Eco Interest Floor

Since I'm the supervisor for SOPE (Sustaining Our Planet Earth) here at Oakland University, I thought I would share a little bit about our Eco Interest Community on the 2nd floor of Vandenberg. Like the name would suggest their focus is to reduce, recycle, and recycle. They sorta have two residence assistants. One that is a regular RA, and another that is the SOPE Eco Interest Team Leader. The Eco Interest Team Leader plans different events and programs for the students living on the floor to teach them about sustainability and how to be a green grizzly!

Don't Waste Water event

last year's eco interest team leader Shannon giving a thumbs up. This year she will be SOPE's Ambassador for the Oakland Center

Eco Leaders Banquet

Green Halloween

The whole team!

nature walk

Greening of Detroit

Some of the students made recycled picture frames out of old magazines

The team helping recycle at freshmen move in

Cheyenne's recycled valentine at the "For the Love of the Earth" program

Eco Interest students helping others with tye dye and henna tattos

Trip to Yates Cider Mill

Some Benefits of Living on Campus

Going back home for the holiday weekend reminded me that even though I love my family, I am so glad that I chose to live on campus during my college experience. There are so many great opportunities and advantages that I would’ve never had if I drove back and forth to school.

Not having to deal with morning traffic

If I had a dime for every time a commuter told me how horrible traffic was on the way to school or how much they dislike trying to find a parking spot in the morning, I would be a very rich woman.  Being able to sleep in, get ready, and make the 5 minute walk to class is by far one of the best things in the world.

Being able to be a Leader

Living on campus gives you the opportunity to be in RHA, Hall councils, SOPE and certain jobs like being an RA and working the mail desk that are only available to students living in the Residence Halls. These positions can also give you the experience you need to land more positions.

Freedom

There is no way I could’ve ever convinced my parentals that a 4am trip to walmart to grab ice cream and a movie with my friends is necessary.

Being responsible for myself

While some people still need their parents to help keep them focused, being on your own forces you to think for yourself. It helps you grow as an adult and learn to do things on your own

While still having some help

That being said, you’re not completely on your own.  Living on campus means that you have certain helpful resources like tutors, free toilet paper/laundry, and food in the Vandenburg Dining Center. Not to mention if you ever need anything, your friends are practically next door.