17th Ave Dorm: Your Guide To UMN Housing

Leana Rogers Salamah
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17th Ave Dorm: Your Guide To UMN Housing

Introduction

Looking for the perfect University of Minnesota (UMN) housing? 17th Avenue Residence Hall offers a vibrant community and convenient location. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything 17th Ave has to offer, from room options to dining and social life. Discover why so many students choose to call 17th Ave home during their time at the U.

1. What is 17th Avenue Residence Hall?

17th Avenue Residence Hall, often called "17th Ave," is one of the largest undergraduate residence halls at the University of Minnesota's Twin Cities campus. It's a hub of student activity, offering a mix of living styles and a strong sense of community. Think of it as a small city within the larger university – a place where you can live, study, socialize, and build lifelong friendships. 17th Ave provides a supportive environment for students transitioning to college life, thanks to its resident advisors (RAs), academic resources, and social programs.

2. Where is 17th Avenue Residence Hall Located?

17th Avenue Residence Hall is located on the East Bank of the University of Minnesota's Twin Cities campus. Its central location provides easy access to many academic buildings, the Recreation and Wellness Center (RecWell), and the bustling Dinkytown neighborhood. You'll find it nestled between University Avenue SE and 17th Avenue SE, making it a prime spot for students who want to be in the heart of the action. The address is generally considered to be in the 300 block of 17th Avenue SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414.

Proximity to Key Locations

  • Academic Buildings: A short walk to many STEM and liberal arts buildings.
  • Recreation and Wellness Center (RecWell): Steps away for easy access to fitness and recreation.
  • Dinkytown: A few blocks from restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
  • Transportation: Close to bus lines and the light rail for getting around campus and the city.

3. What Room Options are Available at 17th Ave?

17th Avenue Residence Hall offers a variety of room configurations to suit different preferences and budgets. While specific layouts can vary slightly, here's a general overview of the options you'll find:

  • Double Rooms: The most common option, housing two students in one room. These rooms typically include two beds, desks, chairs, and closets or wardrobes. Double rooms are a great way to meet new people and save on housing costs.
  • Super-Single Rooms: A standard double room occupied by only one student. These are limited and more expensive, but offer extra space and privacy.
  • Suites: Consist of multiple bedrooms (typically two or three) connected to a shared living space and bathroom. Suites offer a balance of privacy and community, and are often popular among upperclassmen.
  • Single Rooms: Least common, single rooms offer private living for one student. Availability is very limited and prices are usually higher. Single rooms provide maximum privacy for those who prefer it.

Room Amenities

All rooms in 17th Avenue Residence Hall come equipped with basic amenities, including:

  • Bed (Twin XL)
  • Desk and Chair
  • Closet or Wardrobe
  • Internet Access (Wi-Fi)
  • Basic Cable TV

4. What are the Dining Options at 17th Ave?

Living at 17th Avenue Residence Hall puts you in close proximity to a variety of dining options. The University of Minnesota's dining services offer several convenient and tasty choices:

  • Dining Hall: 17th Ave has its own dining hall, offering an all-you-can-eat experience with a rotating menu. This is a great option for quick and convenient meals, and it's included in most student meal plans.
  • Food Court: Located nearby, the food court offers a variety of cuisines, from burgers and fries to pizza and salads. This is a good option for those who want more variety in their meals.
  • Coffee Shops: Several coffee shops are located within walking distance of 17th Ave, perfect for grabbing a quick coffee or snack between classes.
  • Dinkytown Restaurants: Just a short walk away, Dinkytown offers a wide range of restaurants, from casual cafes to upscale dining. This is a great option for exploring different cuisines and supporting local businesses.

The University of Minnesota uses a Gopher Gold card system for on-campus purchases, including food. You can load money onto your Gopher Gold card and use it at any of the university's dining locations.

5. What is the Social Life Like at 17th Ave?

17th Avenue Residence Hall is known for its vibrant and active social life. It's a great place to meet new people, make friends, and get involved in campus activities. Here's a glimpse of what you can expect: Cities Near San Diego: Top Picks & Day Trip Ideas

  • Resident Advisor (RA) Programs: RAs organize a variety of social events throughout the year, from floor meetings and game nights to movie screenings and off-campus trips. These events are a great way to connect with your fellow residents and build a sense of community.
  • Hall Government: 17th Ave has its own hall government, which plans social events and advocates for residents' needs. Getting involved in hall government is a great way to make a difference in your community.
  • Student Groups: The University of Minnesota has hundreds of student groups, covering a wide range of interests. From academic clubs to sports teams to cultural organizations, there's something for everyone. Joining a student group is a great way to meet people who share your interests.
  • Dinkytown: The Dinkytown neighborhood offers a variety of social opportunities, from restaurants and bars to live music venues and theaters. It's a popular spot for students to hang out and socialize.

6. What are the Benefits of Living at 17th Ave?

Living at 17th Avenue Residence Hall offers numerous benefits, especially for first-year students:

  • Community: 17th Ave fosters a strong sense of community, making it easy to meet new people and make friends.
  • Convenience: Its central location provides easy access to academic buildings, dining options, and campus resources.
  • Support: Resident Advisors (RAs) provide support and guidance to residents, helping them navigate college life.
  • Activities: A variety of social and academic programs are offered throughout the year, providing opportunities for engagement and growth.
  • Resources: Access to study lounges, computer labs, and other resources to support academic success.

7. What are Some Potential Drawbacks of Living at 17th Ave?

While 17th Avenue Residence Hall offers many benefits, it's important to be aware of potential drawbacks: 2024 RAV4 Hybrid XSE: Ultimate Guide

  • Noise: As a large residence hall, 17th Ave can be noisy at times, especially during peak hours.
  • Limited Privacy: Sharing a room with one or more roommates can limit privacy.
  • Cost: Housing costs at 17th Ave can be expensive, especially for single rooms or suites.
  • Distance from Some Buildings: While centrally located, it might be a longer walk to some buildings on the West Bank or St. Paul campus.

8. How Much Does it Cost to Live at 17th Ave?

The cost of living at 17th Avenue Residence Hall varies depending on the room type and meal plan you choose. Here's a general estimate of the costs:

  • Double Room: Expect to pay around $4,000 - $5,000 per semester.
  • Super-Single Room: Expect to pay around $6,000 - $7,000 per semester.
  • Suite: Expect to pay around $5,000 - $6,000 per semester.
  • Single Room: Expect to pay around $7,000 - $8,000 per semester.

These costs typically include utilities (water, electricity, internet) and access to on-site amenities. Meal plans are an additional cost, and prices vary depending on the plan you choose. Check the University of Minnesota Housing & Residential Life website for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.

9. How Do I Apply to Live at 17th Ave?

To apply to live at 17th Avenue Residence Hall, you'll need to follow these steps:

  1. Apply to the University of Minnesota: You must be admitted to the University of Minnesota before you can apply for housing.
  2. Submit a Housing Application: Once you've been admitted, you can submit a housing application through the MyU portal. The housing application typically opens in the spring for the following academic year.
  3. Rank Your Preferences: On the housing application, you'll be able to rank your preferences for residence halls and room types. Be sure to rank 17th Avenue Residence Hall if you're interested in living there.
  4. Pay the Housing Deposit: You'll need to pay a housing deposit to secure your spot in university housing.
  5. Receive Your Housing Assignment: Housing assignments are typically released in the summer. You'll receive an email notification when your assignment is available to view in the MyU portal.

Applying early increases your chances of getting your preferred housing assignment, as spaces fill up quickly.

10. Tips for Making the Most of Your Time at 17th Ave

  • Get Involved: Join a student group, attend RA programs, or get involved in hall government. Getting involved is a great way to meet new people and make the most of your college experience.
  • Attend Floor Meetings: Floor meetings are a great way to stay informed about what's happening in your residence hall and on campus.
  • Utilize the Resources: Take advantage of the study lounges, computer labs, and other resources available to residents.
  • Respect Your Roommates: Communicate openly with your roommates and respect their space and privacy.
  • Explore Dinkytown: Take some time to explore the Dinkytown neighborhood and discover all that it has to offer.

FAQ Section

Q1: Is 17th Avenue Residence Hall only for freshman?

No, 17th Avenue Residence Hall houses students of all years, but it is particularly popular with freshmen due to its community-oriented atmosphere and proximity to campus resources. US Phone Number Format: A Complete Guide

Q2: Are there quiet hours at 17th Ave?

Yes, quiet hours are enforced to ensure a conducive study environment. These hours are typically from 10 PM to 8 AM on weekdays and midnight to 10 AM on weekends. RAs monitor and enforce quiet hours.

Q3: Can I bring my car to campus if I live at 17th Ave?

Yes, you can bring a car, but parking on campus is limited and can be expensive. You'll need to purchase a parking permit from the University of Minnesota Parking & Transportation Services. Consider alternative transportation options like buses, light rail, or biking.

Q4: What should I pack when moving into 17th Ave?

Essentials include bedding (Twin XL), toiletries, clothing, school supplies, a laptop, and personal items to make your space feel like home. Coordinate with your roommate(s) to avoid duplicates, especially for items like mini-fridges or TVs. Check the University of Minnesota Housing & Residential Life website for a detailed packing list.

Q5: Are there laundry facilities in 17th Ave?

Yes, laundry facilities are available within the residence hall. You'll typically need to use your U Card or a mobile app to pay for laundry services. Detergent and other laundry supplies are usually available for purchase in the building.

Q6: What if I have a problem with my roommate?

If you're having issues with your roommate, the first step is to try to communicate openly and resolve the issue together. If that's not possible, your Resident Advisor (RA) is a valuable resource. RAs are trained to mediate roommate conflicts and help find solutions. If necessary, you can also contact the Housing & Residential Life office for further assistance.

Q7: How can I get involved in hall government at 17th Ave?

Getting involved in hall government is a great way to make a difference in your community and develop leadership skills. Look for information about elections or open positions at the beginning of each semester. You can also contact your Resident Advisor (RA) or the Housing & Residential Life office for more information.

Conclusion

17th Avenue Residence Hall offers a fantastic living experience for University of Minnesota students, particularly those in their first year. With its prime location, diverse community, and supportive environment, it's a place where students can thrive academically and socially. Ready to make 17th Ave your home? Take the next step and apply for housing today! For more information and to start your application, visit the University of Minnesota Housing & Residential Life website.

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