Living on Campus at MSUM

As a campus tour guide and resident assistant, I get tons of questions about what living on campus is all about; specifically what the residence halls are like. I have the answers to your burning questions right here!

Which hall is the best?
The best hall is the one that you are placed in, of course! People choose specific halls for all sorts of reasons: to be in a learning community, live in a renovated hall, be closer to Nemzek, to be with their friends, etc. Each hall has its own merits, just as each floor has its own personality. The people on your floor make the experience, so oftentimes it does not matter what hall you are in… it is who you share it with!

Is there air conditioning?
None of the resident’s rooms are air-conditioned, but the main lounges in Dahl, Grantham, and Snarr Complex have air conditioning; the entire John Neumaier building is air-conditioned, along with the hallways in South Snarr. It is usually only hot for a few weeks out of the year, so we suggest bringing a fan for those few hot days.

Can I live with my best friend from high school?
Yes, you can let us know in your housing application that you want to live with a specific person.

What is it like to live in the residence halls?
The experience is what you make it. Getting involved is a great way to get connected with campus. There are many opportunities, both on campus and within the hall itself, to expand your horizons and meet new people.

If you haven’t shared a room with someone else before, our tip is to keep open communication with your roommate and address any issues immediately should they arise.

Most residents eat at the dining hall, but if you are looking to replicate mom’s homemade hot dish then there is a kitchen available to cook your own meals.

What is a Learning Community?
In a Learning Community, you will live on the same floor with students who share the same major or interests as you. You’ll take 2-3 common courses with your floormates, attend campus activities and events together, and get guidance from both dragon mentors and faculty that only learning community members receive.

You will definitely find a Learning Community that fits your interests and helps you achieve your goals. Don’t worry if you’re undecided about a major; we offer several themed communities that are open to any major, as well as an Exploration Community that will help you figure out what your major might be!

Is Kise the only place I can eat?
No. All of our meal plans include Dragon Dollars that can be used at the other dining options across campus. You can also go off campus and eat at any of the many restaurants in the Fargo-Moorhead area.

What can I do on the weekends in the halls?
Dragon Entertainment Group does activities around campus throughout the year. Each RA also plans events such as laser tag outings, baking nights, game nights, and much more! Plus, there are several athletics events going on that you can attend for free because you are an MSUM student.

What if I want to change my room?
Things don’t always go as planned or your first choice room might open up. Whatever the circumstance is, we will work with you to get your room switched.

What else do I need to know?
• All housing and dining contracts are a full year and must include a meal plan
• Each floor or wing has a student resident assistant (RA)
• Each complex has a professional staff member who lives in the building, including offices within each building
• All first-year students are required to live on campus and have an unlimited meal plan