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Residential Communities

Miami University's Office of Residence Life gives you several housing options that support your success at Miami. Students can choose which community type best meets their needs for their residential experience. As a first-year student, you pick three to five options on your housing form. Upper-class students also get unique communities that strengthen their campus experience. Many rising upper-class students join the spring housing lottery, but you can also choose from special communities for second-year or continuing students.

Living Learning Communities (LLC)

A Living Learning Community (LLC) is a group of students who live together on a corridor or in a residence hall that is closely tied to an academic major, university program, or initiative. Miami further organizes LLCs in nine residential neighborhoods. 

Residence Hall Neighborhoods

Explore our living learning communities, listed below by neighborhood.

Elliott Hall located in the Academic Quad

Leadership Neighborhood

The Leadership Neighborhood is where students can develop their leadership skills. It provides a supportive environment for residents to learn through engaging programs, community involvement, and collaborative projects. This community is an ideal home for students who want to make their mark at Miami.

Dorsey Hall on East Quad

Creativity Neighborhood

The Creativity Neighborhood is a campus community designed for students who want to discover and express themselves through the arts, design, innovation, and entrepreneurship. It's a dynamic and inspiring living space where residents can connect with other creative minds and bring their ideas to life.

Withrow Hall on North Quad

Impact Neighborhood

The Impact Neighborhood brings together students with a common goal of making a positive impact. Residents from a variety of backgrounds connect with like-minded peers, collaborate on meaningful projects, and develop the skills needed to create positive change. This is a unique community for students who want to make a difference.

Hahne Hall

STEM+ Neighborhood

The STEM+ Neighborhood is a community for students passionate about science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine. STEM+ brings together students from a variety of fields, including engineering, pre-medical studies, nursing, science, and more. This is an ideal space for those who want to connect with peers and grow in their STEM+ pursuits.

Hillcrest Hall

Honors Residential College

The Honors Residential College offers a required residential experience for incoming first-year students at Miami University. It provides a supportive home where students build a strong network of peers, engage in intellectual discussions, and participate in special programming. As space allows, returning Honors students may also live in the neighborhood.

MacCracken Hall on Central Quad

Sorority Neighborhood

The Sorority Neighborhood is a vibrant and close-knit community where students live with their "sisters" in a shared residential space. This neighborhood is a central hub for sorority life, offering a unique living experience that goes beyond a typical residence hall.

Emerson Hall in South Quad

Compass Neighborhood

The Compass Neighborhood gives guidance and direction for you as you navigate the diverse opportunities at the university. A compass is a tool for exploration and finding your way, which perfectly captures the purpose of this neighborhood.

Living Learning Communities

Explore Miami's living learning communities, listed below in alphabetical order.

Bridges Scholars

The Bridges Scholars Living Learning Community (LLC) brings together students who have completed the Bridges Program for high school seniors. Participants in this living learning community will engage in activities to help facilitate their transition to Miami, build community with both other Bridges Scholars LLC participants and the broader Bridges Scholars community on campus, and be introduced to the Bridges Scholars student organization.

Potential Events and Activities

  • Welcome event
  • Bridges Scholars student organization membership
  • Volunteering with the Bridges program for high school seniors

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Celebrate the Arts

The Celebrate the Arts Living Learning Community (LLC) is open to students who have been active in the arts or want to take up an artistic interest for the first time. Residents who live in this community will have the opportunity to work with faculty from the College of Creative Arts, the Art Museum, Performing Arts Series, guest artists, and fellow residents to explore creative pursuits in the visual and performing arts.

Required Course

CCA 182. Experiencing the Arts (1 credit hour). Introduction to various arts. Attendance at art events is required.

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Civic Thought and Practice

The Civic Thought and Practice Living Learning Community (CTP) is a vibrant residential learning program that empowers Miami students to engage in courageous, honest, and respectful conversations about the fundamental questions of human and civic life. Through programming focused on civic knowledge and meaningful dialogue, CTP fosters the habits, dispositions, and skills required for students to address difficult questions, embrace diversity of ideas, and contribute thoughtfully to society.

Through engaging discussions, shared experiences, and faculty-led programming, students will build the confidence to navigate complex ideas and different perspectives with curiosity and respect. Opportunities include faculty-led reading groups, movie nights, and “in-the-news” item discussions. Students will also have access to distinguished guest lecturers and scholars through events hosted by the Center for Civics, Culture, and Society.

Residents of CTP will be able to:

  • Engage in deep and meaningful discussions by practicing respectful disagreement and thoughtful dialogue on a variety of questions.
  • Build strong peer connections and supportive friendships based on the shared exploration of the central questions of human and civic life.
  • Clarify personal and academic goals by reflecting on questions of purpose, interests, and happiness for their time at Miami and beyond.
  • Apply for a one-year $5,000 stipend if they choose to minor in Civic Thought.

Required Course

CIV 201: Introduction to Civic Thought (3 credit hours; fulfills Miami Plan). This course investigates the human capacity for living civically—constituting communities of citizens who share power and responsibility for common action. It will introduce you to ways the human potential to think and act as a citizen has been realized in different historical forms. Because citizenship is always exercised in a particular context, we will pay special attention to our own context—the history and practice of the American self-government, with its distinctive shortcomings and accomplishments. And because civic life is always developing in response to new challenges and opportunities, this course aims to cultivate the civic habits of thought that will help you better play your own, unprecedented role in this distinctively human undertaking.

If you have questions or need more information, please contact Flagg Taylor, Executive Director for the Center for Civics, Culture, and Society, at taylorff@MiamiOH.edu

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Education, Families, and Society

The Education, Families, and Society Living Learning Community offers first-year students the opportunity to explore themes and issues related to the pursuit of careers in education, helping professions, and being instruments of change in our society. We invite students to join this community who plan to study teacher education, family studies, or social work, as well as any other students who are interested in using their influence to make the world a better place. Students will have the opportunity to interact with peers in and out of the classroom through activities focused on their passion for helping others.

Potential Events and Activities

  • Adopt-a-School
  • Urban immersions
  • Book club with faculty
  • Exploring international opportunities
  • Guest speakers in hall
  • Involvement with campus and national organizations

This community has close connections with the Urban Teaching Cohort.

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Emerging Leaders

The Emerging Leaders Living Learning Community (LLC) prepares students to enact positive change. This community is designed for first-year students to intentionally continue their leadership journey. Participants are empowered to find their voice and recognize their potential to lead at Miami University and throughout their lifetime. Any interested student is welcome to apply to join our community and no previous leadership experience is required - just the desire to come learn and lead with us!

The Emerging Leaders LLC is supported by the Center for Student Engagement, Activities, and Leadership. Participants will have priority consideration for participation in the U-Lead pre-semester program. Participation is limited and a minimum of 25 Emerging Leader LLC students will be admitted to the U-Lead program.

U-Lead is an engaging experience designed to introduce incoming students to everything their Miami experience has in store for them. U-Lead participants learn about leadership through exploring values based leadership, team building activities, community engagement, and more! Participants will have time to think about extracurricular involvement and leadership opportunities so they can maximize their time at Miami! U-Lead participants will form meaningful connections with peers, find leadership opportunities at Miami and explore the broader Oxford community.

Potential Events and Activities

  • Student leader panel discussion on how to get involved in student organizations to enhance and participate in leadership roles early in your Miami experience.
  • Access to the SEAL Ambassadors as involvement mentors.
  • Participation in and access to the Wilks Institute for Leadership and Service's Leadership and Service Certificate program.
  • Priority consideration for participation for limited space in the U-Lead pre-semester program; 25 spots will be held for Emerging Leader participants.

Recommended Course

EDL 290E: Emerging Leaders. This is a two-credit course for students interested in exploring multiple approaches to leadership and building capacity for socially responsible leadership. The course involves engaged learning through community action work, skill building, reading, writing, analysis, and dialogue. This course is exclusively for students living in the Emerging Leaders LLC.

You may be registered for the course before orientation. If you are not enrolled in the course and you would like to be, please contact Sarah Meaney at Meaneys@MiamiOH.edu.

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Entrepreneurship

If you’re curious about how to make things better, you belong here.

Entrepreneurship isn’t just about launching businesses. It’s about seeing possibilities where others see problems and using your creative mindset to shape a better future for yourself, for others, and for the world around you.

The Entrepreneurship Living Learning Community is a place for curious students who love to ask questions, explore ideas, and take action. You’ll live alongside others who share your drive to experiment, collaborate, and make an impact, whether that means designing a product, reimagining a process, or starting a movement.

As part of this community, you’ll gain exclusive access to the people, programs, and opportunities that power Miami’s Top 10 nationally ranked entrepreneurship program. You’ll have the opportunity to make meaningful connections with faculty mentors, attend workshops, and take part in hands-on experiences that help you turn ideas into action.

Whether you’re drawn to business innovation, social causes, creative ventures, or simply wondering what’s possible, this community is where curiosity becomes impact.

If you choose this LLC as your first choice on your housing application, we’ll send a short survey to your Miami email. Your responses help us get to know your interest in the community and make selections if more students apply than we can accommodate.

Please note, all requested roommates must also complete this survey and be selected for the community in order for you to be paired together as roommates in the LLC. If one roommate is not selected for the LLC, you will be kept together and placed in another residence hall.

Required Courses

ESP 101: The Rewards and Challenges of an Entrepreneurial Life (fall 2026, 1 credit hour). A required one-credit-hour first-year hybrid online-live course. This course will explore entrepreneurship through activities, explorations, and team activities. Students learn what it means to be an entrepreneur and how to use entrepreneurship to pursue passions in business, their community, and personal lives. Students will be exposed to both the rewards associated with entrepreneurship and the risks. Students will have the opportunity to use the course content to develop and execute a collaborative project that incorporates the verticals of entrepreneurship.

ESP 102: Startup Weekend (fall 2026, 1 credit hour). As a member of the Entrepreneurship LLC you are required to participate in Startup Weekend. An immersive event with the goal of experiencing the range of entrepreneurial problems and emotions all in one weekend. From the process of idea generation to building a prototype culminating in a pitch to a panel of judges, this weekend experience will test your limits as an entrepreneur and help you grow your potential - all while earning ESP102 credit!

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Environmental Awareness Program (EAP)

The Environmental Awareness Program Living Learning Community (LLC) is an amazing opportunity for students of any major interested in living with other students who enjoy the outdoors and/or are concerned about environmental issues. The activities in this community will focus on exploring the environment in Oxford and surrounding areas, exploring topics such as sustainability and local organic foods, and connecting with faculty members. Students in the Environmental Awareness Program will also learn about curricular and co-curricular opportunities related to sustainability and the environment.

Potential Events and Activities

  • Live animal demonstration
  • Camping and hiking
  • Dinner with environmental and sustainability faculty
  • Greenhouse tour
  • Miami Farm visit and volunteering
  • Farmer's Market visit

Recommended Course

IES 274. Introduction to Environment and Sustainability. (3 credit hours). Introduction to environmental and sustainability principles from social science and natural science perspectives. Critical analysis of environment and sustainability-related problems and resolution strategies. Review of foundational concepts and case studies, which may include environmental history, biotic and natural resources, energy and climate, planning and design, organizational management and policy, and sustainable development.

You may be registered for the course before orientation. If you are not enrolled in the course and you would like to be, please contact Sarah Meaney at Meaneys@MiamiOH.edu

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Explore Miami (Open to All Majors)

The Explore Miami Living Learning Community is designed for students interested in exploring a variety of opportunities at Miami University. In this LLC, students will be exposed to multiple university involvement opportunities, academic resources, and athletic events.

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Film and Video Making

The Film and Video Making Living Learning Community (LLC) will provide students in any major an opportunity to live with other students who are interested in video and film production. The community will partner with the Department of Media, Journalism, and Film (MJF) to support students in programming efforts.

Benefits

  • Connect new students with other new students with similar interests
  • Connect new students with faculty and staff in Media, Journalism, and Film
  • Engage students in some aspects of video production
  • Access to quality equipment which they otherwise would not get to use in the Media, Journalism, and Film major until their second or third year

Potential Events and Activities

  • Small team video production challenges
  • Movie watch parties and discussions
  • Oscars ceremony watch party
  • Dinner and discussion with faculty
  • Attend a local film festival and meet the filmmakers
  • Host visiting filmmakers and industry professionals to talk about their careers

Required Course (you will be assigned to one of the following)

MJF 105. Introduction to Media and Culture (Fulfills MPF, MPT). Introduction to major mass communication theories as a context to examining some major issues surrounding mass media in American society.  

FST 201. Film History and Analysis (Fulfills MPF, MPT). Introduction to basic principles of cinematic form and to major movements and issues in the history of cinema. Primary emphasis is given to principal methods of critical thinking in film studies, from close analysis of formal and stylistic elements in a single film to more global ways of understanding and interpreting films within their aesthetic, social, historical, and political contexts.

MJF 146. Foundations of Production.
This course introduces concepts and practices central to video production work across MJF areas. Students learn the basics of graphic design, sound, image composition, editing, and story through lectures, hands-on workshops, and assignments in which students make short films.

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First Year Research Experience (FYRE)

The 2026-27 FYRE LLC will be restricted to the STEMM Scholars Program in the College of Arts and Science and will focus on science, technology, equity in public health, and medicine (and health pre-professionals). All incoming first-year students in STEMM Scholars are required to live in the FYRE LLC. This community (LLC) provides students with opportunities to explore and engage in undergraduate research experiences, learn about resources on campus related to undergraduate research, and participate in team-based exploratory projects under the guidance of research-active faculty. Students will also participate in activities in the residence hall that complement the STEMM Scholars overall program to assist with their transition to college and enhance academic success. Students in STEMM Scholars may request non-STEMM Scholars as roommates in the FYRE LLC.

Required Courses

UNV 171 (fall semester) and UNV 172 (spring semester). First Year Research Experience (FYRE) Courses.

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Games + Simulation

The Games + Simulation Living Learning Community (LLC) is for students looking to explore Games + Simulation as a major or are interested in the subject area. Whether you are a competitive or casual player or are interested in building worlds and telling stories, this is a creative community for all. Students will engage with various forms of creativity, play, and imagination and meet others who enjoy interacting with the world through play.

Potential Events and Activities

  • Free entry to intramural eSports tournaments
  • Trips to watch national finals for eSports tournaments  
  • Access to in-hall gaming systems
  • Community dinners with Emerging Technology in Business and Design (ETBD) faculty members
  • Connection to a vast array of gaming student organizations
  • Exclusive access to special guests attending Geekcon

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Global Connections

The Global Connections Living Learning Community (LLC) is home to first-year students and hosts a diverse mixture of students from across the country and all over the world. Students select Global Connections because of their shared interests in travel, studying languages, and exploring other cultures. Global Connections is a tight-knit, living learning community where students build strong bonds with one another.

In Global Connections, students will experience:

  • An inclusive community that emphasizes building personal relationships with students from other parts of the world with different backgrounds and values.
  • An engaged and open atmosphere where students will explore current global topics and various cultures, traditions and perspectives.
  • A living environment with a focus on culturally conscious understanding and intercultural communication.
  • Membership within the Community Leadership Team, where students can develop leadership skills, become involved in planning hall activities, and get connected with one another.

Potential Events and Activities

Students will also have the opportunity to plan and participate in numerous cultural programs throughout the year. Past programs have included:

  • International festivals: learn about the history, traditions, and food of such holidays as Lunar New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, Day of the Dead, and more!
  • Study abroad 101, Global Readiness Certificate, and more sessions to share how and when to pursue global learning opportunities.
  • Collaborative programs with campus partners, such as: Education Abroad, and International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS).
  • Campus events, such as: Tea Tasting and Global Friendship Picnics and more!
  • Off-campus excursions to places of local and cultural interest, such as: Jungle Jim’s International Market, Asian Food Festival, Maple Syrup Fest at Hueston Woods, corn maze, and more!

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Government Relations Network

The Government Relations Network (GRN) Living Learning Community, sponsored by Miami University’s Office of Advancing State Priorities, Igniting Regional Economies (ASPIRE), welcomes students from all majors interested in exploring the confluence of innovation, industry, and government. GRN members engage with professionals in government, economic development, entrepreneurship, and innovation. In addition to professional networking opportunities, the GRN offers hands-on experiences to develop leadership and advocacy skills.

As a GRN LLC member, you will have the opportunity to earn professional certificates, and you’ll have access to first-semester on-campus internships through ASPIRE’s Government Relations Network and the Lee and Rosemary Fisher Innovation College@Elm. LLC members may be invited to meet with campus and community leaders, government officials, and alumni at the Ohio Statehouse, on Capitol Hill, and throughout Washington, D.C. You’ll join peers from various backgrounds, participate in meaningful events, and gain professional tools to pursue your career goals.

Highlights

  • Access to first-semester, on-campus internships supporting government relations, economic development, or innovation.
  • Advance your skills in advocacy, communication, professionalism, and critical thinking.
  • Engage with government professionals and learn about the legislative process across multiple levels of government.
  • Mentorship from GRN students and alumni.

Potential Events and Activities

  • GRN Networking Events
  • Fisher Innovation College@Elm Programs
  • Fall Statehouse Day Conference in Columbus
  • ENGAGE Conference in D.C.
  • Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference in D.C. and Columbus

Required Course

EDL 110: The University and the Student. Participate in a one-credit section of EDL 110 dedicated to learning about university resources and to gain and practice networking skills that are specifically set aside for the participants in the Governmental Relations Network LLC.

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Guys in Engineering and Computing (GiEC)

The Guys in Engineering and Computing (GiEC) Living Learning Community (LLC) is an academically focused group of young men who will live together in an environment to further their opportunity for involvement with faculty and build a community. Activities in this community include faculty dinners, educational media presentations, trips related to engineering and computer science, as well as service learning opportunities.

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HASS Scholars

All incoming first-year students in the Humanities and Social Science (HASS) Scholars Program in the College of Arts and Science are required to live in the HASS Scholars LLC. The HASS Scholars LLC is the residential component of the Humanities and Social Science (HASS) Scholars Program. The LLC provides students with opportunities to explore and engage in activities that build community and lifelong friendships. It aims to complement the HASS Scholars program in assisting students with their transition to college and in achieving academic success, personal and professional development, and engaging with the Miami community. Residents of the HASS Scholars LLC may request non-HASS Scholars as roommates.

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HawkFit Health and Wellness

The HawkFit Health and Wellness Living Learning Community (LLC) is ideal for students who want to focus on multiple dimensions of health and wellness. Students will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of programs, special events, and workshops including health assessments, instructional clinics, and group fitness activities.

Program Fee: Students accepted into this community will be charged a $175 program fee. The purpose of this program fee is to cover the cost of the programs.

Required Course

EDL 110: The University and the Student (1 credit hour).

Learning Outcomes

  • Develop a sense of belonging in the residence hall and the larger university community.
  • Research the various university programs, people, careers, leisure activities, and support structures in place within the community.
  • Investigate components of eight dimensions of wellness to construct a personal mission statement and action plan.
  • Explore various components of health assessment and definitions of what it means to be healthy.

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Honors Residential College

Live. Learn. Lead - Together.

At Miami University, the Honors Residential College (HRC) is more than a place to live, it’s the foundation of your Honors College journey and where your time as a Miami University student truly begins. Created in partnership with the Honors College, the HRC offers a vibrant community that supports and challenges students to explore their passions, form meaningful connections, and design a self-directed educational experience.

Students in the HRC get a head start on their Miami experience through early arrival and move-in, paired with participation in the Honors College Launch for Success program. This pre-semester experience allows new Honors students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff, begin shaping their academic and personal goals, and receive an official welcome into the Miami Honors College community.

Inside the HRC, students find a living and learning environment that bridges academic, social, and co-curricular life. With guidance from residence life staff who work closely with the Honors College, residents are encouraged to think deeply, take initiative, and grow as emerging citizen scholars while using their learning to make a positive impact.

The HRC primarily serves first-year Honors students, who are guaranteed a space in the community. As space allows, upper-level Honors students are invited to return, enriching the experience with mentorship, leadership, and continuity.

Hallmarks of the Honors Residential College include:

  • Early Arrival and Launch for Success: Start strong and build lasting connections before the semester begins.
  • Leadership Opportunities: Engage through the Honors Student Advisory and Activities Board (HSAB), Community Leadership Team, or as an Honors Ambassador.
  • Collaborative Support: Live among peers and staff who understand and are ready to help you champion your own unique collegiate journey.
  • At the Honors Residential College, you’ll find more than a residence hall, you’ll find a community that inspires you to live fully, learn deeply, and lead boldly.

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Leadership and Sport

The Leadership and Sport LLC builds off the Miami Recreation Leadership Academy and focuses on students who are interested in leadership roles in health, recreation, wellness or sport. This might include recreation jobs on campus, club sport participation, coaching, officiating, or career endeavors.

Program Fee: To enrich your living-learning experience, a $75 program fee is charged at the beginning of the year. This fee directly supports exclusive experiences, activities, and workshops designed to enhance your growth within the community.

Learning Outcomes

  • Develop a sense of belonging in the residence hall and the larger university community.
  • Connect with Miami leaders and alumni in sport, health and recreation fields.
  • Identify key components of leadership including authenticity, community, innovation and connection.
  • Develop new ideas and implement within the Miami community.
  • Create an action oriented personal leadership blueprint.

Potential Events and Activities

  • Complete StrengthsFinder assessment.
  • First semester book club and a second semester option to take EDL 290R (The Nature of Group Leadership).
  • Attendance of SCENE Career Fair to meet potential employers.
  • Connection to the Friends of Miami Recreation alumni network and idea funding.
  • Options to attend a variety of workshops and special events.

Required Experience

Students will participate in the Miami Recreation Leadership Academy as five-week course in common. Meeting times will be arranged by Miami Recreation over the summer.

If you have questions or need more information, please contact Mike Arnos, Miami University Recreation Center, at 513-529-8179 or arnosmp@MiamiOH.edu

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Love.Honor.Pride. Affinity Community

The Love.Honor.Pride. affinity community is a space for LGBTQIA+ students and their allies during their residential experience at Miami. Students within this community will have opportunities to connect to LGBTQ+ initiatives, engage in student organizations, and build community. This community supports students in choosing (or being placed with) a roommate of any gender. 

Gender-inclusive housing is also available outside of the Love.Honor.Pride. community and students are asked to complete an online gender inclusive housing form to provide information for a better roommate pairing.

Recommended Course

WGS 202: Introduction to GLBT Studies. This three-credit course is an introduction to the scholarly field of GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender) Studies. The course provides the intellectual foundation for the further study of non-normative genders and sexualities. The course fulfills one of the following general education requirements: IC, IIB, PA-3B, PA-4B, and CAS-B. 

Students living in Love.Honor.Pride. will have first priority in signing up for the class and enrollment will only be opened if there are still seats available after orientation in June. If you would like to enroll in the course, please contact Sarah Meaney at meaneys@MiamiOH.edu

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Mallory Wilson Center Pre-Health LLC

Healthcare has become a team effort and offers an incredible variety of career possibilities. The Mallory-Wilson Center (MWC) Pre-Health Living Learning Community (LLC) brings together students interested in pursuing a career in a healthcare pathway. The MWC LLC programming will help students explore the fields of healthcare so they can learn about career opportunities and make informed career choices. Students in the community will take core courses required for admission to essentially all health professions schools, and the MWC Pre-Health LLC support systems will help students as they navigate those first challenging courses.

Potential Events and Activities

  • Pre-health professions advisor exclusive office hours
  • Study groups
  • Suture workshops
  • Medical school visits and tours
  • Programs to connect with upper-class students

Required Course

PMD 101: Explorations in Healthcare Careers (1 credit hour). Explores the various career pathways in healthcare and helps students considering a career in a healthcare field develop a comprehensive plan of preparation for admission to medical school or other healthcare professional schools. This professional development course is for all students considering a career in healthcare. 

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Nursing

The Nursing Living Learning Community (LLC) is designed for directly admitted Oxford nursing students in their first and second years. This community enables students to connect with their nursing peers for academic and personal support. The Nursing LLC programming provides opportunities for students to engage with nursing faculty and further explore the discipline of nursing. In addition to residing together in an LLC, each cohort of nursing students takes the same Nursing Core courses. Participation in the LLC supports success in those courses by making it convenient for students to form study groups and take part in weekly study tables. 

Potential Events and Activities

  • Faculty meet and greet
  • Panel of current Nursing upper-class students
  • Panel of Nursing professionals

Required Course

NSG 111. This course orients students to the Nursing program, introduces students to different Nursing specialties, explores strategies to increase resilience and manage stress within the program and profession, and allows an opportunity to engage with Nursing faculty.

All nursing students are strongly encouraged to live in the Nursing LLC for their first year. Second-year nursing students also have the option to live in a Nursing Student Created Community. Students are also strongly encouraged to room with other Nursing students.

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Out of State Affinity Community

Affinity communities allow students to choose to live with peers who share some type of similar experience, thus allowing for greater peer and staff support. The Out of State affinity community is for students who are from outside the state of Ohio. The community supports these students by helping ease the transition and assist in making Miami University and Ohio their home for the next few years.

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Outdoor Pursuits

The Outdoor Pursuits Living Learning Community (OPLLC), sponsored by Miami's Outdoor Pursuit Center, is ideal for students who are passionate about the outdoors and seek to enhance their understanding of adventure activities like backpacking, rock climbing and paddle sports. Guided by the motto "Live, Learn, Play," the OPLLC allows students to live together in an exclusive residence hall, learn through a required 2-credit course (SLM 150), and play via hands-on programs described below.

Program Fee: To enrich your living-learning experience, a $75 program fee is charged at the beginning of the year. This fee directly supports exclusive experiences, activities, and workshops designed to enhance your growth within the community.

Potential Events and Activities (included with fee)

  • LLC kick-off event admission
  • LLC exclusive t-shirt
  • Miami's adventure race
  • Belay training at Miami University's Climbing Center, including complimentary climbing shoe and harness rentals
  • Complimentary personal use of Outdoor Pursuit Center rental equipment
  • Workshops in areas such as canoeing, rock wall setting, and backcountry stove use
  • Fun events such as a group night hike, and campfires with s’mores

Required Course

SLM 150: Outdoor Pursuit Activities. This course includes leisure, recreational, and environmental pursuits. Instruction provided in basic skills, knowledge, and social behavior necessary for competent participation. Instruction at the Miami Rec Center and other outdoor locations.

Choose your adventure! The lab fee includes an overnight field experience where you can either whitewater raft on the Ocoee River in Tennessee or enjoy a campout at Hueston Woods State Park. This incredible trip, along with all the necessary equipment and instruction for the course is covered by the $189 lab fee.

 

If you have questions or need more information, please contact Bill Sparks, Miami University Outdoor Pursuit Center, at 513-529-1439 or SparksW@MiamiOH.edu

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Passport

All incoming first-year students in the Farmer School of Business Passport Scholars Program are required to live in the Passport LLC, which is located in Dennison Hall. The residential component of the Passport Scholars Program will foster a sense of community and belonging in the cohort by providing workshops and other activities aimed at personal and professional growth. These activities will include career development, academic support, peer mentoring, and networking with faculty/staff.

Students in the Passport LLC live with other similarly motivated students, developing lifelong friendships and engaging in academic, experiential learning, and social experiences that contribute to personal and professional development. In an effort to create and support this vibrant community of learners, Passport students are allowed to request non-Passport students as roommates, but it is preferred that Passport Scholars room with other students in the program when possible. Requests for non-Passport roommates are not guaranteed and will be approved on a case-by-case basis as space allows.

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Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) and Military Affiliated Affinity Group

Affinity communities allow students to choose to live with peers who share some type of similar experience, thus allowing for greater peer and staff support. This community supports students who are part of the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program as well as students who are military affiliated. The community will offer initiatives geared toward supporting their transition to Miami University’s campus.

Army ROTC: Please contact Sarah Meaney at meaneys@MiamiOH.edu for special placement considerations.

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Scholar Leader

Scholar Leader is an upper-class residential living-learning community involving a one-year residence in Elliott or Stoddard Halls - two of the most historic residence halls in the nation. Endowments for each room provide partial scholarships to those students selected to live in the community. Each year, approximately 75 students are invited to join the Scholar Leader community after a multi-stage application and selection process. The Scholar Leader community encourages resident-guided programming, academic involvement, service projects, and the opportunity to explore leadership through intensive group engagement.

More information can be found at Scholar Leader.

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Sorority

The Office of Residence Life partners with the Cliff Alexander Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life and the Miami University Panhellenic Association to provide a residential experience for our newest Panhellenic members. The objectives of the Sorority LLC are to strengthen sisterhood across the community, learn about individual organizations and the Panhellenic Association, provide opportunities for engagement and discussion on topics impacting women, and foster a campus climate that supports and empowers women. The Sorority LLC provides a leadership position for Sorority members living in the LLC, the Panhellenic Residential Chair (PRC). The PRC serves as a liaison between their sorority, the Residence Life staff, and serves on the Community Leadership Team.

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Sports and Recreation

The Sports and Recreation Living Learning Community (LLC) is ideal for students who have a passion for sports and seek community building experiences through physical activity. During our evening timeblock, students will engage in a variety of sporting activities, special events, and form teams for intramural competitions. In addition to these opportunities, the LLC will host spirited interhall competitions that encourage friendly rivalry, hall pride, and deeper connections within the community.

Program Fee: Students accepted into this community will be charged a $175 program fee to cover the cost of the programs.

Learning Outcomes

  • Develop a sense of belonging in the residence hall and the larger university community.
  • Research the various university programs, people, careers, leisure activities, and support structures in place within the community.
  • Investigate the components of team dynamics and leadership.
  • Foster hall identity and collaboration through interhall competition and shared recreational experiences.

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Student-Created Communities

The Office of Residence Life offers students the chance to create and join student-created communities, allowing them to explore specific themes or interests, fostering deeper connections with peers, and contributing to their on-campus experience.

Learn more about student-created communities

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Transfer Student Affinity Community

Affinity communities will allow students to choose to live with peers who share some type of common experience, thus allowing for greater peer and staff support. The Transfer affinity community aims to ease the transition of students to Miami who might already have other collegiate experience. This community will provide information on resources to promote a student's success at Miami.

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WEST: Where Engaged Students Thrive

Tired of checking boxes to simply get to the next level of your academic and career goals? The WEST LLC houses intellectuals, activists, and others who march to their own beat and are interested in building a more fair and equitable world. The WEST LLC will support you as you design your individualized paths through college - both inside and outside of a traditional major - and its academic home (the Western Program) has been successful in this mission for nearly 50 years. Centering your own passions and assets will help you to create real change in yourself and the world. Residents will enjoy an active social community, one-on-one faculty mentorship, and priority access to campus and community programming focused on social impact and change. This LLC is open to all majors.

Potential Events and Activities

  • Field trip to Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood that includes an alternative community journey to learn about the history of the neighborhood.
  • Networking with community leaders, alumni, faculty, and staff around areas of community justice, volunteer, and internship opportunities.
  • Social and community building activities.

Required Course

WST 251 (1 credit hour). Individualized Studies Seminar. Provides students with the tools to chart their personal plan of study.

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Wellness Is Living Drug-free (WILD)

The WILD affinity community is for students who have a clear and strong desire to not use alcohol or other drugs during their college experience. This community will empower students to be their authentic selves, build connections, and have fun while navigating their college experience free of alcohol and other drugs.

Benefits

  • Live in a supportive and inclusive community
  • Gain exposure to campus resources
  • High impact engagement with staff experts
  • Engage in on and off campus activities at no cost to you

Potential Events and Activities

  • Social and community building activities that involve free food, connection, and fun
  • Organized substance-free recreational events and activities such as attendance at sporting events, hikes, trips to other cities outside of Oxford, spring break activities, intramurals, and other campus events

Expectations for Living in the WILD Affinity Community

  • The WILD Affinity Community is home to a voluntary community of students who wish to live with others committed to substance-free living and provide support to each other so that all can excel academically and build lasting friendships. Please note that living in the WILD Affinity Community does not guarantee that the entire residence hall will be substance-free since other non-WILD students will also live in the hall.
  • Students are expected to not use alcohol or any other drug while living in the WILD Affinity Community. A substance-free environment is defined as one where the following is prohibited: all use of tobacco (including hookah, e-cigs, pipes, cigars and cigarettes), use and possession of alcohol, use of illegal drugs (including cannabis products) or the misuse/abuse of prescription drugs.
  • Community expectations are reviewed during a brief interview process regarding your desire and motivation to live in the WILD Affinity Community.

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Women in Engineering and Software (WiES)

When one woman helps another, amazing things can happen. The Women in Engineering and Software (WiES) Living Learning Community (LLC) is an academically focused group of women who will live together in an environment to further their opportunity for involvement with faculty and build a strong community of women in engineering and computing. Activities in this community include faculty dinners, educational media presentations, trips related to engineering and computer science, as well as service learning opportunities. Students in the LLC will take CEC 111 with others living in the community. Overall, this community is dedicated to promoting women engineers and computer scientists.

Required Course

[Fall] CEC 111: Imagination, Ingenuity, Impact (2 credit hours). This course is designed for first-year students in the College of Engineering and Computing.

[Spring] CEC 112: Imagination, Ingenuity, Impact 2 (2 credit hours). This course is designed for first-year students in the College of Engineering and Computing.

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Women in Science Disciplines and Mathematics (WiSDM)

The Women in Science Disciplines and Mathematics (WiSDM) Living Learning Community (LLC) is open to first-year women, focusing on the success and mentoring of women in science and mathematics. WiSDM is an academically focused group of young women who have selected to live together in a facilitated living learning environment to further their opportunity for involvement with faculty. Activities in this community include faculty dinners, educational media presentations, floor dinners, and field trips geared toward women in science and mathematics.

Questions should be directed to Sarah Meaney, Associate Director for Residential Academic Initiatives, Office of Residence Life, 513-529-4000 or meaneys@MiamiOH.edu.  

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Frequently Asked Questions

How likely am I to get my first choice request of a residential community?

Unfortunately, we are unable to guarantee placement into any student’s first choice community due to a variety of factors. These considerations include: community demand/size limitations, academic program restrictions, room types are not all available in each hall, etc. We are generally able to place 94-95% of students into one of their choices.

What is the difference between taking the classes with the learning community and taking general sections of the same classes?

One difference is that you will already be registered for these classes when you come to orientation. The other difference is that you will be in these classes with a group of your peers who also live in your residence hall. 

If I have a specific person that I want to live with, do we both need to choose the same community?

Yes. In order to be assigned to the person of your choice, each of you must do the following: name one another as roommates and preference the same residential community in the same order on your housing applications. Any other specific questions regarding roommates should be directed to the Campus Services Center.

Are there requirements for Living Learning Communities other than the courses?

Each community is unique and students should select carefully. Some communities require specific courses so students have a common academic experience or the class is where many programs will be delivered. A few communities also have program fees that students will be billed, in order to cover the outlined programs.

How do I know which community suits me best?

In order to find out which community suits you best, you are encouraged to think about high school involvement, personal interests, and goals. You should reflect on what you want to achieve by living in a particular community. For example, if you were very involved with your high school arts program and want to continue enjoying and participating in the arts, but do not want to major in arts, the Celebrate the Arts community would be a good choice. Also, please see the Living Learning Communities section of the Campus Services website for more information on the individual LLCs.

When and where can I choose my residential community?

Once admitted to the university, you will receive information from the Office of Admissions detailing the LLCs, dining options, and housing contracts. On the housing contract, you will select your top five choices of residential communities.

When will I find out which community I am in?

At orientation you will learn your assigned community, as well as if you have been pre-enrolled in specific courses. Specific hall assignments and locations are not available until late July. Assignments are emailed by the Campus Services Center.

If I choose to live in one of the LLCs with a course, do I have to take the course?

Yes, if the course is required. Some programs, however, offer courses on an optional basis. The university strongly encourages every student to take the optional courses as well. Participation in a common class creates a strong sense of community in the hall, and helps students feel connected to the larger Miami community. The in-hall classes help create lasting associations with university faculty and staff. Since students select their LLCs based on their own personal interests, they often find their course to be a much-appreciated extension to their interest.

How do I register for LLC courses?

During fall semester orientation, you will receive information on the courses associated with your LLC. If you indicate an interest on your housing contract, you will be enrolled in the course prior to orientation.

What if I am not placed in one of the communities that I selected?

We are 94-95% successful in placing students into one of the communities that they selected on their housing application. If you were placed in a community that you did not rank in your five choices, you may request a change of communities. Changes are made based on availability. Contact the Campus Services Center to change communities.

What if I do not like the community I live in and want to change it?

In general, the majority of students are very pleased with their community. If there happens to be circumstances that make you want to move out of your community, you have the opportunity to do so on a limited basis.

Prior to your arrival on campus, you can contact the Campus Services Center via email to request the change. After arriving on campus you should contact your Resident Director (who resides in your residence hall).

Keep in mind that room changes are made based on open room availability, and that we do not provide room changes during the first two weeks of fall semester.

Warfield Hall
Contact Us

Office of Residence Life

211 Warfield Hall
451 East Spring St.
Oxford, OH 45056
513-529-4000