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Residence Life Frequently Asked Questions

The below questions and answers cover the basic information about living on campus. For additional questions, please contact the Office of Residence Life at residencelife@shawu.edu.

Question Answer
  What should I bring with me? Space is limited. Always talk to your roommate before making any decision about what to bring. Refer to the below list for suggestions. 1. Broom, dust pan, mop and bucket
2. Laundry basket
3. Laundry detergent
4. Basket for shower supplies
5. Toiletries
6. Shower shoes
7. Cleaning supplies
8. Iron and ironing board
9. Standard twin linens
10. Towels and washcloths
11. Waste basket
13. Calendar
14. School supplies
15. Stamps and envelopes
16. Computer/laptop/printer
17. Surge protectors with long cord
18. Ethernet/cable cord and splitter
19. Refrigerator (less than 4 cubic feet)
20. Alarm clock/radio
21. Umbrella
22. Desk or bedside lamp
23. Fan
24. Under-the-bed storage bins
25. Mini toolkit (screwdriver, wrench, double-sided tape)
  What items are NOT allowed on campus/dorm rooms? Refer to the below list for items that are not allowed:
1. Alcohol and drugs
2. Microwaves, George Foreman Grills, blenders, toasters (no cooking appliances)
3. Pets (small fish in a bowl are permitted)
4. Any items usable as weapons
5. Candle and incense and any item lit with a match or lighter
6. Explosives
7. Tapestries and drapes
  What are the dimensions of the room? Generally, all double rooms are approximately 12 feet by 16 feet. Triple rooms are approximately 15 feet by 16 feet and located only in the freshman halls (Dimple Newsome and Fleming-Kee residence halls).
  How is the room furnished? Each double and triple room is furnished with single twin size bed and mattress, dressers, desks, desk chairs, closets or wardrobes and bookshelves.
  Do you have any decorating tips? Simple, inexpensive items can make the room more comfortable and add storage spaces.
  • Small trunks, foot lockers and colorful crates can be stacked in various ways to serve as storage for books and other items, under-bed containers serve as great storage tools.
  • Carpet samples can be sewn together to make attractive and inexpensive scatter rugs.
  • Throw pillows can add an inexpensive splash of color.
  • Posters - images of travels, entertainers, movies and sports figures can brighten a room.
  • Favorite items like pictures of family and friends and stuffed animals can make your room feel like home.

Personal Property Insurance

Shaw University assumes no responsibility for the loss, damage, or theft of student property in the residence halls.  All students are encouraged to purchase their own personal property insurance from the provider of their choice. 

Smoking and Alcohol Policies

Shaw University is an alcohol and smoke-free campus.  All students and visitors must adhere to the University smoking and alcohol policies. Smoking in any form is prohibited anywhere on campus.  Students found in violation of these policies may receive a university sanction and be subject to dismissal from university housing.