Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing and Food Service Contract for Undergraduate Residence Halls and Food Service Operations
The University reserves the right to revise or amend the Terms, Conditions and Regulations at any time without notice.
Please read the following information thoroughly and keep it for reference throughout your stay in University housing.
Introductory Information
Special Housing Requests
Registration
Campus Meal Plan
Checking Into the Room
Checking Out of the Room
Supplemental Housing
Room Changes
Contract Cancellation
Refund Policies
Maintenance of the Room
Policies and Regulations
Safety and Security
Technology
Miscellaneous
Violations
Penn State strives to provide a residence environment that is both comfortable and conducive to learning and personal growth. The University assigns housing accommodations without regard to personal characteristics, not related to ability, performance, or qualifications as determined by University policy, or by state or federal authorities. The University does not discriminate against any person because of age, ancestry, color, disability or handicap, national origin, race, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. All students should familiarize themselves with the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of living on campus.
Legality
The Housing and Food Service Contract is a legally-binding contract, and begins when the student accepts the Contract. Students are expected to abide by the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing and Food Service Contract, which includes assuming financial responsibility for the entire contract period. Residence accommodations are available only on a combined room-and-board basis unless otherwise noted. The Housing and Food Service Contract cannot be transferred or assigned to another student except as outlined at Contract Transfer of Obligation. The Penn State id+ Card provides access to the residence hall security system and the Campus Meal Plan and may only be used by the student to whom it is issued. Failure to pick up the room key or properly check-in does not release a student from the Housing and Food Service Contract.
Housing Deposit
When a student accepts the Housing and Food Service Contract, a $100.00 non-refundable housing deposit must also be submitted, or the student must agree that the University can charge the housing deposit to the student's Bursar account if the housing deposit is not on file. The housing deposit will not be refunded if the student decides to not attend the University for the student's admitted contract period. The housing deposit will be retained by the University throughout the contract period that the student resides in University Housing, until the student no longer has a Housing and Food Service Contract on file with the University for future academic periods. The housing deposit will be credited to the student's account within 30 days after the final contract period the student resides on campus ends.
If a student feels that he or she has a significant chronic physical or emotional condition that may impact the assigned housing environment, the required documentation must be submitted by the established deadlines. A student must work with the campus disability services coordinator and have a valid, accepted Housing and Food Services Contract before the required documentation can be submitted. Information and instructions can be found at Disability Services. If the documentation is received after the deadline date, contract preferences for area, building, Special Living Options, and/or roommate will be reviewed but only taken into consideration if space permits. The determination will supersede any preferences indicated on the Housing and Food Services Contract. If the documentationis received after room assignments are posted, Housing reserves the right to reassign the student to a space that will meet the medical need. This move will only accommodate the student requiring the medical need and not any requested roommate(s). If a student is offered a change to the housing environment, an additional cost may be associated with the resulting assignment or requests.
Questions regarding this process should be directed to the disability services coordinator in the Health and Wellness Center in the Sheetz Family Health Center or at 814-949-5540.
Temporary Medical Conditions
Room changes for temporary medical conditions are only valid for the academic year in which they are filed. If a student needs to request a Temporary Medical Condition, the student's attending physician must provide the required documentation. Once the medical need is established, the student will be moved to a space that will best accommodate his or her need until such a time that the accommodation is no longer required, or until the end of the contracted period should the original room assignment be assigned to another student with a Housing and Food Services Contract.
Meningococcal Disease Vaccination
The University is required by state law to maintain Meningococcal Vaccination information for every student who lives on campus. All Penn State students residing in on-campus housing, including all residence halls and apartments, are required to register his or her Meningococcal Vaccination information with Penn State by completing the online form found at University Health Services. The state law requiring the vaccination is a part of the College and University Student Vaccination Act former Governor Mark Schweiker and the Pennsylvania State Legislature passed in June 2002. The law requires that the student inform the University if the vaccination was received or if an exemption from the immunization requirement is being requested. The vaccination information must be completed prior to check-in; if a student has not submitted the information by check-in, the form will be provided and must be submitted prior to room key being supplied. The form only needs to be completed once. More information about Meningococcal disease can be found on the Frequently Asked Questions page.
Registration Status
Students must be degree-seeking. Non-degree students may be considered for housing on an individual basis. Students must be in registered status at Altoona to reside in University-owned housing. This means the student must have his or her semester bill paid in full. If a student has have not paid the student bill, he or she will be asked to leave the residence halls. Housing and Food Services will then cancel the current contract and place a financial hold on the student's records until such time as the student pays all charges incurred.
Campus Registration
Upper-class students who are attending another Penn State campus or college and are planning a change of campus (COC) to Altoona may request a Housing and Food Services Contract through the Online Contract System process during the advertised process. The change of campus process must be initiated by the student at his or her current campus. If the change of campus is not approved, it is the student's responsibility to contact the Housing and FoodServices office to cancel the Altoona Housing and Food Services Contract. If a student whose University records reflect a campus other than Altoona after July 1, his or her room assignment will be held until such time as the change of campus to Altoona is complete. Any student who has not completed the change of campus by the last day of the second summer session will lose his or her room assignment and will be placed in space reserved until the change of campus is approved. The student will then be assigned to either a regular or supplemental room, whichever is available. If the change of campus to Altoona is not approved, and the student does not notify Housing and Food Services prior to arrival day, the student's contract will be canceled and the student will forfeit the $100 housing deposit.
University Academic Drop
If a student is academically dropped by the University, he or she is responsible for notifying the Housing and Food Services office of their status. Any room and board charges that the student incurred during a stay on campus will need to be paid by the student directly to the Housing and Food Services office. If the student becomes reenrolled during the contract period, he or she will be obligated to the remaining portion of the contract.
The Housing and Food Service Contract includes the Campus Meal Plan for students residing in traditional residence halls. All undergraduate students residing in the residence halls are required to purchase the Campus Meal Plan for each semester/session the student is living on campus and pay the total rate for the Campus Meal Plan, based on the level selected. Depending upon the level selected, the available dining dollars used to make actual meal purchases may not be enough to cover all meal plans during a semester/session. Additional information about the Campus Meal Plan is available at www.hfs.psu.edu/altoona/Dining/index.cfm.
Academic Year Meal Plan Level Options
The Campus Meal Plan offers six levels, with varying dining dollars available to purchase meals. When the Housing and Food Service Contract is accepted, the Campus Meal Plan is defaulted to level three. To adjust the level, the student can login to eLiving and select a different level. Levels can be adjusted during the semester until seven days before the end of the semester. Levels can be adjusted higher or lower as applicable, and additional dining dollars can be added directly to the student's account online at www.idcard.psu.edu. Any dining dollars remaining at the end of spring semester are forfeited and will not be refunded.
Campus Meal Plan Account Balances
Remaining dining dollars at the end of fall semester will carry over to spring semester, provided the student has an active Campus Meal Plan. Even if dining dollars are carried over to the next semester, students are still required to purchase the Campus Meal Plan and pay the total semester board rate for the level selected. If a student has a large amount of dining dollars at the end of fall semester, a lower level should be selected for spring semester. Any remaining dining dollars at the end of spring semester are forfeited, and no refunds will be offered.
Transfer of the Campus Meal Plan to Another Student
The Campus Meal Plan cannot be transferred or assigned to another student. The id+ Card is used as the meal access card and may be used only by the student to whom the card is issued.
Special Diets
A student with special dietary requirements (religious, medical, personal, dietary preference, etc.) that cannot be fulfilled by individual selection from the menu choices needs to contact the Housing and Food Services office prior to accepting the Housing and Food Service Contract. If Housing and Food Services is unable to provide reasonable accommodations, the student may be exempted from the Campus Meal Plan for the student's first year of residency only. Should the student pursue living on campus for subsequent years, the exemption will not apply if the student accepts a Housing and Food Service Contract.
If the student has accepted the Housing and Food Service Contract and subsequently develops a medical condition that requires a special diet, the student may be required to submit medical documentation verified by University Health Services. If the documentation confirms dietary requirements which Housing and Food Services is unable to accommodate, the Campus Meal Plan will be canceled for the remaining days of the session/semester, a prorated credit processed, and the student will be required to make alternative food arrangements. Students with questions about special diets should contact Housing and Food Services before accepting the Housing and Food Service Contract.
Removing Food or Unauthorized Entry into the Dining Commons
When dining in an all-you-care-to-eat location, the only takeout options are one piece of hand fruit (apple, orange, or banana) and one ice cream cone. Removing additional food or beverages, dishes, trays, or silverware from the dining room or entering the dining commons without paying for the meal or consuming food in the retail food court area will be considered theft. Theft in the food service operation is a serious issue that will result in disciplinary action by the Office of Residence Life, the Office of Student Conduct and/or University Police. Further repercussions could include cancellation of the Housing and Food Service Contract. Housing and Food Services reserves the right to examine customers' backpacks or bags when they exit dining facilities. Acts of horseplay, food fights, and inline skates are prohibited. If a student violates this policy, he or she will be subject to disciplinary action.
Meals During Illness
If a student becomes ill and is unable to consume meals in the dining facilities, a meal may be obtained by notifying the Housing and Food Services office. The staff will then provide instructions for securing a meal.
Check-In and Room Inspection Form
Information about when check-in will be held for each semester will be announced in advance through at www.welcomeweek.psu.edu/WelcomeWeek/altoona/index.cfm. Students should plan on arriving on the appropriate scheduled arrival day, unless arrangements have been made for a special group to arrive early.
The student must be present to check in, a parent or other family member may not check-in for the student. The student must present his or her Penn State id+ Card or other valid photo identification at check-in to receive a room key. Each student will receive one room key at the time of check-in and will sign in acknowledgement of receiving the room key. Information about the student's mailbox will also be provided.
The Room Inspection Form must be completed online at www.eLiving.psu.edu by the student within seven days of check-in. The Room Inspection Form is used to identify any damages or missing items in the room, and will be verified upon the student's check-out of the room. Any damages or missing items not noted will be charged to the student's account.
Late Check-in
Unless the student requests an extension of the arrival period in writing to the Housing and Food Services office, the University is not obliged to hold a specific room assignment later than 5:00 p.m. of the first day of classes. Students must accept other available accommodations if they arrive after that time, and will be obligated for full room and board charges if enrolled at the University.
Check-Out
All rooms, regardless of the date or circumstances, should be clean and in good condition at the time of check-out. Students should notify the Housing and Food Services office regarding the date of check-out and determine a time the room can be inspected.
Any items a student leaves in the room will be handled in accordance with the lost and found policy. For additional information about the check-out process and room inspection, refer to www.hfs.psu.edu/altoona/Housing/Moving-Out.cfm
Only students withdrawing from the University are permitted to cancel the Housing and Food Service Contract. If a student leaves the University during the contracted period, the Housing and Food Services office must be notified of the student's change of enrollment status prior to the student vacating the room.
University Break Periods
Undergraduate residence halls will be closed during University breaks. Dates of closing and opening will be posted on bulletin boards in the residence halls, and are posted online on the Penn State Academic Calendar and www.hfs.psu.edu/altoona/Housing/Important-Dates.cfm. Room and board rates do not include services during official University breaks. At the end of each semester, residence halls close at 4:00 p.m. on the day following the last scheduled examination for official University courses, as announced by the University Registrar.
Moving to a Regular Room During the Fall Semester
If a student is assigned to supplemental housing, he or she will receive a new room assignment when a vacancy is identified in a permanent room. Students living in supplemental housing will be surveyed no later than the first week of October to determine if they wish to remain in supplemental housing. Students who wish to remain in the supplemental room may do so only if the following conditions exist:
When a student completes the survey, he or she will be able to indicate that they are interested in moving and can identify the buildings and types of rooms that they will accept for assignment. The student will be required to move if he or she is reassigned a location and room that meets their indicated criteria. If a student indicates that they are interested in moving to permanent space, he or she will be assigned as space becomes available – there is no guarantee a reassignment to a regular room will occur.
It will be assumed that if a student does not return the survey, he or she wants to remain in supplemental housing and will not be reassigned until such time as all students who returned the survey and indicated they wanted to move to a regular room have been reassigned.
Students reassigned prior to the survey being distributed are required to accept the reassignment and move within four days.
Moving to a Regular Room for Spring Semester
All students living in a supplemental room at the end of the fall semester are expected to participate in the Open Room Change for Spring Semester. Housing and Food Services maintains the right to reassign students to regular rooms, consolidate between supplemental rooms, or adjust the room rate charges of those students assigned to supplemental housing who did not participate in the Open Room Change when space becomes available. If the student is reassigned, the student's personal belongings must be moved of the fall semester supplemental room at the end of fall semester (prior to beginning of the semester break). The student may contact the Housing and Food Services office to determine if their belongings can be moved directly into the new assignment or into storage. If belongings are not moved, Housing and Food Services may move the belongings and assess a charge to the student. A student may request an exception by contacting the Housing and Food Services office; exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis.
Supplemental Room Charges
When a student is assigned to supplemental housing, the housing rate charged will be the supplemental housing rate. The supplemental housing rate is lower than most room rates of the housing area where the supplemental room is located. Upon reassignment to a regular room, the rate is prorated to the regular room rate based on the date the reassignment was processed. If a student chooses to remain in the supplemental room when a vacancy is available in their building, their account will be charged a prorated regular double room rate for the remainder of the semester.
Direct Room Exchange
A Direct Room Exchange is a change of assignment with another student of the same gender and may be processed for most types of accommodations. Direct Room Exchanges must be completed online through www.eLiving.psu.edu. A Direct Room Exchange cannot be processed for students assigned to a medically equipped room due to a medical need, such as air conditioning, unless the change is to a similarly equipped room. A Direct Room Exchange cannot be processed if the student is assigned to a Special Living Option through a Special Living Option Contract, sorority housing, or certain other special housing. Direct room exchanges can only be processed through the 15th week of the semester.
Emergency Room Change
An emergency room change will be arranged only when all other options to resolve differences between roommates have been thoroughly explored. If a student feels that an emergency room change is need, the student must discuss the need for a change of a residence hall assignment with a Residence Life staff member. If the staff member determines that an emergency exists and space is available, the Residence Life staff member will contact the Housing and Food Services office and to process a change in assignment.
A student interested in changing their room assignment for spring semester may do so during the posted time periods beginning in November and continuing through early December. During the posted time periods, students will be informed where to view the list of rooms being vacated for spring semester. Interested students must follow the process outlined for requesting a room change. The Housing and Food Services office will process the change and notify the student when the request is complete.
A student receiving a change of assignment for spring semester must vacate the fall room prior to the end of fall semester or before leaving for semester break, whichever is first. The student can make arrangements with the Housing and Food Services office for storage during the semester break period if the new assignment is not available prior to the end of fall semester.
After the second week of spring semester, depending on room availability, a list of vacancies is posted at the Housing and Food Services office. Room changes are processed on a first-come, first-served basis to an available space in accordance with the policy/instructions that are provided with the posting. After the open room change period ends and supplemental rooms have been emptied, Housing and Food Services will consolidate vacancies. Upon notification, if a student has a vacancy in their room, he or she may choose from the following options:
A Housing and Food Service Contract submitted to the University is legally binding and holds the student to the financial obligation of the entire contract period. A student is released from that obligation should the student cancel his or her enrollment with the University. If the contract holder is continuing his or her education at the Altoona campus and wishes to be released from the obligation, he or she is required to transfer the contract to another student (see Contract Transfer of Obligation). Students with extreme circumstances will be considered for release on a case-by-case basis. A Contract Release Request form can be obtained from the Housing and Food Services office. These students will be charged a fee equal to 20 percent of their room and base board costs if released prior to the first day of classes. Cancellations granted after the first day of classes will have charges assessed according to the University's established refund policy. Failure to pick up a key will not release a student from the contract obligation.
Contract Transfer of Obligation
A student committed to a Housing and Food Service Contract who wishes to be released from the contract must transfer the obligation to another student. The replacement student must be eligible for on-campus housing and must be an undergraduate student of the same gender. The transfer must be filed and approved by the Housing and Food Services office.
Regulations for Contract Transfer of Obligation
Practicum, Student Teaching
Any student who has a Housing and Food Service Contract will pay 100 percent of the room and board charges for the portion of the session/semester he or she is on campus. The student and/or academic department must notify Housing and Food Services, in writing, two weeks prior to the start of the practicum for the student to qualify for the credit.
Fall Semester
If a student takes a leave of absence or participates in student teaching, internship, practicum, etc., for fall semester and returns as a registered undergraduate student during the contract period, the contract is still active and the student must return to a residence hall. The housing deposit will be retained for spring semester. If a student is on leave of absence for two consecutive semesters, the housing deposit will be credited to the student's account. Any contract submitted thereafter must include another $100 deposit. Students reenrolled after withdrawal will initially be assigned to supplemental housing.
Spring Semester and Summer Session
Spring semester and summer session students who withdraw or take a leave of absence from the University prior to taking occupancy will have their contracts canceled and $100 housing deposit will be forfeited. The University will retain the $100 housing deposit as liquidated damages.
Withdrawal from School and Approved Release from the Contract after Taking Occupancy
Students who took occupancy of a residence room and then withdrew from the University or were granted a contract release will receive a credit based on a prorated daily refund schedule upon check-out. No room and board base cost refunds are granted after the eighth week of the semester. All unused meal plan funds in excess of $5 remaining at time of withdrawal or approved contract release will be refunded at face value. However, at the end of the spring semester, any unused funds are forfeited and no refund will be given for the base cost. Students withdrawing from University must vacate their room no more than twenty-four hours after withdrawal from school or approved contract release. Credits will be based on the date the belongings are removed from the room and the key is surrendered, or the effective date of the withdrawal, whichever is later.
Campus Meal Plan Refunds
Refunds for unused dining dollars will not be given at the end of the contracted period. Students are encouraged to monitor their dining dollar balance and modify the meal plan level as necessary. Refunds are not given if a student schedules classes that conflict with the meal schedule or who choose not to eat in the dining commons. All unused dining dollars remaining at the time of withdrawal or approved contract release will be credited at face value. A credit will not be given for an account with less than a $5.00 balance.
Housing Deposit
The housing deposit is non-refundable for first-year students, and will be retained by the University for the length of time that the student has a valid Housing and Food Service Contract. The housing deposit is carried over year-to-year until the student no longer resides on campus. Once the student no longer has a Housing and Food Service Contract for the subsequent contract period, the housing deposit will then be credited to the student's Bursar account.
If a student cancels the Housing and Food Service Contract or withdraws from the University without notifying the Housing and Food Services office, the housing deposit will be forfeited for administrative costs. If for any reason a refunded housing deposit is not accepted, negotiated, or other demand made thereof, within one year from the University's initial attempt to return such to student, the student agrees that any remaining housing deposit will be a general gift by the student to the University.
Semester Charges
The room rate and Campus Meal Plan base cost will be credited on prorated daily refund schedule after the student has received an approved Housing and Food Service Contract release or officially withdrawals from the University. The refund amount is based on the date of the Housing and Food Service Contract cancellation. The refund will be applied to the student's Bursar account and will be refunded less any outstanding charges against the account.
Repairs
Maintenance needs, problems, or questions regarding a student room or hall should be discussed with Housing and Food Services staff. Maintenance problems should be reported to Housing and Food Services in a timely manner: online at www.hfs.psu.edu/altoona/Housing/Maintenance-Request-Form.cfm or by phone at 814-949-5713.
A student who has requested a repair to an item in his or her room can expect this repair to be completed during regular business hours. For the safety and security of residents, it may be necessary to reassign the occupants to a different room to perform some types of maintenance.
Maintenance personnel may enter a student room to perform preventative maintenance, needed repairs identified during a room inspection, or an emergency repair. If an employee enters a student room when the student is not present, the employee will leave a form stating the time, date, and reasons for entering the room. Although a student may ask to schedule an appointment for a repair, it will be determined by Housing and Food Services, on a case-by-case basis, if the situation can wait or be scheduled at the convenience of the student.
Cleaning
Students are expected to maintain their rooms in an orderly and sanitary condition; empty trash into the dumpsters outside the residence area; and participate in the recycling program established at the campus. If Housing and Food Services becomes aware of unsanitary conditions resulting from students failing to maintain their rooms, Housing and Food Services will clean the room, the resident(s) will be charged, and the amount will be applied against their student accounts. Depending upon how Housing and Food Services and other students are affected by the persistence of disorderly and unsanitary conditions in a student's room, the University reserves the right to cancel the student's contract and to refuse an assignment for future contract periods.
Bathrooms in residence area suites will be cleaned by Housing and Food Services staff on a predetermined schedule.
Inspections
A room inspection is not a search. Student rooms are inspected during each session/semester and at the time of check-out. Routine inspections will be announced in advance, and the student may choose to be present during the inspection. These inspections are conducted 1) to evaluate the condition of the room and furnishings; 2) to identify needed maintenance and repairs; and 3) to check for fire and safety hazards. If damages are noted, the cost for repairs or replacement will be charged to the resident(s) of the room. The University reserves the right to make non-routine, emergency inspections to protect the health and safety of its students. Should Housing and Food Services management observe the presence of unapproved appliances or objects in the room or notice objects attached to the facilities in an unapproved manner, this will be recorded on a Notice of Room Check form. A copy of the form will be left for the student, who will be expected to correct the improper situation. In the case of noncompliance, the University reserves the right to have the items removed at the expense of the resident(s).
ALCOHOL AND ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES
Alcohol Policy
Illegal Substances
It is a violation of state and university policy to illegally possess, use, distribute, manufacture, sell or be under the influence of other drugs. Students who violate this policy will be referred to the office of Residence Life, the Office of Student Conduct, and/or University Police.
It is against residence hall policy for a student to be in a residential area (room, common area, common building, building entryway, or quad area immediately adjacent to the residence halls) and in the presence of an illegal substance. Students who are in the presence of an illegal substance in these areas will be referred to the Office of Residence Life, the Office of Student Conduct and/or University Police.
CANVASSING AND SOLICITATION
Canvassing
Commercial Enterprises
The use of University facilities and/or property for commercial sales activities by individual or non-University organizations is prohibited. University organizations, within limitations established by this policy and other University regulations, and with appropriate approval, may sell materials to support the purpose of the organization.
Solicitations
DECORATIONS AND DISPLAYS
Advertising
Advertising of merchandise or services for sale or rent is not permitted in residence halls unless it is for the sale of the personal property of the students living in the residence halls. Special bulletin board space is designated for this service. Advertisements, if posted elsewhere, will be removed.
Student Rooms
Student doors
Students may decorate the surface of their room door facing the corridor, provided that it is done according to the guidelines that follow. Adhering to these guidelines will protect doors from unusually harsh wear, eliminate potential fire hazards, and ensure the free movement/access in the corridor. No decorations may be placed on the exterior of the building.
Student room and lounge window decorating and display policy
Students may decorate the window(s) in their individual residence hall room as well as the window(s) in their hall lounge provided that it is done according to the guidelines that follow. Adhering to these guidelines will prevent windows from being damaged and eliminate potential safety hazards.
Holiday decorations
Many residents are interested in seasonal or holiday decorating. The following policy outlines acceptable standards for seasonal and/or holiday decorating.
Any questions related to the above policies should be referred to the Housing and Food Services and Residence Life staff.
GUESTS
The residence halls are intended for use by residents of the building and their invited guests. A guest is defined as a person visiting a resident of the residence hall at the resident's invitation. Delivery persons are not considered to be guests for purposed of this policy.
To ease the congestion of the move-in period and to allow roommates the opportunity to discuss what to do about overnight guests in the room, no overnight guests will be allowed in the residence halls until the first day of classes, then only with the permission of the roommate.
The following stipulations relate to all guests:
Students charged with violations of the guest regulation will be subject to University disciplinary action. An unescorted guest who is a student of the University shall be subject to University discipline.
If a cot and/or linens are needed, students should make arrangements at the Housing and Food Services office. Charges for these services should be paid in advance; the deadline for reservations is 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
QUIET HOURS
One of the goals of Housing and Food Services and Residence Life is to provide an atmosphere within the residence halls that is conducive to study and rest. In order to meet this goal, it is necessary that all students understand that the right of students to study and sleep takes precedence over the right of students to make noise. Quiet hours and courtesy hours have been established and posted in every residence hall.
Courtesy Hours
Courtesy hours are in effect 24 hours a day. At all times, a student's right to study and sleep will be respected. Residents and their guests will lower their voices or the volume of their equipment (music, TV, computer, musical instruments, etc.) if asked to do so by a University official or resident of the building.
Quiet Hours
Sunday through Wednesday: 10:00 p.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Thursday through Saturday: 12:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Finals Week
During finals week, 24-hour quiet hours are maintained beginning at 8:00 a.m. the day before finals and continuing until the halls close at the end of the semester (except in Schreyer Honor's environments where this begins the Friday preceding the first day of Finals). It is expected that a proper study atmosphere be maintained during these established quiet hours. Residents are also reminded that these hours may be extended if additional study conditions are required. Residence life may extend hours in consultation with student government or the residence hall association.
It is also expected that:
FIRE SAFETY POLICIES
Candles and Incense
For safety reasons candles, incense, and other flame-emitting articles are prohibited in the residence halls. Only potpourri burners with an enclosed heating element and an automatic shut-off are permitted.
Cooking
The only cooking permitted in residence halls is that which can be done using the University-owned refrigerator/microwave provided in each room (refer to Appliances).
Smoking
Penn State promotes smoke-free environments by prohibiting smoking in all buildings. This policy is enforced in all University facilities, including residence halls and dining commons. Established "smoking area" maps are posted in each residence hall area.
FIRE PREVENTION
Fire Drills
To comply with state and local fire regulations, fire drills will be conducted in all residence halls once a month. Everyone present in the building during the emergency drills must participate by vacating the building according to instructions. Rooms may be checked during fire drills to ensure compliance. Failure to vacate the building will result in disciplinary action.
Fire Safety Equipment
General Fire Safety Precautions
Students are responsible for taking precautions to prevent fire. Extreme caution and good judgment must be exercised when using a desk lamp of any kind. Lamps should not be placed near flammable objects such as curtains, bedspreads, pillows, posters, or clothing and should be turned off when residents leave the room. Due to potential fire hazards, University policy prohibits the use of Torchere-style (floor-standing lamps that project light upward) halogen lamps in any University facility.
FACILITY SAFETY POLICIES
Aerials and Antennae
Aerials, masts, satellite dishes, and other short-wave radio transmitting equipment are not allowed in the residence halls because of FCC interference regulations and safety precautions.
Balconies
Some residence halls have exterior balconies as part of the architectural façade. Access to them is prohibited at all times.
Elevators
Elevators are available in some residence halls for student use during arrival and move-out periods. During the academic year, elevators are available only for staff use. Students who require the use of an elevator for medical purposes must contact Housing and Food Services.
Students and guest should refrain from the following behaviors when using an elevator:
Furniture
Residents are prohibited from using furniture other than what has been provided; the only exceptions are bean bag chairs and desk chairs. Residents supplying desk chairs must keep the University-provided chair in the room.
Dismantling furniture or removing it from a fixed position is prohibited. Lofting of beds, or raising up beds using blocks or other items, is not permitted. Mattresses are to be used on bed frames provided and not on the floor. Residents who desire to bunk their beds must contact Housing and Food Services to determine if this is possible; students may not bunk the beds themselves.
No furniture or furnishings are to be removed from the rooms at any time.
The use of other University furniture in an individual student room is not permitted and will lead to referral to the Office of Residence Life or the Office of Student Conduct.
Because of the excessive weight and potential for damage, liquid-filled beds and other liquid-filled furniture items are not permitted.
Room inspections
Routine room inspections of all residence hall rooms may be done periodically to evaluate the condition of the room and furnishings, to identify required maintenance and repairs, and to check for fire and safety hazards. In most cases, students are notified about room inspections in advance.
Room Searches
There are no routine room searches. A room search is conducted only when there is strong reason to believe that the occupant(s) of the room are in serious physical or psychological distress or that the room contains items that are contrary to University regulations (which include federal, state, and local laws). In most cases, an act of misbehavior will precipitate this concern.
Room searches are conducted exclusively by the Residence Life staff. When there is a potential search situation, the area Residence Life staff must obtain approval from the assistant vice president of Housing and Food Services and Residence Life. Approval is given only after the reason for search, the person(s) to search the room, and the object(s) being sought are clarified. Searches are usually conducted in the presence of the student occupants, and only in unusual cases would the room be searched in their absence.
When it is necessary for a member of the Department of University Safety to search a room, the search will be performed according to constitutional and criminal procedures (for instance, if an officer observes articles in plain view from a location where the officer has a right to be, the officer has not conducted a search). If time and circumstances permit, a member of the Residence Life staff will be notified of the impending search. The staff member can provide guidance to the resident of the room against whom any warrant is issued and can act as a witness. Items seized will be taken (as authorized by law) and inventoried, and a receipt listing each article will be given to the owner or left in the room.
Weightlifting Equipment
Weightlifting equipment is not permitted in individual rooms because of noise and potential damage to the floors.
Windows/Screens
SECURITY FEATURES
Card Access
Every residence hall is equipped with an electronic, computerized card access and CCTV system that permits access to the hall by residents of the building only. The system is operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Adjustments to access hours may be made during the fall arrival period and spring semester closing. Students may enter only their assigned building by swiping their id+ cards in the card reader, located at the front lobby, and – in some halls- at other doors. If the id+ card fails to unlock the door of the student's assigned residence hall, the student may gain entry with the assistance of a roommate, the staff member on duty, or in an extreme emergency, by contacting University Police. If a student has pizza or other food items delivered, the student must be in the lobby to meet the vendor at the front door. The delivery person will not be given access to the lobby. Students who want to visit a resident who lives in another building will need to announce their planned arrival using the telephone provided in the area or the commons building. The resident host must come to the entrance and escort the visiting student to the room, and later out of the residence hall. If a student or guest leaves the hall through any of the regular building exits, they should be aware that exit doors are not to be held open for prolonged periods of time. An alarm at the door will sound and someone will be dispatched to determine if the door has been blocked open. Residents are not permitted to allow access to the buildings to anyone other than themselves and their invited guests.
Penn State id+ Card
If a student's id+ card is lost or stolen, the student should follow the following procedures:
Note: Students whose id+ cards are reported lost, misplaced, or stolen will not be allowed access to any dining commons or cash operation using their campus meal plan until they have obtained a replacement card. The id+ card has monetary value and should be treated the same as cash. The University will not be responsible for any value loss due to misuse or fraud.
Safety and Security Tips:
Report Suspicious Activity Immediately
Suspicious activity includes:
Some people fail to report suspicious activity because they are not aware of what seemingly innocent activities might be suspicious. Others may notice activity and may be hesitant to call for fear of seeming over-reactive or embarrassed. Still others take it for granted that someone else has called. Students should call immediately about any suspicious activity. There is no need to worry about bothering staff on duty because that is why we are here. Students should not be concerned about being embarrassed if their suspicions prove unfounded. They should think instead about what could happen if they do not act.
Students play a critical role in maintaining a safe and secure environment. No matter how many security assistants we employ or how sophisticated a mechanical system we install, the safety and security of the residents can be compromised by careless resident behavior. Students should think about this the next time they are tempted to prop open a door or not lock their room doors.
DATA
Housing and Food Services provides personal network connections in most residence rooms. Students can access the Penn State computer Internet using their own personal computers. Any student using a personal computer to access the network acknowledges a responsibility to act in accordance with relevant policies including:
This policy is agreed to when an access account with the Center for Academic Computing is activated. Violation of policy or law may result in suspension of network access or other information service privileges, disciplinary action, and legal proceedings. Information pertaining to the data connection is available from Residential Computing (Rescue), which has a helpdesk on campus or in certain residence areas. More information is available online at www.rescom.psu.edu.
NETWORK
The student's use of the network connection is subject to compliance with the Terms and Conditions found online at www.rescom.psu.edu. By registering for or using a network connection, the student agrees to be bound by the Terms and Conditions. Specific information about illegal activity, bandwidth limitations, inappropriate content, personal responsibilities, and other network connection limitations can be found online at www.rescom.psu.edu.
PHONE INFORMATION
There are no active telephone landlines in student rooms. Students are encouraged to use the courtesy phones located in the residence hall hallways for security and local calls. Upon request, an individual landline may be activated for a specified charge. Interested students should contact their Housing and Food Services office.
BICYCLES, IN LINE SKATES, AND SKATEBOARDS
Bicycles are to be placed in the bicycle racks located outside the residence halls. Bicycles are not permitted in student rooms, lounges, laundries, hallways, bathrooms, dining halls, or other public areas. Students may be held responsible for damages. Skateboards are prohibited on campus. In-line skates are not permitted to be worn in the residence halls or dining commons.
DAMAGES
Liability Policy
GAMBLING
Gambling in University-owned residence halls apartments, and commons buildings, which is in violation of federal, state, and local laws is prohibited. Students involved in gambling-related incidents may face legal and/or disciplinary action.
FORWARDING ADDRESS
For mail to be forwarded at the end of the academic year, the student will need to update their permanent address in eLion.
PETS
Animals of any type are not permitted in residence halls for reasons of sanitation and safety. Tropical fish and goldfish, in one small tank not more than 5 gallons (U.S.), are the only pets permitted.
STORAGE
There is limited storage space for bins and suitcases in student rooms. Storage between spring and fall semesters is not available. The University is not responsible for loss of items placed in storage rooms.
Residence hall students who engage in behavior that violates the Terms, Conditions, and Regulations of the Housing and Food Service Contract and/or the Student Code of Conduct will be required to work with the staff of Residence Life and/or Office of Student Conduct to resolve the issue. Outcomes may include, but are not limited to, educational sanctions, contract review, change of housing assignment, contract termination, and disciplinary action. Guidelines and procedures related to this process are available by contacting any Residence Life staff member.
ADMINISTRATIVE CONTRACT CANCELLATIONS/ ROOM REASSIGNMENTS
In addition to the foregoing, the University reserves the right to cancel or deny a contract to a student, or to change the assignment of a student, if that student engages in the following conduct:
The University, at its discretion, may determine whether a student who engages in the conduct mentioned above shall be covered by the preceding provision related to violations or whether the student should have a fair and equitable hearing by the Senior Director of Residence Life. In the latter case, the student will have the right to appeal to the assistant vice president for Housing, Food Services, and Residence Life, who will retain final authority in such cases.
The University reserves the right to deny or cancel a Housing and Food Service Contract or lease for University-provided housing to an individual whose conduct and/or proven criminal record indicates a potential threat or danger to the University community, including students, faculty, and staff. Any student who is not in registered status will have a financial hold place don his or her student record for housing and food service charges incurred during the semester. Subsequent contracts will be denied until all financial holds are satisfied.
The University reserves the right to change the assignment of a student in specific locations in the event that (1) the location is needed for other programs or purposes; (2) the student's room is specially equipped to provide for a medical need and such need arises; and/or (3) conditions in a specific location requires such reassignment to ensure a proper educational environment or the health and safety of individuals. The student will be given area assignment preference after reassignments are complete.
