense, propane canisters, lighter fluid, charcoal, live Christmas trees, ceiling fans, TV wall mounts, HDTV wall mounts, wall mounted shelving, wall mounted mirrors, lofts or concrete blocks to elevate beds or other furniture, weapons of any kind including handguns, rifles, shotguns, any firearms, knives, darts, archery equipment, B-B guns, air guns, pellet guns (metal or plastic), paintball guns, fireworks, alcoholic beverages, illegal substances or drug paraphernalia, empty alcoholic beverage containers or other prohibited decorative containers, regular extension cords and wireless routers.
Rental Insurance is strongly recommended to cover your belongings while you live in a residence hall or apartment.
Five (5) Tips for Living in the Dorms
Dorm life is exciting, but it may be unlike anything else you’ve experienced. Below are a few tips to help you transition into living on campus:
- Get outside your comfort zone. Your new best friend may be a few doors down, so get out there and say hello!
- Don’t hesitate to call home. Especially in those first few weeks, it’s totally normal to feel a little homesick.
- Establish a routine. Talk with your roommate to choose a wake-up time, quiet/study hours, and when it’s lights-out.
- Try different study spots. Maybe you’ll focus best in your room, or maybe you’ll prefer somewhere around campus. Test out the spots to find your favorite!
- Get to know your roommate. Go to the dining halls together, help each other get settled, and be open and friendly. Having a good relationship with your roommate will make all the difference throughout the year.
First Things First – What to Do on the ‘Hill’
Register your vehicle – www.famu.edu/index.cfm?parking&ParkingPermitsandDecals
Explore dining options – metzfamu.edu
Download the Live Safe App – lifesafemobile.com
Welcome Week activities – studentactivities.famu.edu/WelcomeWeek
One-Stop Shop (multiple student services in one location) – Wednesday, August 22 – Thursday, August 30 in the Al Lawson Center
Grape Harvest Festival – Saturday, August 25, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. – FAMU.edu/ghf
President’s Convocation – Friday, August 31, 10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. – Gaither Gym
First Home Football Game – Saturday, September 1 at 5 p.m.
Parents Weekend – Friday, September 21 – Sunday, September 23
Helpful FAMU Numbers
Parking Services – (850) 561-2657
Housing – (850) 599-3651 or famuhousing@famu.edu
Student Activities – (850) 599-3400
Financial Aid – (850) 599-3730
Student Accounts – (850) 561-2949
Registrar’s Office – (850) 599-3155
FAMU News Sources
FAMU.edu
FAMUnews.com
Blackboard Connect
Live.FAMU.edu
iStrike
FAMUINFO
Parking Services/Safety
Facebook – www.facebook.com/FAMU1887
Twitter – www.twitter.com/FAMU_1887
Instagram – www.instagram.com/famu_1887
View Helpful FAQs below:
Parking Services
Q: Do you have any tips for parking on campus?
Parking in the center of campus fills up quickly. Parking is most available in the parking garage and parking lots on the perimeter of campus.
Q: How can I contact Parking Services?
Parking Services can be contacted by calling (850) 412-5615 or (850) 561-2627. If you have questions, you can also email Parking Services at parkingservices@famu.edu.
Q: How do I know where to park with a valid permit?
At the entrance to the parking garage and parking lots, there are signs posted with lot designations and/or acceptable permits.
Q: Can a freshman resident obtain a decal to park on campus?
No, they cannot. Freshman residents are not permitted to possess and register a vehicle on campus.
Q: Where can visitors park on campus?
All visitors will need to obtain a visitor’s permit to park on campus. A Permit can be obtained at Parking Services located at 2400 Wahnish Way. Visitors are welcome to park in all parking lots designated as “General Parking” with the purchase of a visitor’s pass. Visitors may also park in any metered spot available (meters must be paid). All visitor passes are $5.00 per day.
Q: Where is disabled parking on campus?
At Florida A&M University (FAMU), we strive to ensure our campus is accessible. Our campus has many disabled parking spaces to ensure that persons with disabilities have access to get to their destination.
Q: What is the Transportation Access Fee applied to?
The transportation access fee of $65.00 for the Fall and Spring Semesters and $33.00 for the Summer Semester provides parking permits, the Venom Express bus system, and parking lot and garage maintenance and upkeep.
Q: What hours are Traffic & Transportation Regulations enforced on campus?
Traffic & Transportation Regulations are enforced 24 hours a day by Parking Services and the FAMU Police Department.
Q: Where can I obtain a copy of the Traffic & Transportation Regulations?
Traffic & Transportation Regulations can be obtained by visiting the university website (Traffic & Transportation Regulations right click here). The Traffic & Transportation Regulations booklet can also be obtained at Parking Services located at 2400 Wahnish Way.
Q: When and how is student vehicle registration conducted?
Student registration begins each year in July and continues through the entire year. Student vehicle registration is conducted online at www.famu.edu. Click on the “Student Link” then click “Parking Registration.” Students will sign into the vehicle registration portal using their student ID number and last name. Only students that are currently enrolled at FAMU can register.
University Housing
Q: How do I apply?
Students must submit a housing application and supply a $200.00 advanced payment. Please see the prospective or current resident sections on our webpage, also review and retain the Terms and Conditions for your files.
Mail advance payment to:
Office of University Housing
1596 Gibbs Hall Trail
Tallahassee, FL 32307-6000
Q: How do I cancel my housing?
You must submit a written request for cancellation to the address listed above. If your cancellation is approved, you will be subjected to cancellation fees as per the Terms and Conditions. If your cancellation request is not approved, you will remain obligated to the Housing Agreement and financially responsible for the entire length of the Housing Agreement. Please read the Terms and Conditions prior to requesting a cancellation.
Q: How much does housing cost?
Housing has varying room rates please see Rental Rate information.
Q: Can my financial aid be applied to my housing?
Yes. However, if a balance remains after financial aid is dispersed, you are responsible for the balance.
Q: When is my housing payment due?
Fees are due by the fifth day of classes each semester.
Q: Is it possible to pay for my housing in installments?
Yes, you may pay in installments provided your balance is paid in full by the fifth day of classes.
Q: How do I make my advance payment?
Advance payments can be made by mailing a money order or cashier’s check to Florida A&M University Housing, 1596 Gibbs Hall Trail, Tallahassee, FL 32307.
You may also pay in person with cash, check, money order or credit card at the Cashier’s Office located in the Foote-Hilyer Administration Center.
Q: How are assignments made?
All spring semester residences are given the opportunity to apply for limited returning student housing for the upcoming academic year. After returning students are assigned, the application process will begin for new residents. Housing assignments are made according to a combination of factors including availability, date of application, roommate requests, and building/room preferences. The Office of University Housing makes every attempt to honor requests. Please keep in mind that it is not always possible to satisfy all of these requests. Demand is high and we often cannot honor all requests.
Q: When can I find out who my roommate is?
Roommate information will be given out or posted by the housing assignment staff.
Q: How do I request someone to be my roommate?
Roommate requests must be submitted by both or all individuals on the housing application. The Office of University Housing makes every attempt to honor roommate requests. Please keep in mind that demand is high and we often cannot honor all requests.
Q: What if I need special accommodations?
Some of the residence halls have been equipped to better meet the needs of students with disabilities. Please contact Office of Equal Opportunity Programs at 850-599-3076. That office will conduct an assessment and forward their recommendation regarding your needs to the Office of Housing and Residence Life. You should also indicate on your housing application what your needs are regarding housing.
Q: How long are the beds? What kind of sheets will I need?
All beds in the residence halls are extra-long twin beds (80 inches). You will need extra-long twin sheets, which are available at retail stores.
Q: What should I bring to campus?
In addition to your personal belongings, you are encouraged to bring the following items: linen (a pillow, pillowcases, extra-long sheets (36in X 80in) mattress pad, bedspread, towels, washcloths, blankets, etc.), study lamp, rain apparel, shower shoes, soap, iron, ironing board and pad, alarm clock, dictionary, thesaurus, calculator, broom, dustpan, trash baskets, bath and laundry soap, laundry bag or basket, sewing kit, first aid kit, clothes hangers, and one or more power surge protectors (mandatory).
If you will be living in a University Apartment, you also need to bring cookware, utensils, dishes, shower curtains and necessary household cleaning supplies.
You may bring computers, stereos, televisions, microwaves, small refrigerators, and other electronic equipment.
Q: What should I not bring?
Regular household extension cords, halogen lamps, hot plates, toaster ovens, space heaters, candles, incense, fryers, electric skillets, electric grills or any potentially hazardous items.
Q: Do I need curtains?
No, not necessarily; every window in the apartment has mini-blinds. However, some students put up decorative curtains or sheers on light-weight curtain rods.
Q: What type of computer connection is there in my room?
There is a wireless internet connection in each bedroom and facility.
Q: May I have a pet?
For health reasons, animals such as mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, arachnids, crustaceans, and amphibians are prohibited. If pets are found, a fine will be assessed to the owner of the pet for cleaning costs.
Immediate removal of the pet will be required and possible disciplinary action may occur.
Q: Who will clean my room?
Although custodial workers are employed to keep all public areas and public community bathrooms clean, you are expected to clean your own room, bathroom, and common areas in the apartment.
Q: Do I have to get a meal plan?
Students living in traditional residence halls are required to purchase a student meal plan. Students living in apartment style facilities are not required to purchase a meal plan but may do so if they wish. For information please visit the Meal Plan section on the FAMU website.
Q: May I store my belongings in my room during the summer months?
No, you may not. Because the residence halls are used for summer school, camps, conferences, and are under renovations during the summer months, students are not allowed to store any belongings or property on campus during the summer.
Q: What is the move-in date for the fall and spring semester?
Please see the University calendar for move-in dates.
Q: What is the move out date for both semesters?
Please see the University calendar for move-in dates.
Q: Can I remain in the same room I was assigned in the summer for the fall?
No, summer semester operates with limited facilities; therefore your summer assignment may have already been assigned for the fall semester.
Q: Can I remain in the same room I was assigned in the spring for the summer?
No, summer semester operates with limited facilities; therefore the facility that you lived in for the spring semester may not be open for summer.
Q: How or when can I request a room change?
At no financial penalty, residents may request room changes during the first two weeks of each semester. If approved, the move must take place during the third week of the semester and complete within 48 hours of approval. The room change form is available at the front desk of your assigned building or from the main housing office. Residents must understand this is only a request and will be honored at the discretion of the housing department staff and the availability of spaces.
Any room transfer requests that are received after the initial room transfer period (during the 3rd week of the semester) will be charged a $30.00 administrative fee. Residents who do not follow these procedures may have their requests for a room transfer denied. Residents who transfer rooms without the written approval of the Office of Housing and Residence Life will be required to move back to their original room and may receive a $75.00 fine in addition to the administrative charge and/or disciplinary action will occur. End-of-the-semester room transfers must be completed before the students leave for the semester break. If this is not done, the request for a room transfer will be denied. Residents may also be reassigned as a result of a judicial sanction.
Q: Are first time freshmen required to stay on campus in the fall if they stayed on campus in the summer?
Yes, If the student fails to qualify for an exemption as indicate below.
An exemption from the On-Campus Residency Requirement may be granted for:
- Students graduated from a high school within 35 miles of the University’s Tallahassee campus and will reside with a parent or legal guardian within the 35 miles’ radius of campus.
Required Documentation to be submitted with this form:
A notarized letter is required from the student’s parent/legal guardian stating the student will be living at home during the academic term and the Florida address is their permanent residence. A copy of a parent/legal guardian’s valid Florida Driver’s License is also required to show proof of residency.
- Married students with a dependent child or children
- Students 21 years of age or older prior to the first day of classes
- Students who are military veterans that served on active duty for at least 12 months or students currently serving on active military duty
- Students on a case-by-case basis by the President or President’s designee provided there is good cause shown by the student
Q: Does FAMU offer family housing?
The University does not offer family housing.
Disaster Preparedness for College Students
Q: What are tips for developing a disaster plan?
- Be aware of the types of emergencies/hazards that can potentially affect your area of residence.
- Plan a meeting with your family, roommates, and co-workers to discuss disaster preparedness.
- Discuss what to do in an evacuation: driving routes, meeting places, a list of contacts.
- Determine how you will exit your apartment, dorm, or house in case of an evacuation. Know at least two ways to get out.
- Plan for several different meeting places. One place should be directly outside of your apartment, dorm, or house. The other should be a site away from your neighborhood in the event you cannot return home. Give your family members and roommates a copy of this information.
- Choose an out-of-state contact person. It is often easier to call long distance than locally during an emergency situation. As soon as possible, let the designated person know that you are safe. Share this contact person’s information with your family and roommates.
- Discuss how to “shelter in place.” The type of incident will determine how you should shelter.
- Discuss and practice how to turn off electricity, water, heating, cooling systems and gas.
- Assemble a disaster supply kit for home, work and in your vehicle.
- Take a course in first aid and CPR.
- Become familiar with the 2-1-1 Florida Information and Referral Hotline. 2-1-1 can be dialed from any landline telephone and most cell phones for emergency information regarding the closest evacuation routes and access to water, food and shelter as well as information on other health and human services available across the state.
Emergency Supply Kit for College Students
Q: What are the essentials for creating an emergency supplies kit?
- Water – Pack a three-day supply of one gallon per person per day
- Water purification tablets
- First aid kit– It should contain ibuprofen, aspirin, adhesive bandages, antibiotic/burn ointment, sterile gauze pads, etc
- A first aid handbook
- Prescription medications
- Extra clothing
- Food – Make sure to choose items with a long shelf life, the ability to eat without preparation, and a good nutritional value
- Extra blankets or pillows
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Extra pair of contacts or eyeglasses
- Fire extinguisher
- Out-of-state contact person’s phone number
- Extra set of car keys
- Cash and change
- Waterproof matches and candles
- Some form of personal identification
Safety & Comfort
- Sturdy shoes
- Heavy-duty gloves for clearing glass or debris
- Face mask - N95 rating
- Change of clothing
- Knife, razor blades, scissors
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Tent/tarp
- Area map
- Cell phone
- Address/phone directory for friends and family
- Books and playing cards
- Communication kits: paper, pens/pencils/markers
Sanitation Supplies
- Toilet paper
- Antibacterial hand sanitizer
- Bar soap/liquid detergent
- Paper towels
- Toothpaste and toothbrushes
- Feminine hygiene products
- Trash can/large trash bags
- Bath towels
Cooking
- Plates, cups, bowls
- Paper towels
- Aluminum foil
- Utensils (knife, fork, spoon)
- If possible, a camping stove and fuel. Remember to never use a camping stove indoors
Tools & Supplies
- Adjustable wrench (for shutting off gas)
- Shovel, broom, saw, axe
- Duct tape
- Chalk (to mark search areas)
- Toolkit: screwdrivers, pliers, hammer, crowbar
Reminders
- These items can be kept in a large plastic storage container.
- Store water in a separate area to avoid damaging dry items in case of leakage.
- Also, check your Emergency Supplies Kit every six months to ensure that none of your items have expired.
To purchase a ready-made, emergency preparedness kit, please visit: www.redcrossstore.org.
Please visit the following websites for more information on developing an emergency plan and building a disaster supply kit: http://www.ready.gov/ and http://www.redcross.org/.
University Ombuds
Q: What does an Ombuds do?
An Ombuds is a neutral, impartial person that informally investigates reported complaints and assists in achieving fair outcomes. In addition, an Ombuds provides information and offers recommendations regarding changes in policies and procedures.
Q: Where is the Office of the University Ombuds located?
The Office of the University Ombuds is located in Foote-Hilyer Administration Center, room 308, on the campus of FAMU. The telephone and facsimile numbers are (850) 599-3183 and (850) 561-2674, respectively.
Q: When should the Ombuds be contacted?
The Ombuds should be contacted when you are unsure with whom to speak or what options are available when established policies and procedures have failed to resolve an issue, when the decision-making process appears to be delayed or when you have a complaint about an office or service.
Q: How can the Ombuds help?
The Ombuds can be a first resource to answer questions when a person doesn’t know where to get information or as a last resort to assist when normal channels, processes or procedures have failed to bring resolution to a problem.
The Ombuds can help by:
- clarifying University policy and procedures.
- informally investigating your complaint.
- listening to your complaint.
- making referrals.
- offering a confidential and informal forum to discuss your concerns.
- opening lines of communications.
- recommending changes to University policies and procedures.
Q: Why should the Ombuds’ services be used?
The Ombuds has access to people, records, and services that most persons do not. With such access, the Ombuds will be able to possibly help all persons involved reach a resolution. Please understand, however, that the Ombuds cannot promise the outcome a person may want.
Office of Counseling Services
Q: What is counseling?
Counseling is a relationship with a person who is professionally trained to help discuss concerns in a way that clarifies one’s thoughts and feelings. This helping relationship leads to increased self-understanding and more effective behavior.
Q: Where is the Office of Counseling Services?
The Office of Counseling Services is located at 636 Gamble Street. We are located across from FAMU Village Residence Hall.
Q: Who is eligible to receive services?
Currently enrolled FAMU students are eligible for services. Each student receives individualized face-to-face short-term therapy. If you are interested in couples counseling, one person in the relationship must be an enrolled student at FAMU.
Q: How often are appointments? How long do they last?
Ordinarily, students will see a counselor for a 45 to 50-minute appointment, once per week, although scheduling is done on a case-by-case basis.
Q: Why should I come to the Office of Counseling Services?
While the college experience is often exciting and enjoyable, it can also be quite stressful. It is important to address the stressors and concerns in your life so you can focus on being academically successful.
Q: What services are offered?
The Office of Counseling Services offers a wide variety of services to meet the needs of the students. Our services include individual counseling, group counseling, couples counseling, psychiatric consultations, academic support, victim advocate services, and presentations.
Q: What are some of the concerns students come to the counseling center to address?
Some of the reasons students seek our services are but not limited to:
Relationships
Time Management
Self Esteem
Social Isolation
Stress
Grief
Anxiety
Sexual Orientation
Depression
Study Skills/Academics
Anger Management
Sexual Assault/Rape
Alcohol/Drugs
Family
Q: What would an appointment be like?
Students sit down with a counselor to discuss the situation and evaluate options for addressing their areas of concern. The role of the counselor is to listen nonjudgmentally and prompt you to examine your own thinking, rather than deciding for you or giving advice.
Q: Are the services at the Office of Counseling Services confidential?
As required by law, counseling sessions at the Office of Counseling Services are confidential. No information is disclosed to anyone (e.g. parents, professors, administration) in any identifiable manner without prior written consent from the student. The exceptions are when a student is in danger of harming him/herself or others when there is suspected elderly or child abuse, or when a judge mandates disclosure to a court of law.
Q: Does the fact that I went to counseling end up on my transcript or school records?
As stated above, counseling sessions are confidential. Your participation in counseling is not recorded on your transcript or school records.
Q: Does the Office of Counseling Services have a psychiatrist?
The Office of Counseling Services has a consulting psychiatrist that meets with students. It is a free, voluntary service provided for students who feel they might benefit from discussing their symptoms with a psychiatrist and discuss the option of medication.
Q: Do I need to have an appointment to see a counselor?
Yes, you need an appointment to see a counselor. To schedule, an appointment students can walk-in or contact the office by phone at (850) 599-3145.
