Introduction
Northwestern State University of Louisiana (NSU) is a public university located in Natchitoches, Louisiana, United States. Established in 1884, NSU is the oldest continually-operating institution of higher learning in the state of Louisiana. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including engineering, nursing, business, education, and more. One of the most important aspects of student life at NSU is dorm living. In this blog post, we will explore the different dorms available to students at NSU and provide a comprehensive guide on what to expect when living on campus.
Dorms at Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Types of Dorms Available
At NSU, there are a variety of dorms available to students. One of the most popular dorms is Varnado Hall, which houses both male and female students on separate floors. Varnado Hall is conveniently located near the center of campus, making it a great option for students who want easy access to classes and other campus facilities. The dorm rooms in Varnado Hall are spacious and comfortable, with each room featuring two beds, two desks, two dressers, and two closets. Additionally, Varnado Hall has several common areas for students to socialize and relax, including a TV lounge, a pool table, and a study room.
Another popular dorm at NSU is University Columns, which is located on the west side of campus. University Columns is an apartment-style dorm, with each unit featuring a kitchen, a living room, two bedrooms, and two bathrooms. This dorm is ideal for students who want more privacy and independence than traditional dorms offer. Additionally, University Columns has a pool, a sand volleyball court, and a fitness center, making it a great option for students who enjoy an active lifestyle.
Amenities and Facilities
One of the best things about living in a dorm at NSU is the wide range of amenities and facilities available to students. For example, all dorms have laundry facilities, so students don’t have to worry about finding a laundromat off campus. Additionally, many dorms have study rooms and computer labs, making it easy for students to work on assignments and projects without leaving their dorm building.
Another great feature of dorm living at NSU is the dining options. All dorms have a meal plan available, and there are several dining locations on campus, including a cafeteria, a Subway, a Starbucks, and more. Additionally, some dorms have kitchens available for students who want to cook their own meals.
In terms of recreational facilities, NSU has several options available to dorm residents. For example, many dorms have lounges and common areas where students can hang out, watch TV, or play games. Additionally, NSU has a fitness center, a pool, and a sand volleyball court that are available to all students.
Student Life and Community
One of the most important aspects of dorm living at NSU is the sense of community and student life that it provides. Living in a dorm allows students to interact with a wide variety of people from different backgrounds and majors, which can help them build valuable relationships and connections. Additionally, many dorms have resident assistants (RAs) who help plan social events and activities for students, such as movie nights, game tournaments, and more.
Another great feature of dorm living at NSU is the convenience of being close to campus facilities and events. Students who live in dorms can easily walk to classes, the library, and other campus facilities, which can help them save time and money on transportation. Additionally, NSU has a wide range of clubs and organizations available to students, and living in a dorm can make it easier for students to participate in these activities.
Roommate and Housing Assignments
Living in a dorm at NSU also means having a roommate, which can be both exciting and challenging. Roommate assignments are typically made based on a student’s preferences, such as smoking/non-smoking, studying habits, and sleep schedules. However, it’s important to keep in mind that living with someone else can be a learning experience and require some compromise and communication.
Housing assignments are made on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s important to apply for housing early to ensure a spot in the dorm of your choice. Additionally, NSU offers a housing waitlist for students who miss the initial deadline, so it’s never too late to apply for housing.
Tips for Living in a Dorm at NSU
Living in a dorm can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging at times. Here are some tips to help make the most of your dorm experience at NSU:
Get to know your roommate – Communication and compromise are key to a successful roommate relationship. Take the time to get to know your roommate and establish some ground rules for living together.
Get involved in campus activities – Living in a dorm makes it easier to participate in campus events and activities. Take advantage of the opportunities available to you and get involved in a club or organization.
Keep your room clean – Living in close quarters with someone else can be challenging, especially if the room is cluttered and messy. Make an effort to keep your side of the room clean and tidy to avoid unnecessary stress and tension.
Be respectful of your neighbors – Living in a dorm means being part of a larger community. Be mindful of your noise level and be respectful of your neighbors’ space and privacy.
Conclusion
Living in a dorm at NSU can be an exciting and rewarding experience. From the wide range of amenities and facilities to the sense of community and student life, dorm living offers many benefits for students. By following these tips and making the most of your dorm experience, you can have a successful and enjoyable time at NSU.