Philosophy

The Office of Residential Life provides a residential experience for the enhancement of academic achievement and personal development.  Skidmore regards students as maturing individuals and expect students to accept a large measure of responsibility for their personal, academic, and social lives.

The Office of Residential Life encourages and provides an atmosphere where serious academic study occurs and a variety of social and cultural opportunities are provided.  Students learn and apply the concepts of responsibility to one's self and the community.

On campus living is not always comfortable.  Students often experience interpersonal tension, value conflicts, and other discomforts.  Learning how to respond maturely, responsibly, and creatively is a powerful educational experience.  Residential Life staff helps students learn from the challenges and opportunities campus life presents.

Mission

The Office of Residential Life at Skidmore College endeavors to create supportive living environs conducive to active inter-personal growth and civic engagement.  We provide multiple housing options, serve as a resource to students living off campus, and foster personal accountability through student conduct processes and procedures.

Department Values

• Accountability
• Civic engagement
• Inclusivity
• Open communication
• Personal and professional growth
• Reflection and assessment

Residential Learning Outcomes

Students will learn:

• The role residential living plays in a liberal arts education.
• To maintain personal accountability for their actions.
• To navigate interpersonal relationships in a mature fashion.
• To identify their role in a global society.
• To be an active part of the Skidmore community.
• To embrace their independence through development of life skills.
• To be successful in their academic pursuits.
• To engage in the development of their personal identity.