The community is welcoming to newcomers and students are actively engaged in their residential communities and in activities taking place on campus. There are some aspects of living on campus that might be a little confusing, until you learn the Res Life "lingo". This page will define some commonly used terms on campus and answer frequently asked questions that are often directed our way.
Commonly Used Terms
Community Director: Community Directors are professional staff members who work for Residence Life and live in the residence halls. They are responsible for community development, support of students, and supervising the in-hall student staff. Their offices are located in the neighborhood Residence Hall Office (RHO).These terms are often used by students but may not be familiar to someone living outside of the Catholic University community.
RA (Resident Assistant): Resident Assistants are students that live on each floor or in each community in the residence halls. They are a resource for residential students and play an active role in community and spiritual development through facilitating community events and sharing information with the campus community.
RM (Residence Minister): Campus Ministry supports a student staff that lives in the residence halls specifically to enhance the faith life of the residential community. A group of RMs live in "The House" and primarily serve students living in Centennial Village. All other RMs live among their peers in campus residence halls.
RHO (Residence Hall Office): The RHO is an office in each residential neighborhood that supports the students living there. The Community Director office is located in the RHO. Students may go to the RHO to seek support, report maintenance concerns, request assistance with a lock out, or complete administrative paperwork.
Neighborhood: Catholic University's residence halls are divided into 5 neighborhoods. Each neighborhood serves a specific student population and often covers a common geographic area. Neighborhoods are staffed by an Community Director and a staff of Resident Assistants.
Pryz: This is the shortened name of the Pryzbyla Center. This building serves as the university center and houses the unique dining facilities on campus (Murphy's pub, the food court, Starbucks, and a convenience store). It is a common place for students to gather to share a meal, to study, and to attend events. The Pryz is also home to many Student Affairs offices that support students.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I become involved with Residence Life?
You can get involved in your community by attending community events with friends, talking to your RA or RM, and/or by seeking employment with Residence Life.
How can I contact my RA or RM?
The easiest way to contact your RA or RM is to stop by their room and say hello. While RAs and RMs are encouraged to visit residents to check in, they appreciate when students visit their rooms too. RMs who live in the House frequently visit the residence halls they serve, so make sure to chat with them as well!
How do I know which events I can participate in?
Most Catholic University residential community events are open to all students. Feel free to stop by and join the fun.
How can I get my mail?
Residents have a mailbox assigned to them. Campus mail is coordinated by Postal Services. Students receive mailbox information when they check into their residence hall.