Living on Campus Expectations, Rights, and Responsibilities

Living on campus can be a rewarding part of your Emporia State University experience. Our goal as a department is to work with residents to create an environment for growth and fun where residents learn to take responsibility for themselves and the community. We have worked to put many of our expectations into policy language so you understand the behaviors that support your success and the success of others. In addition to policies stated in our Residence Hall Handbook, we have developed the philosophy statements below to add context to your rights and responsibilities while living on campus. These statements, as well as policies and procedures, are aimed at helping you develop skills, be successful at Emporia State, and become a part of an enriching, on-campus community. If you have any questions about this handbook, contact us at reslife@emporia.edu or 620-341-5264.

To read more about the specific rules and regulations, please view our ESU Residence Hall Handbook.

Philosophy of Your Rights & Responsibilities

• You have the right to know what is expected of you within the residence halls. You have the responsibility to read and understand the information provided to you by the University, including the Residence Hall Handbook, Student Handbook and all other University policies and procedures.
• You have the right to make your own choices. With that comes the responsibility to ensure those choices do not infringe upon the rights of others or violate University policies. These policies support the educational mission of the University and foster a safe and comfortable on-campus environment.
• You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect. You have the responsibility to acknowledge the value of others and to learn from others in an atmosphere of positive engagement and mutual respect.
• You have the right to be able to sleep and study in a reasonably peaceful and quiet space. You have the responsibility to allow others the same right by observing quiet hours and 24-hour courtesy hours.
• You have the right to privacy, and equitable use of your room in terms of space and time, and freedom from unwanted guests. With that comes the responsibility to let your roommate(s) know your preferences through the roommate agreement and acknowledge the preference of others.
• You have the right to confront behaviors that infringe upon your rights in a manner that is respectful and productive. You have the responsibility to examine your own behavior if confronted by others and work towards resolving conflict.
• You have the right to seek assistance from Residential Life, ESU Police & Safety, or any other University staff with concerns regarding your living environment. You have the responsibility to keep your building and room secure and to prevent strangers from accessing the building. You have the responsibility to notify staff in a timely manner when a concern exists and to cooperate while they partner with you.

We encourage you to reflect on these rights and responsibilities, talk about them with your peers and with staff, and make them part of your educational, on-campus experience.

As a student living in the residence halls, you have a unique opportunity to connect with your fellow students and with the greater campus community. As a responsible member of our educational community, you will need to read and understand the expectations outlined in the University policies and Residence Hall Policies. Read through this document and let us know if you have any questions. These polices may be updated and changed throughout the year.