James Madison University

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RLC FAQs

  • What does RLC stand for? RLC stands for Residential Learning Community.

  • If I am in a RLC will I be able to meet other people? Yes, you will meet lots of other people. The RLC will be just one group of friends you are sure to make here at JMU.

  • How large are the RLCs? RLCs range in size from 18-30 depending upon the year and specific group.

  • What day is move in from the RLCs? Move in for the RLCs is Tuesday. Wednesday is a special lunch for all RLC members. It is the first opportunity you will have to meet with your faculty members.

  • How much time will be involved with the RLCs outside of the classroom? This really depends on the RLC but they tend to have lots of fun activities outside the classroom like trips to Kings Dominion, Baltimore aquarium, local service projects, etc.

  • Is there an advantage to applying for a RLC? Yes, you get to know faculty members right from the beginning of your college career. Ask a senior, knowing your faculty members can provide different opportunities for you here at JMU.

  • Are there RLCs for second year students? Yes, Roop, Honors and Madison International all offer an optional second year component.

Selection Process

  • How do I get selected to participate in a RLC? You will complete a special interest housing application and the faculty working with each of the RLCs will determine who is accepted.

  • When do I have to decide if I want to participate? Applications are due at the same time as your housing contract; however, we will continue to accept applications until the RLCs are full. To have the best chance to get into your first choice of RLC be sure to apply by the deadline. All late applications are decided upon a rolling admission based on space available.

  • How do I find out if I got accepted into a RLC? You will get an email to your JMU email account providing your status.

Roommates

  • If I get chosen to participate in a RLC, will my roommate have to be in the same one? No, in fact you roommate does not have to be in any of the RLCs.

  • Can my roommate and I be in the same RLC? Yes. Please, remember roommates are only assigned together if they mutually request one another.

  • Can my roommate and I be in different RLCs? Yes, as long as both RLCs are housed in the same building.

Location

  • What halls are the RLCs in? The RLCs are all in handicap accessible, air conditioned buildings. Currently, the RLCs are in Chesapeake, Gifford, Hoffman, and Wayland.

Classes

  • Do I have to take all the courses associate with the RLC or can I pick and choose? Once accepted you will need to take all the courses associated with the RLC. If you drop one you will be dropped from the community and your housing assignment may be changed before your arrival.

  • How do I know what classes to take? Once selected into a RLC you will be pre registered for the associated courses. If at Springboard you adjust your schedule be sure to not drop one of the RLC courses. You advisor will have information in your folder but be sure to remind them you have been selected into a RLC.

Our Mission Statement

The Office of Residence Life at James Madison University is committed to designing and maintaining a caring environment that encourages academic success, respect, personal growth and responsibility to one's community.

Photos

PHOTO: rlc logophoto Trelawny Learning Community members take a road trip to Washington D.C. National Zoo PHOTO: TLC members
Roop Learning Community members take a trip to Kings Dominion in VA for a day filled with fun and physics study.