Tammy Walters Director of Conferences and Housing twalters@olivetcollege.edu Dole Hall (269) 749-7611

This section of the Web site includes a general overview of residence life at Olivet College. For more specific information, please see the Residence Life section of the Student Handbook.

Student Housing Links
General Information
Guidelines for Loft Construction (pdf file)
License Agreement: FAQs
Olivet College Meal Plans
Residence Halls
Room and Board Exemption Form (pdf file)
Theme House and Greek Housing Exemption Form (pdf file)
What to bring, what to leave at home

Residency Requirement
All full-time students are required to reside in college approved housing and to participate in a college meal plan. Exemptions from the policy are granted for students who meet any of the following criteria: 23 years of age, completed 88 semester hours of credit, married, single parent, living with parent(s) or legal guardian(s), or special situations approved by the vice president of student life.

Students seeking exemption from the policy must complete a Room and Board Exemption Form available in the Housing Office. Completed forms must be submitted to the Housing office before the last day of drop and add. Petitions will be evaluated by the Housing Office. If an exemption request is denied, an appeal may be made to the vice president of student life.

Residence Life Staff
The Residence Life office is led by the Director for Residence Life who oversees housing administration and security management of the residence hall system and supervises the Residence Life staff.

Each of the three residence halls is staffed with a Hall Director (HD) who lives in the building and oversees a staff of 5-8 Resident Advisors (RAs). The HD is a full-time professional who serves as the educational leader for the building. The RA is an upperclass student who is trained as a peer counselor and advisor responsible for developing a strong community on his/her wing or floor.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Appliances and Electronics
Stereos, TV computers and other small appliances are permitted in residence hall rooms. In addition, each room is permitted to have one microwave (not to exceed 850 watts) and one refrigerator (not to exceed 4 cubic feet). Hot pots are also permitted. Cooking appliances (other than hot pots or small microwaves) and halogen lamps are strictly prohibited

Cable television
Free basic cable TV connections are provided in each residence hall room. Students should bring their own cable-ready TV or VCR to connect to this service. Connections are via standard coaxial cable, which the student should provide.

Campus Mail
The Mailroom is located in the lower level of the Kirk Center, where U.S. Mail and UPS parcels can be sent and received. After arriving on campus, each student is assigned a mailbox number. Incoming mail should be addressed as follows:

Food Service
Dining services at Olivet College are provided through Chartwells. Chartwells offers flexible meal plans, allowing students to choose 10, 15, or 19 meals per week. Meals in the centrally-located Kirk Center dining hall are all-you-can-eat. Chartwells also operates the Comet Caf? Snack Bar, which has extended hours for students with busy schedules. Students with special scheduling or dietary needs can speak to a Chartwells food service manager to make special arrangements.

Laundry and Vending Machines
Each residence hall has coin-operated washers and dryers. There are also vending machines in each building.

Lofts
Lofts are permitted in residence hall rooms, provided that certain safety regulations are followed in their construction. The Guidelines for Loft Construction/Loft Registration Form is available from the Housing office. All lofts must be completed and registered by the first full week of October (Fall) or February (Spring). Lofts will be inspected by a licensed contractor for approval.

Lounges and Recreation Areas
Each residence hall has lounge areas equipped with comfortable furniture and big screen TV's. There are also separate, newly renovated areas designed specifically for studying. In addition, each hall has a recreation room featuring pool, foosball, and ping pong tables.

Parking
Students are assigned free campus parking permits during Roundup (at the beginning of the semester). Permits allow parking at the three residence hall, the Burrage Library, the Kirk Center, and the Upton Conservatory. A parking permit is required for use of campus lots.

Pets
Pets are NOT permitted in campus residences, with the exception of harmless fish in a 20 gallon, or smaller, tank.

Safety and Security
Each student will receive a key to his/her room which will also open the main entrance to the building or house. Though Olivet is a small and relatively safe community, it is important that each student assume responsibility for his/her own security. Keys should not be loaned, nor should rooms be left unlocked or outside doors propped open.

Smoking
On August 18, 1989, a smoke-free policy was implemented on campus. Smoking is prohibited in all buildings and offices. Anyone interested in a smoking cessation program should contact Health Services.

Telephones and Voice Mail
Each room is equipped with one telephone jack. Students should bring their own telephones. In order to make long distance calls, students must sign up for the AT&T ACUS system which provides each student with a personal access code and an individual, monthly bill. Calling cards other than ACUS may not be used on residence hall phones. Numerous pay phones on campus will accept other calling cards. For more information, see telephones in the Student Handbook.

Student may bring answering machines, but may prefer to use the campus voice mail system. A voice mail account is provided to each student free of charge, and will answer incoming calls even when someone is using the phone.

LICENSE AGREEMENT: FAQs
Each student must fill out and sign a Housing Information Form and License Agreement, which is a legally binding contract that states what the College will provide to the student as well as rights and responsibilities. Here are a few of the frequently asked questions concerning the License Agreement:

When do I get my deposit back?
The non-refundable $100 confirmation payment you submit to reserve your space at Olivet College is not a deposit. This amount is applied to your charges for the upcoming semester.

When can I move in?
The residence halls open at 12:00 Noon on the Sunday preceding the start of classes for upperclassmen in any given semester. Early arrivals must be approved by the Office of Residence Life and are only permitted for students required to be on campus prior to opening. Freshmen and new students move in on the Saturday prior to classes during the fall semester.

What if I need housing during vacations/breaks?
The residence halls are closed during formal vacation periods such as Thanksgiving Break, Winter Break, and Spring Break. A limited number of students who are required to stay on campus during these periods may be granted permission to stay, however, most students should plan to make alternate arrangements.

Can I have a single room?
A limited number of single rooms are available to upperclass students, and will be assigned to those students requesting singles with the highest GPAs and total credits earned. First year students are not eligible for single rooms.

How do I get an exemption from the residency requirement?
If you meet one or more of the criteria for exemption mentioned in the License Agreement, simply check the appropriate box on your Housing Information Form and the exemption will be granted. If you do not meet any of the criteria but wish to be considered for a special exception, please submit your request in writing to the Vice President for Community Life.

Once I have entered into the License Agreement, is it possible to break the License?
Generally, no. The License is legally binding for the duration of the agreement (usually two semesters). However, the terms of the agreement do provide for students to request a release from the in certain situations. Any approvals for release from the agreement will constitute a forfeiture of the $100 confirmation payment. Release request forms are available at the Housing Office.

STUDENT MEAL PLANS
Whether you are an incoming freshman or a returning student, we have plenty of convenient dining options for you to enjoy! Prepare to embark on one of the finest dining programs designed specifically for students! Our program has been designed to enable you to get together, eat a delicious and nutritious meal and have lots of fun! Also there are plenty of special events and innovative promotions planned. Whether you are on the go, an early riser or a health conscious diner, we are sure our program will meet your needs.

We're committed to providing quality and nutritious food with exceptional service. So, if you don't see what you want or have a question or concern, please don't hesitate to let us know. Fill out a comment card, or call us at 269-749-7378.

We hope you have a prosperous and rewarding semester here at Olivet College. See you in the dining venues!

We understand that our students make dining a social event with their friends. We also want to make sure that you never have to worry about being able to eat. That is why Standing Reservations have been designed to accommodate the various needs of our students. When signing up, be sure to select a Reservation based on your academic schedule, eating patterns and social life. 

Points:
Points are held in a "declining balance account" that works on the same principle as a debit card.  You can use your Points to purchase beverages, snacks or even a full meal in any of our retail campus dining locations. Each time you make a purchase, the purchase amount is subtracted from your Points balance, 1 point = 1 dollar. Points do carry over from semester to semester, but not from year to year. Additional Points can be added to your account at any time by visiting our office in the Kirk Center, calling us at 269-749-7378 or dropping us an email: unit14684@compass-usa.com

What Are My STANDING RESERVATION Options?
With the following Reservation Options, you will never have to worry again about being able to eat!  Having a Reservation will definitely save you money!

Carte Blanche
19 Meals Per Week and $100 Points
This Reservation offers students the greatest value as you can enjoy all 19 meals offered on campus each week in Kirk Center Cafeteria.  The $100 in points can be used as cash in any of our retail locations.

175 Block
175 Meals per Semester and $100 Points
This Reservation is designed for students who want to eat an average of two meals a day on campus. With our Block Reservations, you can use multiple meals in a meal period and use them for friends and family!  The $100 in points can be used as cash in any of our retail locations.

140 Block
140 Meals per Semester and $100 Points
This Reservation is the most versatile. With this Reservation, you can enjoy any 140 meals during the semester in the Kirk Center Cafeteria.  With our Block Reservations, you can use multiple meals in a meal period and use them for friends and family!  The $100 in points can be used as cash in any of our retail locations.

Please Note:  ALL STUDENTS living in a traditional residence hall on campus are required to purchase a STANDING RESERVATION. You can add additional Points to your account at any time in increments of $25.

Visit our office in the Kirk Center, calling us at 269-749-7378 or drop us an email: unit14684@compass-usa.com  anytime day or night to add more points to your plan.

RESIDENCE HALLS
Olivet College recognizes the residence halls as a living-learning environment. Residence life offers educational and social opportunities that promote personal growth, development, wellness and cultural diversity among residents. Olivet College operates three residence halls for students: Blair, Dole and Shipherd Halls.

Blair Hall is a men's residence hall housing new students and upper division students. Blair was built in 1928 with a new addition constructed in 1955. The hall offers common bathrooms, lounges and study rooms.

Dole Hall is a women's residence hall housing new students and upper division students. Dole was built in 1931. In addition to single, double and triple occupancy rooms. The hall offers common bathrooms, lounges and study rooms.

Shipherd Hall was built in 1966 and houses primarily upper class men and women. Shipherd is suite style with four students sharing a living space, two bedrooms and a semi-private bath/shower facility. Shipherd is co-educational by suite with a common lounge, a study room and a recreational room located in the building.

Room Furnishings and Hall Features
Each residence hall room is furnished with curtains or shades, beds, desks, desk chairs, dressers and closet space. These furnishings are the responsibility of each student and must be present and in good condition at all times.

Cable television
Free basic cable TV connections are provided in each residence hall room. Students should bring their own cable-ready TV or VCR to connect to this service. Connections are via standard coaxial cable, which the student should provide.

Computer labs
Labs are located in the Mott Academic Center, room 307 and 311a, both levels of the Burrage Library, and in the basement of the Kirk Center.  These labs are equipped with MS Windows XP networked computers and laser printers.  All computers run Microsoft Office products and are connected to the Internet.  Students are provided e-mail accounts-generally the first initial of the first name followed by the last name@olivetcollege.edu.  For example, Jane Smith would be jsmith@olivetcollege.edu.  Please contact Information Technology Services for specific computer logon and e-mail information.  ITS is located in Mott Academic Center, room 311.  Their phone number is 749-7666.

Wireless Campus
Olivet College provides high-speed wireless internet access to the entire Olivet College campus. 802.11G (54Mbps) wireless technology was implemented based upon a few factors such as mobility, ease of use, taking the class rooms out of the traditional class room boundaries, and using technology in the classrooms as well as the dorms, campus square, library and cafeteria.  If you bring a computer (Desktop/Laptop), you will need to furnish a compatible wireless (802.11G) card. You may purchase the compatible wireless card in the campus bookstore. Information Technology Services will provide you the VPN client (software that allows you to establish a secure connection between your computer and the campus network) at no charge to the student. The antivirus software is required before installing the VPN software on your computer, if you do not have one again ITS will provide you one for no charge. Please contact Information Technology Services in the Mott Academic Center, room 311 or at 749-7666 with any questions.

Wired Campus
Students are advised to use wireless connection for both surfing the internet and accessing campus network resources. There are no wired connections available for student to use. The wired network is strictly used by campus employees.

Antivirus policy
The active antivirus software is required before installing the VPN software on your computer, if you do not have one again ITS will provide you one for you at no charge. If you choose not to use college provided antivirus software it is very important that you maintain your virus definition and the software is kept up-to-date.

Computing Policy
By enrolling at Olivet College, the enrolled students are considered, by default, to have accepted the campus computing policies. ITS will keep you inform about policies and changes of them at orientation or after via campus email. You may obtain a printed copy of all computing policies from ITS.

Lounges and Recreation Areas
Each residence hall has lounge areas equipped with comfortable furniture and big screen TV's. There are also separate, newly renovated areas designed specifically for studying. In addition, each hall has a recreation room featuring pool, foosball, and ping pong tables.

Telephones and Voice Mail
Each room is equipped with one telephone jack. Students should bring their own telephones. In order to make long distance calls, students must use calling cards. Some payphones are also available on campus for student use also.

Students are encouraged to use the campus voice mail system. A voice mail account is provided to each student free of charge, and will answer incoming calls when someone is using the phone or out of the room. Voice mail ID numbers and pass codes are available at Information Technology Services in 311 Mott, or call them at 749-7666.

Student may bring answering machines, but may prefer to use the campus voice mail system. A voice mail account is provided to each student free of charge, and will answer incoming calls even when someone is using the phone.

Laundry and Vending Machines
Each residence hall has coin-operated washers and dryers. There are also vending machines in each building.

WHAT TO BRING, WHAT TO LEAVE AT HOME
The following checklist will make packing for the upcoming year an easier task. Common sense essentials (clothing, for example) are not included in the list. Contact with roommates and/or suitemates prior to arrival is strongly recommended.

Essentials

• academic essentials (backpack, pens, paper)
• alarm Clock
• bedding (extra-long twin size 36"x80")
• telephone
• towel, washcloth and toiletry items
• waste paper basket

Useful, but not essential

• cleaning supplies
• coaxial cable for TV
• computer or word processor
• desk lamp
• drying rack or clothes hangers
• extension cords
• fan
• iron and ironing board
• laundry basket/bag and supplies
• power strip with surge protector

Leave at home

• air conditioner
• candles, incense
• Christmas tree (unless artificial)
• cooking appliances (other than microwaves/hot pots)
• halogen lamps
• large appliances
• large exercise equipment
• oil lamps
• pets (other than harmless fish)
• treadmills

GREEK LIFE
The Greek system at Olivet College (Intersociety Council [ISC]) is comprised of eleven social societies (three female, five male, one co-educational and two colonies). All eleven societies, some of which are more than 100 years old, are local organizations founded at Olivet College. The Greek Life Office provides leadership advice, skills training and educational opportunities for the members of the Olivet College Greek societies. The Greek Life Office also assists the Greek societies in meeting and maintaining accreditation standards.

NOTE: All of Olivet College's societies (ISC) are governed by the Inter-Society Council (ISC). This governing organization consists of a president and seven vice presidents (each society having one ISC officer), as well as two voting representatives from each society (usually the president and vice president from each society house). The purpose of ISC is to foster unity within the Greek system at Olivet College. The ISC provides a means for democratically considering and acting upon the unique problems, conditions, and needs that arise from society life. In addition, the ISC provides a forum for the exchange of ideas among all the societies.

Society Housing
Seven of the eleven Greek societies maintain a residence for its members. Society members who have completed at least 24 semester hours toward their graduation requirements (with a 2.0 cumulative GPA or better) may reside in society housing with approval of the dean for community life and the society.

Adelphic Alpha Pi: is located across from Shipherd Hall. It was founded in 1862 and is open to the men of Olivet College. It is the brother organization to Sigma Beta. The fraternity motto is Semper Fidelis, always faithful.

Alpha Lambda Epsilon: is located at 212 South Main Street on the corner of Green and Main across from Dole Hall. Founded in 1922 as a sorority, Alpha Lambda Epsilon Society reorganized its membership in 1975 to admit men, thus becoming the first co-educational literary/social society in the nation. The society motto is Bear Well the Torch. Alpha Lambda Epsilon is the cousin organization to Kappa Sigma Alpha.

Alpha Phi Kappa: a new member of the Intersociety Council (ISC) whose main purpose is to promote better understanding between cultures and to promote brotherhood among its membership.

Alpha Xi Omega: founded as a club by the name of Elite in the 1970s, and admitted to the ISC during the Fall 1995 semester, Alpha Xi Omega works to create a better understanding among all students at Olivet College in the areas of diversity and multicultural awareness.

Kappa Sigma Alpha: is located at 204 South Main Street, just north of the Alpha Lambda Epsilon house. It was founded in 1922, and is the cousin organization to Alpha Lambda Epsilon. The fraternity motto is Wisdom Conquers All.

Nu Gamma Xi: is located at 502 Shipherd St. It is a sorority founded on February 3, 1997 by 12 women and is the sister organization to Alpha Xi. on the campus of Olivet College to address the unique needs and interest of a cultural diverse population of students. A charter was granted whereby Nu Gamma Xi was founded to promote unity, sisterhood, and high academic standards among women with similar interest. They are devoted to a strong sisterhood based in patience, respect, and understanding.

Phi Alpha Pi: is located on South Main Street just across from Blair Hall. It is the oldest society on the Olivet College campus and was founded in 1847. In 1861 Phi Alpha Pi, the brother organization to Soronian, became a literary society. The fraternity motto is Progress, Truth, and Friendship.

Sigma Beta: literary sorority was founded in 1907 by three Olivet College women. The current house, located at 508 South Main Street (across from Blair Hall), was completed in 1963. Sigma Beta is the sister society to Adelphic Alpha Pi. Their motto is Friends of the Best.

Soronian (Iota Kappa Omicron): also known as the Iota Kappa Omicron society, is located next to the Margaret Upton Conservatory of Music and across from the Lester K. Kirk Center. Founded in 1847, the sister organization to Phi Alpha Pi is the oldest collegiate society in the continental United States. The sorority motto is Strong in Love, Firm in Right.