The well-oiled machine we call Move-in Day doesn't feel so long ago, although the snow on the ground and the bite in the air might convince us otherwise.
Believe it or not, it is time for your student plan for their 2020-2021 housing experience. All current on-campus students receive information from University Housing about housing and dining options when they return from the winter break. In that communication, we explain that the deadline for contracts is March 1, 2020. We know many families and friends are involved in this decision, so we want to make sure you are ready to have an informed conversation before the deadline.
First things first, here at Stout, we follow the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents' Housing Policy. The policy states students must live on campus for at least two years. If you're not sure of your student's requirement status, have them contact University Housing. Living on campus their first two years offers your student a chance to build strong academic habits, establish social and supportive campus connections, and begin to find their college groove.
Their needs look different after their first year, though. So we have separate living communities available for sophomores and above. These halls include mostly renovated spaces, kitchens on every floor, unique opportunities for involvement, and increased autonomy – ultimately preparing students for that jump to off-campus life someday.
These "next experience" buildings include Fleming-Hovlid, Wigen, McCalmont, Antrim-Froggatt, Jeter-Tainter-Callahan, and North Halls. Additionally, Red Cedar Hall is a suite-style option available only to Junior and Senior students.
Please remember that your student's housing contract is just that - a contract. So, once they sign it, we are officially expecting them! However, if your student is no longer attending UW-Stout or is participating in a credit-producing experience more than 40 driving miles from Menomonie (study abroad, co-op, internship, or student teaching), we can waive their contract. (Not usually an option you'll find in the off-campus housing market.)
We're not kidding, though. This decision is fast approaching. We guarantee housing to students who sign their contracts on or before March 1, 2020. Students who sign after this date are put on a waiting list and will be assigned housing as it becomes available.
For more information about the housing contract and our residence halls, check us out online. To sign a contract today, have your student go to the Housing Gateway and select Sign Housing and Dining Contract. For all other questions, please contact University Housing via email at housing@uwstout.edu or by phone or text at 715-232-1121.