Residence Life
WELCOME TO THE OFF-CAMPUS HOUSING EXPERIENCE! |
Information for Students Living Off Campus
Several of our Messiah students are given the opportunity and privilege of living off campus in rental homes and apartments. Students have rights and responsibilities as community members in Central Pennsylvania. They are obligated to honor their commitments to Messiah’s community standards as outlined in the Community Covenant and the Student Handbook. In addition to these College standards, off-campus students are also expected to abide by the local laws and ordinances of their communities.
It is expected that students living off campus will be good ambassadors of Christ and Messiah College.
Living off campus increases your personal freedom but also adds a new set of responsibilities to your day-to-day life. Aside from paying utility bills and buying groceries, you'll also need to be aware of the people living around you. In the residence halls, your neighbors were all other students. But now that you're off campus, it's important to remember that the people next door may have children, full-time jobs, and long-term investments in their property and neighborhood.
Take the time to introduce yourself to your neighbors and get to know them. At the very least, familiarize yourself with the regulations and programs of your local city or borough that affect you as an off-campus resident.
Learn about joining your neighborhood association or review the city tenant/landlord legislation. Find information about trash pick-up, recycling, parking permits, and other laws. If you choose to be inconsiderate and ignore the rules,be aware that there may be consequences from the city or the neighborhood association..
Students who are found responsible of violating College and/or local community standards will have the privilege of living off campus revoked. This will result in the student’s return to on-campus housing.
Finally, our hope is that your off-campus living experience will continue your growth in being a citizen of intellect, character and Christian faith.
Rhonda Good
Director of Housing
updated 9/25/08
