Jump start your JMU experience by participating in JMU's
Environment & Sustainability Residential Learning Community.
Interested in living with a small cohort of students in Paul Jennings Hall, exploring sustainability with faculty members, and creating a healthier planet? This Residential Learning Community (RLC) is for you!
Who is it for?
The Environment and Sustainability RLC is for first-year students interested in making a difference in the world and building lasting friendships. Any incoming first-year student can apply to become part of the Environment and Sustainability RLC. There will be participants from many majors who share an interest in environmental stewardship and sustainability. With activities that include workshops, a long-term service project, and discussions, student participants develop knowledge and skills to enable them to better contribute to a sustainable future. The RLC integrates academic, social, and residential life, as students build supportive relationships within a cohort for a truly enjoyable and meaningful college experience.
Where will you live?
One of the benefits of being a part of the Environment and Sustainability RLC is living in a new residence hall, Paul Jennings Hall, that is close to East Campus Dining Hall, UREC, the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum, the EnGeo Building, and King Hall. Opened in 2019, Paul Jennings Hall is home to 500 JMU students and features a learning commons, great room, and grab-and-go dining option. The layout of the hall allows both returning-student communities and first-year communities throughout. In place of stalls, the community bathrooms have individual rooms, each with their own sink, shower, and commode, which provide privacy and convenience.
What courses will you take?
Students will take a special section of ISAT 280 (1 unit) in fall. The course will include readings and assigments that focus on environment and sustainability. Many course meetings will be outdoors in the Arboretum Pavilion, and we'll learn about campus sustainability from areas across the university.
RLC students in all majors, as well as RLC students who have not declared a major, may fully participate. Students are required to participate in the co-curricular component that includes the workshops and service. Topics covered will include campus sustainability, the Sustainable Development Goals, environmental issues, environmental health, and environmental justice.
How do you apply?
Incoming first-year students can apply online here beginning in early April 2023.
Questions?
Please contact the RLC Faculty Coordinator Dr. Christie-Joy Hartman.
For a list of RLC FAQ's, visit JMU's Office of Residence Life.
