Common Questions
Why does Eastern University require residency for College of Arts and Sciences Students?
Eastern University has always been a residential campus. We invest in new buildings as our population grows. All students who entered Eastern in the Fall of 2006 and after are required to be resident students as long as space is available. That policy is on the deposit form that all students receive and return with their admissions acceptance and deposit.
Students who live in college managed housing communities (residence halls) experience greater personal, spiritual, emotional growth, and are more engaged in college life overall, which leads to better grades, more personal growth and an array of positive interpersonal skills that become valuable assets in later life in both jobs and the home (Kuh et al, 1991).
Commuting students overall have lower grades, are less engaged, and experience more roommate tensions and personal problems than residents. Younger commuters often find themselves with too many choices and negative peer pressure, and they make wrong choices that cause all sorts of problems.
Kuh, G: Schuh, John H.; Whitt, Elizabeth J.; and associates, (1991) Involving Colleges, Jossey Bass, San Francisco
May I bring a car?
No. First Year students will do better socially and academically without a vehicle. We strongly discourage First Years from bringing vehicles. A very limited amount of First Year parking spaces are available for convenience. These spots are located in an off campus lot, and we do not provide transportation to or from the lot. There are plenty of public transportation opportunities near campus, plus local shopping that is within walking distance. Parking space is very limited. All vehicles are required to have a parking permit. If you have questions about parking policy or procedure, contact the Director of Safety and Security, Jack Sheehan at 610-341-1720.
Do I need Renter’s Insurance?
All students should carry renter's insurance for your personal belongings. Whether in your room, in storage or even during a storm, accidents happen. It’s always better to be prepared. The University will not replace or reimburse in the event of loss of personal items.
Do I need a personal computer?
It would be great if everyone could afford their own personal computer, but you don’t have to have one. Eastern University has over 80 computers in the library, residence halls and computer labs for students to use for email, Internet and for writing papers.
If you do have your own computer, you can bring it with you to use in your room, and you will be able to access the University's server through Ethernet and/or wireless means. We guarantee one computer hookup per room. Don’t forget your surge protector!
Do I need to bring a phone/answering machine?
No! Each room at Eastern is provided with a telephone and with individual and private voice mail that can be accessed from any phone on campus and in the world. Each student is given their own personal account. Students are billed for all non-local calls.
May I come to see my room?
The residence halls are not available during the summer until the move in date for tours during the summer as they are used for conference groups. If you tour Eastern through the Admissions Office, you will be able to see a room, but this room may not be the exact kind of room to which you have been or will be assigned.
Will my sheets fit my bed?
The beds and mattress sizes in the residence halls differ. We suggest having extra long sheets to ensure they fit (better to have a little extra to tuck in than be short and not fit at all!)
Do I need curtains?
Each window has mini blinds. Therefore it is not necessary to have curtains in the rooms. However, one can purchase an adjustable spring curtain rod and curtains to spice up the decor if desired. Wait until you arrive and talk to you roommate. Specific measurements are not available during the summer.
Do I need a TV/VCR?
You may bring these items with you, but we suggest one per room. Please talk with your roommate regarding the sharing of these items. It is not necessary to have a TV because at least one lounge in the residence hall is equipped with each. The TVs in the lounges are hooked up with cable access, but rooms are not. Besides, who has time to watch TV when there is so much to learn and so many new people to meet!?! (We recommend that you purchase surge protectors for these items!)
What furniture is in my room?
Each room has closet space, a bed, a desk, a chair, and a dresser for each student. We have very limited storage space, so University furniture can not be removed from the room. We discourage the use of lofts. Do not bring one unless you have received permission in advance.
May I bring small appliances? Which ones can I bring?
We permit small appliances to be used in the residence halls. Appliances must be in good working condition and may not have an open coil. Those permitted are: small microwave, small refrigerator (no larger than 4 cubic feet), toaster, toaster ovens, and hot pots. All appliances must be in good working order, no frayed cords, exposed wires, etc. No hot plates, space heaters or halogen lamps/bulbs are permitted. Please contact your roommate to decide who will bring which item (We recommend that you purchase surge protectors for these items too!)
Helpful Hint:
Call your roommates. Find out what each other has, so you don’t end up bringing too much of everything.
Other Questions?
Contact the Coordinator of Housing
