GSC Housing, Residence Life Hosts Weekend Welcome Evening Event
By Karolina Philmon, GSC Marketing Manager
Gordon State College Housing and Residence Life (HRL) hosted their annual Open House Halls evening event on Saturday, July 9, for incoming students and their families on the Barnesville campus from 7-8:30 p.m.
The event was planned to give incoming students and their guests the opportunity to view housing options and the campus on a weekend rather than during the week where many aren’t able to attend.
“The HRL Team is always excited to welcome incoming students and proud to support their future independence as a resource for the on-campus living experience. This weekend event is one we plan during the summer months to give students and parents an opportunity to learn about the campus, meet familiar faces and connect with potential roommates/hallmates for a lifetime of fun-filled memories,” said GSC Director of Housing and Residence Life, Tonya Coleman, Ed.D.
Attendees were greeted by HRL student leaders and taken on an abbreviated campus tour showcasing main buildings such as the Student Activity and Recreation Center (SARC) and Gordon Hall-Public Safety as well as Gordon Village, Gordon Commons, and Melton Hall residential housing. Pictures were welcomed and encouraged of the showrooms during the tour. Student leaders distributed information packets highlighting housing specifics and aided with application submissions. A Financial Aid representative was available to meet virtually with anyone needing to review processing needs.
During the tour, guests who completed the campus trivia were eligible to win prizes upon completion. By the end of the evening, there were two winners who received a gift card sponsored by Zaxby’s. In addition, some incoming students got the chance to meet their roommates for the upcoming fall 2022 semester.
GSC HRL aims to provide a complete college experience for those that have chosen to live on campus. Experiencing campus living at GSC provides students the opportunity to exercise their independence and strengthen their interpersonal skills while using college resources to save time and money. Along with providing numerous options for leadership development, the residence halls also elevate social awareness through exposure to various events and programs.
Alumnus Alvin D. Stephens, recent spring 2022 graduate from Troup County chose to stay on campus rather than commute to gain independence.
“I wanted to get a feel of what it was like to be an adult and handle life responsibilities on my own,” Stephens said. “I made connections with peers I wouldn’t have otherwise and developed lifelong friendships and memories.”
Jordan Stennis, GSC junior and nursing major has chosen campus living while completing her college journey.
“Living in the dorms directly out of high school and not having my mom’s guidance consistently has matured me and allowed me independence,” Stennis said.
GSC has invested in its virtual IT infrastructure to include significant wireless upgrades for the residence halls. Visitation privileges have also been upgraded. Early sign-up entries for the housing ’22-’23 academic year will be entered into a drawing of various incentives including GSC Bookstore gift cards, VIP parking spaces for registered vehicles, VIP guest stay for family and friends, and GSC Meal Plan Bucks.
Alumnus Andrew J. Brown, recent spring 2022 graduate from Fayette County had one reason in choosing to stay on campus.
“My house was too far. That was my main reason. But ever since the first night to my final night, I felt as if I was at home,” Brown said. “I wouldn’t give up the experience. My one reason turned into many reasons.”