The university is a large and sometimes intimidating place. With about 25,000 undergrads, more than 300 student groups, 27 varsity sports teams and more than 100 majors, it’s easy to slip through the cracks. The beauty of this university, however, is that getting involved and voicing your opinions about issues you want to see changed is extremely simple and even more gratifying. The university’s Residence Halls Association strives to foster this mentality.
The RHA is one of the university’s most prestigious student-government organizations. It focuses on issues concerning the on-campus student body. The organization comprises student representatives from the 13 hall/area councils on the campus. These students are elected to voice their constituents’ concerns regarding Resident Life, Residential Facilities, Transportation Services and Dining Services.
As representatives for the premier lobbying group for on-campus students, the senators sit on committees where they meet with the directors of the four aforementioned departments. In addition to the policy-related branch of the RHA, the hall/area councils include other positions aimed at building a sense of community in their particular residential area and, ultimately, the campus as a whole.
In the past year, RHA members worked to serve their constituents by improving the university. For example, you may have noticed late night at the dining halls during finals week began last semester.
In order to better convenience the student population, the RHA consistently met with the Department of Residential Facilities to push for wireless Internet and peep-holes in all residence halls. The RHA has also continually voiced a desire to reform Nite Ride. Students were frustrated with the long wait time, and as a result, additional resources have been allocated to Nite Ride. The RHA was also the first student group to endorse the Campus Drive alignment of the Purple Line after several presentations and much contemplation. Underlying all of these accomplishments was the constant passage of legislation aimed at making our campus “greener.” To thoroughly tackle this initiative, the RHA created an ad-hoc sustainability committee which will advise university departments.
Seeing students’ wishes recognized on the campus is an exciting experience, and for that reason, the RHA is always looking for more ways to serve the on-campus population. This fall will see the first mixed-gender housing pilot take place on campus, and the RHA is anxiously awaiting results. While the RHA was triumphant in encouraging Dining Services to eliminate focus dates for sophomores, we will continue to advocate for the complete elimination of focus dates for all students. In reaction to the exciting political climate, the RHA will also be working with Terps Vote, a committee devoted to encouraging student involvement in the national elections. Finally, the RHA will continue to lobby the Board of Regents for more student housing to ensure that students can obtain the living experience they desire.
As you can see, the RHA is a great way to positively affect the on-campus environment. Not only does the organization serve as a tool to mediate change, but it is a great way to get involved, forge relationships, and make this large university feel a bit smaller. To learn more about the RHA please visit www.marylandrha.com and www.marylandrha.blogspot.com. All are welcomed and encouraged to attend our open house Sept. 10, where students can ask specific questions and gain insight about all available positions. Hall/Area Council elections will be taking place on Sept.16 and Sept. 17. Don’t miss out on an amazing opportunity to make a difference on your campus. After all, what have you got to lose?
Alicia Hartlove is the RHA’s public relations officer. She can be reached at ajluv09@umd.edu.
