NSU Campus Housing At 90% For Fall

NSU NEWSROOM
In advance of the upcoming fall semester, Norfolk State University has invested $9 million in current and ongoing projects to renovate its eight campus residential facilities – where more than 1,500 new and transfer students are projected to start classes at the 80-year-old institution.

The improvements include upgrades to student rooms, lobbies, and computer labs, in addition to telecommunications operations to improve Wi-Fi for students once they begin moving back to campus next month. The residence halls include: Samuel F. Scott Hall, Rosa A. Alexander Hall, Charles H. Smith Hall, Honors College-Midrise Residence Hall, Lee W. Smith Hall, Babbette B. Smith North and South halls and the Spartan Suites.

Edward Willis, NSU’s Vice President for Student Affairs, said the enhancements are being made in preparation for new and returning students, and to ensure a positive, modern living experience on campus. So far, the university has received more than 2,100 applications for on-campus housing. The number is nearly 90 percent of Norfolk State’s housing capacity. The university has also admitted more than 3,600 first-time freshmen – more than twice the number of freshmen during the same time period one year ago. The university also expects an increase with both transfer and graduate students.

“With the new residency requirement and the significant response rate thus far, we expect to reach full occupancy before the start of the fall semester. I encourage students to send their housing deposits in to reserve their space on campus as soon as possible,” Willis said. “Norfolk State has great residential halls with excellent amenities. We are always looking for ways to enhance the student experience.”

Last year, the NSU Board of Visitors approved a new policy for the 2016-17 academic year that requires first-year college students to live on campus if they live more than 35 miles from the university, with special exceptions. Willis said research indicates that students who live on campus for at least one year perform better academically, and are more likely to complete their degree program.

“This policy will support our academic enterprise and help our first-time students become more successful and graduate in four years,” he said.
For more information about living on campus, call (757) 823-9293 or visit www.nsu.edu/finance/student-accounts/deposit- information.