Nebraska Residential Experience
Every student’s experience is different. At Nebraska, we are committed to creating meaningful learning experiences that help students develop, grow and thrive.
The Nebraska Residential Experience is the guiding residential program implemented in the halls by University Housing Residence Life staff. Our goal is to develop engaging communities where residents can have transformational experiences, connect to campus resources and create relationships. The NRE aligns with the larger Student Affairs Curricular Approach, meaning that staff across the entire university are working together toward common goals and outcomes.
Throughout the year, hall programming is thoughtfully designed to help students grow in four key areas. We want all Huskers to Lead, Learn, Include, and Engage at Nebraska and beyond.
LEAD
Students will be able to:
- Describe the attributes of an effective leader.
- Engage as a leader.
- Evaluate their leadership.
- Develop future leaders.
Some of the first leadership opportunities available to students are based in the residence halls. Whether joining Residence Hall Association, local hall councils, or applying to be part of the National Residence Hall Honorary, students can find innovative ways to impact their communities right away.
Student staff positions like Resident Assistants, Learning Community Peer Mentors, and Desk Assistants also offer the chance to hone leadership skills that will prepare students for future success in the workplace.
LEARN
Students will be able to:
- Understand why and how people learn.
- Engage as a learner.
- Establish a growth mindset.
- Evaluate their impact on others.
At Nebraska, learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom. Within the residence halls, students continue to grow and explore, seeking out new perspectives in order to develop personal principles, values, and a sense of purpose to guide their lives. Residence Life strives to foster an environment where students can thoughtfully reflect and develop a lifelong curiosity for new ideas.
INCLUDE
Students will be able to:
- Define terms and concepts related to inclusion and diversity.
- Articulate their identities.
- Communicate effectively across differences.
- Advocate for more socially just and equitable communities.
One of Residence Life’s primary goals is to provide a safe and secure home for all residents. This means students should feel valued, respected, and treated equitably by peers and staff. Hall programming aims to educate students about the diversity among our Husker community and affirm each student’s lived experience.
ENGAGE
Students will be able to:
- Cultivate respectful relationships and compassion.
- Contribute intentionally to their communities.
- Develop sustainability skills.
- Build resilience and support the flourishing of self and others.
Relationships and community are key pillars of Residence Life. Forming strong friendships and connections with peers and staff helps students flourish socially, emotionally, and academically. Residence Life also serves as an excellent source of information about involvement opportunities in the halls, across campus, and in the local community and can help connect students to an area that fits their passions.