THE LIVING LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

The University of Iowa has determined that through emphasis on the living learning environment it has improved freshman retention by eight percent. Other studies would imply that this percentage is improved with professional and graduate student living learning environments.

New studies of student living and learning environments and achievement practices practiced at various U.S. Universities further underscores the importance and viability of the RH/RS Living Learning Program. The RH/RS Living Learning Program predates many of the now newly touted examples pointing to more successful student academic achievement. In addition, increased governmental and societal pressures on pass ratios and student achievement are bringing new levels of pressure on measured success rates. With constantly changing educational patterns the very successful Living Learning Program of RH/RS has undergone a major self study to document program strengths with a view toward identifying potentially
relevant academic success enhancing improvements.

The RH/RS Living Learning Program already encompasses, provides and carefully monitors the following areas proven by experience and practice to be significantly academically enhancing for a successful living learning environment:

Quiet hour observance for week days and exam period weekends beginning at 10 PM monitored by peer students elected to RH and RS councils.
24 hour security monitoring both by electronic and on-site trained security personnel.
Resident student elected councils meet weekly with RH/RS management counsel or staff.
RH and RS counseling and mentoring.
Separated special study rooms and areas for students who wish to study alone in quiet space.
Full kitchen and laundry facility privileges for student residents.
An IT specialist lives on premises to assist resident students with technological situations.
Semester start-up and special needs transportation.
“Special call” response taxicab arrangements.
Electricity, telephone, internet, water and premium TV channeling are provided which eliminates the hassle of students having to place deposits and deal with several different service providers.
The RH hosts semester BBQ events sponsored by SMU.
Special occasion buffets and party events are provided for student residents.
The RH/RS manager is provided for other campus housing needs and coordination for students necessitating alternative housing arrangements.
The RH and RS provide available inexpensive accommodations for parents and relatives visiting student residents.
The RH/RS management conducts continuous verbal surveys and periodic written questionnaire surveys to assure continuous quality control of the living learning environment and to make service and facility changes on an on-going basis.
Negotiated discounts from vendors and merchants for student residents.
RH & RS collection policy benevolently works with every student individually who encounter financial difficulties to tailor payment plans that fit their circumstances and thus reduce personal stress to enable them to better concentrate on their studies.

New enhancements for the Living Learning Environment

The most recent survey conducted indicated that the following improvements would be potentially beneficial in this already high qualitative living learning environment. As the result, the following are being implemented:

New larger capacity refrigerator/freezer units are being installed in the RH rooms.
Air conditioner units are being upgraded as required
The RS has invested in the hardware and software for 10 apartment units to provide residents with the option of controlling their own electric and water costs.
RH residents continuing on to the next semester will no longer need to vacate their rooms during semester breaks and vacation periods.
Student tutors are encouraged where appropriate to live in the living learning environment.

Additional housing grants are being provided for students who commit to live in the RH or
RS living learning environment for three semesters. Based on the experience of other living learning
environment outcomes it would be anticipated that the academic success rate of those students electing
this program would be somewhat to considerably better than the whole of the student group.

The Living Learning Program implemented at the Residence Hall and Residence Suites in 2003 has proven itself as a very successful support method for enhancing the probability of academic success for students pursuing a medical degree at St. Matthew’s University. This living learning environment program strictly adheres to the same ethical and behavioral standards expected of future physicians set by St. Matthew’s University policies and the student handbook. A prime example of the success of the RH/RS living learning environment is that a very high percentage of the students who lived in the RH/RS environment for three or more semesters passed the Step One USMLE exam on the first try. New studies of student retention and new student retention practices implemented at various U.S. Universities further underscores the importance and viability of the RH/RS Living Learning Program. The RH/RS Living Learning Program predates many of the now newly touted examples of studies pointing to more successful student academic achievement and the following policies have been adapted to that environment as further effort to enhance the potential for medical student academic success.

1. The agent of U.P reserves the right to make decisions regarding room assignments, the right to refuse assignments and the right to terminate occupancy of residents.

2. The management, including the Board of Directors and any agent acting on behalf of U.P, reserves the right to enter and inspect an apartment:
a. when it appears that an occupant of the Residence Hall may be physically endangered,
b. when it appears that the apartment may be damaged,
c. when it appears that an apartment policy is being violated, or,
d. for periodic scheduled maintenance or inspections
3. If a student pays the initial deposit to secure their room and then is unable to attend St. Matthew’s University, a full refund will be made if St. Matthew’s University is informed via email within three (3) business days of submitting the deposit. Email confirmation should be sent to amarin@stmatthews.edu. If St. Matthew’s University is not informed via email of the intent not to attend within three (3) business days of submitting the deposit, it will be forfeited.

4. Only full-time, enrolled students (or approved spouses) may reside in the Residence Hall.

5. Rooms may not be sublet.

6. The lessee agrees to use his/her room for living purposes only.

7. All rooms are tobacco-free. Tobacco products must be used outside of the Residence Hall in the designated area. Cigarette butts must be disposed of properly. Any open flames, including candles, incense and burners are prohibited. A fine system is in place.

8. Any resident inviting a guest shall inform the management at least one week before their expected arrival and register the guest at the Front Desk:

• A charge of CI$ 20 per night will be added to the student’s account for guests.
a. Guest needs to be identified by front desk and security personnel.
b. Students are and will be held responsible for the conduct of their guest.
c. The management reserves the right to refuse any guest or requests for accommodations of guests.
d. Other policies relating to guests are available from management.

9. It is a fundamental right of each student to have sufficient quietness to study in his/her room at any time. Quiet hours may be adjusted during Finals Week. Failure to comply with the above will be grounds for cancellation of a lease and forfeiture of the deposit. Management retains the right to refuse visitation privileges of any individual requesting entry into the Residence Hall Quiet hours shall be in effect as follows:
• Sunday through Thursday: 10.00pm to 10.00am
• Friday and Saturday: Midnight to 10.00am

10. The hours of visitation in the Residence Hall are as follows
• Sunday to Thursday: 10.00am to 10.00pm
• Friday and Saturday: 10.00am to 10.00pm
Management retains the right to refuse visitation privileges of any individual requesting entry into the residence hall.

11. After 10.00pm, the front entrance of the Residence Hall will be the only door remaining open. Between 10.00pm and 7.00am, security will allow residents and approved guests, access to the Hall upon presentation of appropriate identification. Students should carry their SMU Identification Card with them at all times.

12. The right of a student to live in reasonable privacy has precedence over the right of his/her roommate to entertain guests in a shared room. In the practical application of determining when guests should be invited in the room, common sense and respect should prevail.

13. Unauthorized cohabitation is prohibited and will result in termination of the contract.

14. For studying purposes, students are permitted to have a total of 3 persons per single, and 6 per double room.

15. The student agrees to be responsible the following maintenance requirements: malfunction/damage of appliances, equipment or property must be reported immediately to management through a Student Request Form, available at the front desk. The student shall make no alterations of any type to said property. Only university maintenance personnel are permitted to make repairs. Windows are not to be opened while the air conditioning is running.

16. Students shall use all areas of the Residence Hall and its premises, including personal property and furnishings, in a careful and proper manner. At the expiration of a student’s contract, the student shall leave their room in condition in which it was received. Students shall pay for any and all damages to the room and/or its equipment and furnishings. The amount of damages and student liability shall be determined by management and will be charged to the student’s account. The entire deposit, or any portion thereof, may be applied against damages. DO NOT HANG CLOTHES ON SPRINKLER SYSTEM.

17. The use, possession and/or sale of illegal substances or drug paraphernalia is strictly prohibited. Such activity is cause for termination of the Residence Hall contract. U.P and St. Matthew’s University School of Medicine have a “ZERO TOLERANCE” policy in regards to possession or use of drugs and/or paraphernalia. Such activity will result in presentation of charges by the St. Matthews University Disciplinary Committee and may include penalties up to, and including dismissal from the university.

18. There will be no changes or transfers of apartments in the Residence Hall during a semester. If an occupant vacates a room, the remaining students will agree to accept another roommate as assigned or move into another apartment if requested by management. Any changes have to be authorized by management.

19. Students will have the right to choose a roommate. If roommate names are not provided with the resident hall application, management reserves the right to arrange for roommate.

20. Only full-time enrolled students have access to Residence Hall conveniences. Guests are permitted in the Residence Hall according to Residence Hall Policies.

21. When an apartment is vacated at the end of, or during a semester, room keys or cards must be returned to management. Deposit refund will not be made until all cards or keys have been returned. A fee of CI$ 125 may be charged for an improper check-out procedure.
Refunds normally take 3weeks to be issued. Please email management for questions.

22. All residents shall be responsible for their automobiles and personal possessions and should have them properly insured. U.P will not be held responsible for damages or loss of resident’s personal effects. U.P carries no insurance covering such losses.

23. The following are not permissible and are subject to commensurate damage costs, as applicable: painting of rooms, homemade bunk beds, lofts, overhead frames, additional walls, use of any adhesive, and contact paper or other material that may damage floors, walls or ceilings.

24. Solicitation is not permitted without prior approval of management.

25. Furniture and/or equipment shall not be removed from its original location in the complex for any reason. The loss of, or damage to furniture and/or equipment will be assessed against the student.

26. While cooking in the shared kitchen, students are expected to clean after they are finished.

27. Coin operated washers and dryers are available only to students residing in the Residence Hall. The Residence Hall will not be responsible for any losses or damages incurred in the Laundry Room.

28. Cleaning services will be provided once a week. Students are asked to facilitate the service by removing objects from the floor. Students are required to remove their garbage.

29. If a room is inspected and found to be damaged, the student will be given a week to repair or arrange the damages. Failure to comply with this request will result in administration making repairs and charging the repairs to the student’s account.

30. Bicycles and motorbikes may not be brought into the Residence Hall. There are designated areas to park bikes and/or scooters.

31. No firearms or weapons, including martial arts equipment, ammunition, fireworks, or any other weapons are permitted on the premises or in the Residence Hall.

32. Inappropriate behaviors that violate St. Matthews University or U.P Policies and Procedures and/or Cayman Island law will be referred to the Residence Hall Manager.

33. Policies at the Residence Hall are subject to change. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or delete policies.

We hope you will enjoy your stay with us. We are here to provide you with, a safe and quiet environment that will enhance your academic experience.
I have read, understand and agree to the terms and conditions listed above and certify that the above statements and information provided are correct and complete.

Residence-Hall-Policies

Residence-Hall-FAQs download

Q1: Is there a kitchen for cooking?
A: A fully equipped kitchen is available. It has a standard oven, microwave, stove and sinks. You must provide your own utensils, plates and glassware. Bring Tupperware for food storage.

Q2: Will staff be available?
A: Yes, staff of the Residence Hall will help you with your needs and questions. The front desk will be open from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 9:00 pm on Saturday and closed on Sunday.

Q3: What is provided in the room?
A: Rooms have: wardrobe (two in Suites), a bed for each occupant, microwave, mid size refrigerator/freezer, cable, internet, study desk and chair for each occupant, drawer unit, shower and sink, bathroom, and AC. Students must provide own television sets, we suggest purchasing from a student on-island. Please bring an Ethernet cord for your wall connection

Q4: What can I add to the room?
A: coffee pot, teapot, rice cooker and toaster.

Q5: Can I have a hot plate?
A: Hot plates and/or grills are not allowed for safety reasons.

Q6: Do I need to bring towels, sheets, pillow and converters?
A: Yes, bring towels, pillow and bedding. Converters are not required. The electricity is 110 volts, the same as the U.S. Please see page 3 for bed sheet sizes.

Q7: Why is staying at the Residence Hall mandatory?
A: The living learning environment established at the Residence Hall and Residence Suites in 2003 has proven successful to promote academic success. Based on experience of this program and other academic success studies students living in the Residence Hall have shown to be more academically successful when their housing needs are provided in an academic atmosphere ensuring a smooth and quiet transition in an international and rigorous academic setting.

Q8: Who is exempt from the Resident Hall?
A: Students who are married or bring children, or a bona fide pet. The residence hall exemption request form must be submitted along with a copy of dependent visa endorsement or copy of your Cayman pet permit. The Residence Suites has special terms available for married students.

Q9: Can I live in the Residence Hall with my significant other?
A: Married students may reside in the residence hall, based on space availability. Married students will be required to live in a double room, with each person paying the double occupancy fee. The Residence Suites has special terms available for married students.

Q10: Are children allowed in the Residence Hall with parents? If not can they visit?
A: In our desire to provide an academic environment, the Residence Hall cannot have children on the premises.
Q11: How far is the Residence Hall from the School? How long by car? How long by bike? Will transportation be provided?
A: The Residence Hall is two miles from the campus. Driving will take between five and ten minutes, depending on traffic. Cycling will take approximately 10 minutes, varying based on your speed. A bus service will be provided to and from campus for as long as the students are using it. The cost is 2$ per trip.

Q12: Is there room for me to park my car?
A: The Residence Hall has limited parking space allocated on first come basis.

Q13: Are there phones in the rooms? Do I have long distance access in the rooms?
A: There are no phone lines in the rooms. We suggest that you sign up with one of the pre-paid cell phone programs the university has prepared for you. Long distance plans available.

Q14: How is the grocery store, shops and restaurants?
A: A modern supermarket is within a five minute walking distance from the Residence Hall. Restaurants, fast food establishments and shops are within a one minute walking distance.

Q15: How long can I stay in the Residence Hall?
A: One semester is required. It may be possible to stay longer, based on availability.

Q16: Can I drink liquor by the pool?
A: Consumption of alcoholic beverages is not allowed in any area of the facility other than your room.
Q17: I am an adult; can my local girlfriend/boyfriend spend the night in my room?
A: You will need to register your guest according to the Residence Hall policies described earlier.

Q18: What other facilities are available at the Residence Hall?
A: The facilities include a swimming pool, outside chairs and tables, vending machines, coin operated washer/dryer, and a kitchen.

Q19: How do I pay my residence hall fees?
A: Full housing payment for the four-month semester is expected upfront at registration. Housing rent will be taken in advance from any loan companies before the student refund is made. Students not on financial aid will be expected to provide a check or cashier’s check for the four months (semester) rent no later than the first day of class. Failure to make payment will result in the student being removed from student housing and he/she will be placed in “not good standing” with the university.

Q20: How is my deposit handled?
A: A deposit of US$ 1,000.00 will be required to secure the room prior to arriving at the university or 500$ if you are signing for a 3 semesters contract. This deposit will be shifted to a “damage deposit” upon arrival at the residence hall. The damage deposit will be held in addition to the rent during the period that the student resides in residence hall. The damage deposit will be returned to the student given that the inspection of the room upon leaving reveals no damage outside normal wear. If a student pays the initial deposit to secure their room and then is unable to attend St. Matthew’s University, a full refund will be made if St. Matthew’s University is informed via email within three (3) business days of submitting the deposit. Email confirmation should be sent to amarin@stmatthews.edu. If St. Matthew’s University is not informed via email of the intent not to attend within three (3) business days of submitting the deposit, it will be forfeited.
Q21: Can I leave the RH when I choose?
A: once you have checked in, you are responsible for the entire semester fee. No refund will be issued.

Q22: How many different types of rooms are in the Residence Hall?
A: The Residence Hall has 79 standard single rooms, 30 standard suites and 8 deluxe suites.

Q23: What bed size in each room?
A: Standard single rooms and deluxe suites have a full double bed. Standard suites double occupancy rooms have a twin bed and standard suites single occupancy rooms have a king size bed.

Q24: When can I check in and check out?
A: The earliest check in date if the Friday before the classes starts.

Q25: I signed a three semesters contract, what happen if I decided to break it?
A: You would reimburse the benefit of the housing grant price per semester and lose your deposit.