TRUMAN STATE UNIVERSITY TRUMAN STATE UNIVERSITY Nationally Ranked, Affordable, Personal

Frequently Asked Questions

Admissions  |  Academics  |  Money Matters  |  Student Life  |  Residence Life 

Transfer Student FAQ's


ADMISSIONS

Q: Where are you located?

A: We are located in Kirksville, MO; a community of 17,000 set in the northeast corner of the state, close to the Iowa and Illinois borders. We are about 390 miles from Chicago, 180 miles from Kansas City and 215 miles from St. Louis (280, 130 and 165, respectively, as the crow flies).

Q: How do I apply?

A: Complete an application, send an official high school transcript and send an ACT or SAT score. Please call the Office of Admissions at 1-800-892-7792 or 1-660-785-4114 (out-of-state) for more information. There is no application fee. You can download an application from our website or submit the application online from the Truman State University home page at www.truman.edu.

Q: How long does the essay for admission have to be for the application?

A: Generally, we like to see an essay that is 1-3 pages typed. It doesn’t need references or citations; it just needs to be a well-written essay that displays your writing skills.

Q: When should I apply?

A: The best time to apply is early in your senior year of high school. If you apply by December 15, you will have a better choice of housing and will receive full consideration for scholarships. The spring deadline is March 1.

Q: What are your freshmen admission requirements?

A: Admission to the University is based upon high school curriculum; high school grade point average and rank; standardized test scores (ACT or SAT); special abilities, talents, or achievements; and an essay. Students who receive the strongest consideration for admission to Truman will have a 140-combined ability. The combined ability is determined by adding the high school class rank percent to the national percentile on the ACT or SAT college entrance exam.

Q: What high school courses are required for admission?

A: Truman requires the following high school core: four units English, three units mathematics (four units are strongly recommended), three units social studies/history, three units natural science, one unit fine arts and two units foreign language (same language).

Q: Do I have to send the transcripts from the schools at which I am taking dual enrollment classes?

A: No, not until you finish the classes. We don’t need the college transcripts when you are applying, but after graduation we will need you to send a final transcript from both your high school and all of the colleges/universities you have attended.

Q: Are AP or IB classes weighted?

A: No, we don’t convert AP or IB grades to a higher grade for our grade point average computation.

Q: How do you use two or more sets of SAT/ACT scores?

A: We combine the two highest SAT scores from the math and verbal sections and recognize the highest ACT composite score.

Q: How long does it take to find out an admission decision?

A: It usually takes 2-3 weeks to find out the admission response once all the application materials have been received.

Q: Are there any entrance exams that are required for admission?

A: The only tests that Truman requires for admission are the ACT or SAT. However, you might have noticed there is a variety of tests administered to students preparing for college. The following list explains the most common tests and contact information for each of them:

AP
Advanced Placement Test—Students take college level courses and exams while in high school. (Some high schools do not offer this program.)
www.collegeboard.org
Telephone number: 1-800-728-7267

ACT
ACT Assessment Test—Standardized 2 hour 55 minute exam that measures English, math, reading and science achievements; colleges use it as part of their admission criteria.
www.act.org
Telephone number: 1-800-525-6926

SAT I
Scholastic Assessment Test—Measures the student’s reasoning abilities in verbal and math sections; colleges use it as part of their admission criteria.
www.collegeboard.org
Telephone number: 1-800-728-7267

SAT II
Scholastic Assessment Test Subject Tests—One hour tests that measure knowledge in a particular subject.
www.collegeboard.org
Telephone number: 1-800-728-7267

PSAT
Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test—Exam, resembling the SAT, taken in the student’s junior and/or sophomore year in high school. This is a practice SAT test.
www.collegeboard.org
Telephone number: 1-609-771-7070

PLAN
Practice ACT—Test, resembling the ACT, taken in the student’s sophomore year in high school.
www.act.org
Telephone number: 1-800-525-6926

TOEFL:
Test of English as a Foreign Language—This exam is given to international students who are applying to a college in the United States; measures the student’s language skills.
http://www.toefl.org
Telephone number: 1-609-771-7100

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ACADEMICS

Q: How many students are enrolled at Truman?

A: Approximately 5,600 undergraduates, 240 graduate students and 200 international students representing 46 different countries.

Q: What do you mean when you say that Truman is an accredited university?

A: Accreditation is the recognition of a college or university by any of the regional or national accrediting bodies, indicating that the institution as a whole has been judged to be meeting its objectives. Truman was accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools in 1914 and has maintained full accreditation for all its programs through the years since then.

Q: What majors do you offer?

A: Truman offers a variety of majors in the following schools and college:

  • School of Business
    (Accounting, Business Administration)
     
  • School of Health Sciences and Education

    (Athletic Training, Communication Disorders, Exercise Science, Health Science, Nursing)

  • College of Arts and Sciences

    (Art, Biology, Chemistry, Classics, Communication, Computer Science, Economics, English, French, German, History, Justice Systems, Linguistics, Mathematics, Music, Philosophy & Religion, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Romance Languages, Russian, Sociology/Anthropology, Spanish, Theater)

See the List of Majors and Minors.
Visit the Academic Programs website.

Q: Do you have pre-med?

A: Truman offers pre-medicine patterns in biology, chemistry, health and exercise science. Each of these patterns emphasizes a competitive classroom environment and the value of undergraduate research. Recent graduates have attended medical school at Baylor University, Dartmouth, Tufts University, Washington University and Georgetown University to name a few.

Q: What about pre-law?

A: Truman offers pre-law patterns in English, History and Political Science. While each of these majors provides excellent preparation for law school, you should not feel limited to choosing one of these disciplines. There is no standard pre-law curriculum. Law schools are more interested in the quality of the preparation and usually demand superior undergraduate work. Truman's liberal arts curriculum provides an excellent background for potential law students. Make the most of your undergraduate years, regardless of what major course of study you choose.

Q: Do you offer any other professional or pre-professional programs?

A: In addition to pre-law and pre-medicine patterns, Truman offers pre-professional programs in pre-dental, pre-education, pre-engineering, pre-medical technology, pre-occupational therapy, pre-optometry, pre-pharmacy, pre-physician’s assistant, pre-physical therapy, pre-special education and pre-veterinary medicine.

Q: What is your student teacher ratio?

A: Approximately 16:1, but you probably want to know how big the classes will be. The average class size is 24 students, with a combination of larger lecture classes and smaller (8-10 students) more specialized major classes.

Q: Do you have an honors program?

A: Yes. The General Honors program is available to every student. Instead of introductory courses in liberal arts and sciences disciplines, general honors students can select from a list of classes that explore in-depth topics or encourage a more sophisticated viewpoint.

Q: What is credit by examination?

A: A program through which many colleges grant course credit based on results of the advanced placement tests (AP), the CEEB College-level Examination Program (CLEP), Regents College Examinations (RCE), DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) or another examination developed by colleges.

Q: Do you accept AP, IB, or CLEP credit?

A: Truman offers an opportunity to test out of selected liberal arts courses through the Advanced Placement Program (AP), the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program, and the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and t. Any student receiving an AP examination score of 3 or above on selected exams will be granted the number of hours of Truman credit equivalent to the amount of Truman coursework covered by that AP exam. Truman accepts credit from other colleges for courses completed in high school if the courses are comparable to ones offered at Truman. Each course is evaluated individually when Truman receives an official transcript from the college or university granting credit.

See the Registrar's Equivalency Guides for AP, IB, and CLEP.

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MONEY MATTERS

Q: How do I apply for scholarships?

A: All automatic and competitive scholarships are awarded based on the information obtained from the application for admission. There is no separate scholarship application. For more information on scholarships, please visit the scholarship links from our Truman Cost, Scholarship & Financial Aid website.

Q: Are out-of-state tuition waivers available?

A: No; however, Truman awards tuition reductions on a competitive basis through participation in the Midwest Student Exchange Program. In addition, families who work in Missouri but live in another state may benefit from a dollar for dollar reduction in out-of-state fees based on the parents' income taxes paid in Missouri.

Q: How much will it cost to attend Truman?

A: For tuition, room and board it will be approximately $12,025 (resident) or $16,635 (out-of-state). For more information regarding costs, please click here.

Q: What types of financial aid are available?

A: The traditional types of financial aid include grants, loans and work-study. For more detailed information, visit our financial aid website.

Q: How do I apply for financial aid?

A: To see if you qualify for federal aid at Truman, follow these simple procedures:

  1. Apply for a PIN at http://www.pin.edu.gov/PINWebApp/pinindex.jsp.  The PIN serves as an electronic signature and provides access to your personal records in various U.S. Department of Education systems.  You and at least one parent should apply for a PIN.
  2. Complete each required section of the FAFSA, as soon after January 1 as possible. Many types of aid are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
  3. To identify Truman as one of the schools to receive your application results, list our Title IV code (002495) on the appropriate section of the FAFSA.
  4. Send the completed forms to the processor listed on the application. Do not send them to Truman.

After the University receives the results of your application, we will send you an award letter describing your financial aid package. Award amounts are subject to change, and some applications will be selected for verification. Copies of your federal income tax returns may be requested if your application is selected to be reviewed for verification.

Q: What is the FAFSA?

A: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the application required for students to be considered for federal student aid. Obtain a FAFSA from a high school or college counselor for the appropriate year (usually available in November). The FAFSA is processed free of charge, and is used by most state agencies and colleges. Visit the FAFSA website for more information.

Q: What does EFC mean?

A: EFC stands for Expected Family Contribution, the number used in determining your eligibility for federal student aid.

Q: What is a Federal Perkins Loan?

A: It is a loan funded by the federal government and awarded by the institution. The loans feature low interest rates and are repayable over an extended period of time.

Q: What is a Federal Pell grant?

A: It is financial assistance awarded by the federal government on the basis of need and designed to provide the foundation of an aid package for postsecondary education. The grant may be used toward tuition, room and board, books or other educational costs, and requires no repayment.

Q: What is Federal PLUS (Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students) Program?

A: This program provides low-interest federal loans to credit-approved parents of eligible undergraduate students. Repayment begins 60 days after loan funds are disbursed. Loans are available from participating banks, lending institutions and participating Direct Lending schools.

Q: What is the Federal Stafford Loan Program?

A: This loan program provides low interest federal loans to eligible students through banks and lending institutions. The federal government pays the interest for qualifying students while they are enrolled at least half time. Students who do not qualify for these interest subsidies are responsible for the interest while they are enrolled. Repayment begins after the student leaves school.

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STUDENT LIFE

Q: What kind of health care is available?

A: The Student Health Center, located in the McKinney Center, is staffed by a physician, nurse practitioner, registered nurse, registered laboratory technician and a medical secretary. The center is open Monday through Friday when classes are in session. Students are charged for laboratory tests, allergy injections and any medications or treatments provided by the Student Health Center. Students whose health care needs cannot be met by the Student Health Center may be referred to the health care provider of their choice, community clinics or the local emergency room.

Q: What kind of extracurricular activities does Truman offer?

A: Truman has over 200 student-run organizations that add a great deal to the college experience! Please visit the Center for Student Involvement site to find out more about them.

Q. What kind of jobs are available on-campus and in the community?

A: Many Kirksville businesses prefer Truman students as employees. With our reputation for higher standards and outstanding academics, employers realize that Truman students often make ideal employees. The University Career Center posts part-time job opportunities from around the community. Truman students have found employment at businesses such as the local coffee shop, Hastings (a local music, video and book store), Wal-mart, local law firms, KTVO (an ATSC television affiliate), hardware stores, veterinary offices and just about every restaurant in town. If you are interested in working for a specific business in town, show your interest by calling the manager or sending your resume and cover letter.

If working on-campus sounds more appealing to you, you’ll be happy to know that Truman offers many opportunities for employment to fulfill service requirements for scholarship renewal, for work-study or for institutional pay. (Note: Scholarship hour requirements do not begin until the sophomore year.) In order to qualify for work-study you must complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you qualify, you will be notified by mail. Students have found employment in almost every administrative office including: Admissions, Athletics, the Career Center, Information Technology Services, Publications, the Student Recreation Center and Public Relations. Most of the academic divisions will also have opportunities for work. To find out what on-campus jobs are available for scholarship hours or work-study contact the Financial Aid office at 660-785-4130. To find out what jobs are available for institutional pay, contact the Career Center at 660-785-4353, or visit the website. You can also ask the specific division or office you are interested in if any positions are available.

Q: What should I do if I am interested in playing a collegiate sport?

A: The first step is to fill out a prospective student-athlete questionnaire online and send to the appropriate coach. Or, you can let the Office of Admission know that you are interested and they can connect you with the appropriate coach.

Q: When do I sign up for Rush/Recruitment?

A: Sorority recruitment and Fraternity rush usually take place during the first few weeks of the school year. Sorority registration materials will be sent by mail, or you can sign up in the foyer of the Student Union Building during the first week of school. Fraternity Rush sign ups are in the foyer of the SUB as well.

Q: Can I bring a car?

A: Freshmen are allowed to bring cars to campus. They must purchase parking stickers and park in the designated lots. However, all campus buildings are within a 10-minute walk from any residence hall on campus. Also, many students use bikes for transportation on campus.

Q: Should I bring my bike?

A: Many Truman students opt to bring their bikes to school with them. As a freshman living on campus, you will not have a very long walk to any of your classes (10 minutes at most). On average, students make it from their residence halls to their classes in about 5-6 minutes. Many freshmen who do bring their bikes take them home in November, before the winter weather. Otherwise, they have to be stored in a dorm room or kept outside. If you are looking to get around town, a bike is a great option. You can ride your bike to the downtown square, just a few blocks from campus. Or, if you are the adventuresome type, you can take your bike to Thousand Hills State Park, where there are great trails for mountain biking.

Q: Is Truman’s campus safe?

A: Truman’s campus is a very safe place to live and learn. The Department of Public Safety patrols the campus around the clock and there are emergency telephones located throughout campus that will put you in immediate contact with a patrol officer. To learn more about public safety, please visit the Department of Public Safety web site.

Q: How do I get tickets for athletic events?

A: All athletic events are free with a student ID. For more information on athletics and ticket information, please visit the athletics web page.

Q: How do I find out about religious opportunities at Truman?

A: To find out more about the religious opportunities at Truman go to http://studentinvolvement.truman.edu or contact the Office of Admission at 1-800-892-7792 or 660-785-4114.

Q: Where can I exercise or lift weights?

A: You are in luck! You won't need to join a local fitness club because we have a recreation center just for Truman students and faculty. This $8 million facility includes: a three-court, wood floor, main gym suitable for basketball, volleyball or badminton; a small gym with a multipurpose floor that can accommodate roller hockey, indoor soccer, ultimate Frisbee, basketball or volleyball; a weight room; an aerobics room; an elevated three-lane jogging track; cardiovascular machines; locker rooms; and a lounge with a large screen television. Nearly $300,000 was spent on fitness equipment to outfit the weight room and cardiovascular training areas with state-of-the-art equipment. You will find a wide range of cardiovascular training equipment, including treadmills, steppers and climbers, elliptical trainers, upright bicycles, recumbent bicycles, cross trainers and rowers. There are over 25 pieces of free weight training equipment including benches, squat racks and plate loaded machines, plus numerous bars, weight plates and dumbbells. For more information, visit the Student Recreation Center website.

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Residence Life

Check out the Residence Life website at: http://reslife.truman.edu

Q: When should I turn in my housing contract?

A: Students should turn in their housing contract by August 1. Students receive the contract in the placement packet, so some start turning in their contracts as early as October. To enhance the opportunity of receiving your first choice in residence halls or roommate request, we suggest you turn in your contract as early as possible and recommend that it be submitted no later than February 1st. The longer you wait, the less likely you will be to get the building you request.

Q: I’m going to attend Truman State University and live on campus. What choices do I have for my living environment?

A: There are several options for students who will be living on campus, including residence halls and campus apartments. Residence halls range in size from 68 to almost 700 residents. Within that range are exciting opportunities for personal, social, educational, physical and emotional growth.

The residence halls include:
For more detailed information, visit Residence Life's Hall Sites & Information.

  • Blanton-Nason-Brewer Hall: This complex re-opened as one building for Fall 2008 as a fully renovated suite-style residential facility.  The north wing provides on-campus housing for sorority women, the east wing offers Deluxe rooms for both men and women, and the south wing provides traditional suite-style living.  Each room contains one bed per person that is bunkable and loftable, one closet per room (two in multiple rooms), one desk per person with shelves and drawers and one dresser per room. Rooms in BNB are carpeted and air-conditioned.
     
  • Centennial Hall: The largest residence hall on campus, Centennial Hall houses almost 700 men and women in suites on its five floors. Located directly across from the Student Union and next door to the Student Recreation Center, this hall features a large main lounge with recreation equipment, a computer lab, lounges, kitchenettes on designated floors, and laundry facilities.  Residents can dine in their own dining hall. Each room contains one bed per person that is bunkable and loftable, one closet per room (two in multiple rooms), one desk per person with shelves and drawers and one dresser per room. There is no carpeting in Centennial Hall rooms.
     
  • Dobson Hall: A co-ed community hall housing, Dobson Hall will re-open in fall 2009 as a fully renovated facility.  It is located directly east of Violette Hall, and features include a main common and recreation area, computer work stations, television lounges, a kitchenette, and laundry facilities. Dobson also is the home to a student produced radio station. Most Dobson residents dine next door in Ryle Hall. Each room is carpeted, contains one desk with shelves and drawers per person, bunkable and loftable beds, one wardrobe with shelves per person and one chest of drawers per room.
     
  • E.C. Grim Hall: This historic residence houses up to 68 men and women. It is adjacent to Pershing Building and Pershing Arena and near Violette Hall. E.C. Grim Hall contains a study area on the fourth floor, a computer lab, a television lounge, and laundry facilities. Residents dine in Centennial Hall and/or Ryle Hall, each about one block away. Each room contains one desk with shelves and drawers per person, bunkable and loftable beds, one closet per room and one chest of drawers per room. Rooms in Grim hall are not carpeted.
     
  • Missouri Hall: Missouri Hall re-opened in fall 2007 as a fully renovated residential facility.  The building houses approximately 500 men and women with single-gender community bathrooms.  Common lounge areas cater to each community and will connect the different wings. Residents can dine in their own dining hall. The building features air conditioning, a multipurpose room, and a private dining room, in addition to kitchenettes, laundry rooms, and study rooms on each floor. Missouri is also the home to the Romance Languages House and the Leadership Themed House.
     
  • Ryle Hall: Ryle provides nearly 600 men and women with suite-style living arrangements located near Stokes Stadium and Violette Hall. This hall features a computer lab, a large main lounge, laundry facilities, floor lounges, and kitchenettes. Ryle residents can dine in their own dining hall. Each room contains bunkable and loftable beds, one closet per room (two in multiple rooms), one desk per person with shelves and drawers and one dresser per room. There is no carpeting in Ryle Hall rooms.
     
  • West Campus Suites: West Campus Suites is Truman's newest residential facility.  Opened in August 2006, WCS houses 416 men and women in suite-style rooms, which include two 2-person bedrooms, a bathroom, and a living area.  West Campus Suites is located behind Centennial Hall on Normal Street.  The building features air conditioning, an in-hall convenience store, computer workstations, laundry and kitchenettes on every floor, and a well equipped multi-purpose room. 

The University has three furnished campus apartment complexes. Since students returning to Truman’s residence halls or campus apartments are placed based on seniority, followed by a first-come, first-serve basis, very few freshmen are placed in the campus apartments.

  • Fair Apartments: This apartment complex is located next to Ryle Hall, and houses up to 58 men and women. Residents are on the full board plan and dine in Ryle Hall, since no kitchens are available in Fair Apartments. Each apartment contains a set of bunkable beds and one non-bunkable bed. There are also small sofas in each apartment. A study area with desktop and shelves is part of each room in Fair. There is one bathroom as well as carpeting throughout each apartment.
     
  • Randolph Apartments: Located near Dobson Hall, these apartments house 33 students in three- or four-person apartments. Each apartment contains one bathroom, a kitchen, refrigerator, small kitchen table, small sofa/couch, bunkable beds, carpeting, two large desks and one closet in each bedroom. Randolph residents may bring microwaves. Residents in Randoph are not placed on a meal plan, but may purchase one from the cashier’s office, if desired. All apartments are carpeted.
     
  • Campbell Apartments: Across from Stokes Stadium and adjacent to the tennis courts, Campbell Apartments have been recently renovated. This is the only residential facility on campus that houses married students. Up to 129 men and women live in this complex in either two- or three-person apartments. Each apartment features air conditioning, a kitchen, a small table with chairs, bunked beds (most rooms), a closet, chest of drawers, full-size refrigerator, bathroom, utility closet, small storage closet and one small sofa. Residents may bring their own microwaves. Residents in Campbell are not placed on a meal plan, but may purchase one from the cashier’s office, if desired.

Q: How big are the rooms in the residence halls?

A: The room sizes and shapes vary between each residence hall because of the unique design of each building. The Residence Life Central Office does not have exact room or closet measurements for each specific room. All residence halls and apartments do have mattresses measuring 36" x 76". The approximate measurements for the residence hall rooms are listed on the table below; however, you should personally measure your room when you arrive before purchasing carpet and draperies.

Residence Hall Name Approximate Measurements
Blanton Hall
Double Room 12’ 6 x 13’
4-person Room 7’ 6" x 17’ x 17’ x 24’
Window Size 6’ 3"w x 5’h
 
Brewer Hall
Double Room 14’ x 11’ 8"
Window Size 6’ 3"w x 5’h
 
Centennial Hall
Double Room 14’ x 12’
3-Person Room 12’ 4" x 19’ 6"
4-Person Room 4’ 8" x 20’ 10" x 16’ x 8’ 6" x 25’ 10"
Window Size 6’ 3"w x 5’h
 
Dobson Hall
Double Room 14’ 6" x 11’ 10"
4-Person Room Average 14’ 6" x 23’ 6"
Window Sizes 6’ 5"w x 5’ 10"h & 3’ 3"w x 5’ 1/2" h (multiple rooms)
6’ 5"w x 5’ 10"h (double rooms)
 
E.C. Grim Hall
Double Room (Shared Bath) 14’ 6" x 11’ 8"
Double Room (Private Bath) 12’ 10" x 11’ 10"
Window Sizes Vary tremendously in size
 
Missouri Hall
Double Room 14’ 6" x 11’ 8"
3-Person Room 14’ 6" x 16’ 10"
Window Size 6’ 5"w x 5’ 6"h
 
Nason Hall
4-Person Room Average 17’ 2" x 15’
Window Sizes 6’ 3"w x 5’h & 3’ 7"w x 5"h
 
Ryle Hall
Double Room 12’ 4" x 14’
3-Person Room 12’ x 14’
4-Person Room Average 25’ 8" x 25’ 8" x 25’ 8"
Window Size 6’3"w x 5’h
   
West Campus Suites
Double Bedroom 16' x 11' 7"
Living Room 13' 5" x 11' 7"

Q: While attending Truman State University, how do I use my meal plan?

A: Students living on campus, with the exception of students living in Campbell and Randolph Apartments, choose a meal plan with their housing agreement. The Block Meal Plan enables you maximum flexibility. You may eat as often as you would like because you have a set number of meals per semester.

Available Options
210 meals plus $50.00 Dining Dollars
165 meals plus $100.00 Dining Dollars
140 meals plus $150.00 Dining Dollars
20 meals per week (residence halls only)

Dining Dollars can be used in any residence hall or Main Street to purchase additional meals or food items. There are a variety of options for how you can use your meal plan. If you live in Centennial, Missouri or Ryle Halls, your residence hall has its own cafeteria. While you can eat at any cafeteria on campus, these may be the most convenient locations. If you live in Dobson, Blanton, Nason, Brewer or E.C. Grim Halls, or in Fair or Randolph Apartments, you can eat in any cafeteria. Typically students living in these locations will dine at the cafeteria closest to their residence hall.

In addition to the cafeterias, there are food service options available at the Student Union. Main Street offers a salad bar, Blimpies subs, Godfather’s pizza, Jazzman's Cafe, Freshens Ice Cream and Smoothie Parlor, prepared meal options, and the Sky Ranch Grill. Main Street can be used by students holding a meal plan by using a transfer option of $3.25 per meal block.

Q: Do all first-year students have to live on campus?

A: All single first-year students attending Truman under 21 years of age are required to live in campus housing, unless they are living with an immediate family member (parent, grandparent, or legal guardian) in the Kirksville area or commuting from home. Transfer students and married students are not required to live in the residence halls. If you are a first-year student and fall into one of these exempt categories, please fill out and submit this waiver form (.pdf) to the Residence Life Office.

Q: If I need assistance within my residence hall, whom do I contact?

A: Residence Life hires professional staff members—Hall Directors and Community Coordinators—who are trained to manage the physical environment and to assist all residents in a positive living experience. In addition to the professional hall staff, Student Advisors work with residents in each hall by planning personal growth and educational programs, becoming mentors and friends, and making residents aware of and enforcing the University’s policies. Internal hall organizations, including hall government, Residence Hall Association and others, encourage the involvement of residents to work with the Residence Life central office and professional hall staff to identify areas for improvement and to provide input. Residents, student advisors, hall governments and the Hall Directors form a community with a common purpose and goals.

In addition to the professional hall staff, academic advisors from the Residential College Program have been trained to work very closely with freshmen, transfer students and undeclared upperclassmen to provide academic services and co-curricular programming for residents within the residence halls. These services and programs are designed specifically to help students take learning beyond the classroom.

Q: What address do I give to my family and friends if I am living in one of the Residence Halls?

A: Each residence hall has its own street address, and your mail should be addressed to you in the following manner:

Your Name
Hall Street Address*
Hall Name, Room #
Kirksville, MO 63501

*See below for the appropriate street address

Blanton Hall 1009 S. Mulanix St.
Nason Hall 1009 S. Mulanix St.
Brewer Hall 1009 S. Mulanix St.
Missouri Hall 809 S. Mulanix St.
Dobson Hall 1111 S. Mulanix St.
Ryle Hall 1215 S. Mulanix St.
E.C. Grim Hall 208 E. Patterson St.
Centennial Hall 1000 S. Franklin St.
Randolph Apartments 516 E. Randloph St.
Fair Apartments 300 E. Patterson St.
Campbell Apartments 1601 S. Florence St.
West Campus Suites 215 W. Normal St.

Q: What may I bring when I move to campus?

A: You will be able to talk to, write to or e-mail your roommate before you move to campus. Some students enjoy coordinating the colors or patterns of their room, or sharing larger items such as bookshelves, rugs or extra furniture. Space is limited, so we encourage you to communicate with your future roommate about what you would like to share to avoid duplicating non-personal items.

Each residence hall has rooms furnished with beds, mattresses, and window blinds. Most rooms have a desk area with drawer space for each resident. Wastebaskets and shower curtains are not provided in any of the living spaces.

Essential items you’ll need include:

  • mattress pad
  • bed linens (rooms contain standard twin beds), pillow, blankets and bedspread
  • towels and washcloths
  • alarm clock or clock radio
  • bathrobe  
  • toiletries (shampoo, soap, shaving supplies, hand lotion, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.) and a small bucket for storing them
  • hair dryer
  • cleaning products (dust cloth, general purpose cleaner, window cleaner, air freshener, etc.)
  • toilet paper (except for students placed in Missouri or Dobson Halls)
  • UL extension cords not to exceed 6’ in length
  • non-halogen desk light, floor or bedside lamp for reading and studying

For your wardrobe:

  • clothes hangers
  • laundry basket
  • storage boxes ("under the bed" boxes work best)
  • ironing board and iron

For mishaps, emergencies, and general "fix-its":

  • first-aid kit
  • sewing kit
  • flashlight
  • small tool kit (screw driver, hammer, pliers, etc.)

For getting around campus:

  • bicycle
  • in-line skates
  • umbrella
  • backpack
  • good walking shoes
  • boots for wet or snowy weather
  • light jacket and a warm coat

For study breaks and general relaxing:

  • radio, stereo, portable CD/tape player, or iPod/MP3/media player
  • small television
  • movies, video games, sports equipment (balls, sports shoes, bat, etc.)

For making the most of your study time:

  • computer (computer stations are available in the residence halls if you do not have your own)
  • dictionary and thesaurus
  • calculator
  • pens, pencils, pencil sharpener, and hi-lighters
  • stapler
  • paper and notebooks
  • tape
  • ruler
  • organizer

To make your new home feel more like home:

  • posters
  • photos of family and friends
  • indoor plants
  • fan
  • utensils for snacks
  • favorite coffee or tea mug

Q: Can I bring my own furniture?

A: Yes and no. The residence hall room is already provided with one or more bed/mattress, desks, chest of drawers, wardrobe or closet and window blinds. You may bring other furniture to make your room more comfortable, such as rugs, small couch, chair, non-halogen lamps, etc. Remember that space is limited, and that any furniture that is in your room when you arrive must stay in your room. Storing residence hall furniture outside of its original room is absolutely prohibited.

Q: Do we have cable access in our dorm rooms?

A: Each residence hall comes equipped with cable access. This means you do not have to subscribe, and you can enjoy many channels from the comfort of your own room. We provide the cable, you provide the television.

Q: I have so many things I want to bring. Can I store any of my extra belongings on campus?

A: Additional storage space is not available. Anything you bring must stay in your room with you.

Q: May I decorate my room?

A: This is your home away from home, so decorating and personalizing your room is encouraged. You may hang posters and pictures from the wall; however, this must be done with non-damaging materials or removable hangers. Damage done to walls, furniture, ceilings, doors, windows or anything else that was originally in the room is charged to the residents. Students are also not allowed to paint their rooms.

Also, since Truman State University is a dry campus, we do not allow any alcoholic beverage containers (empty or full) in the residence hall rooms. So even though that wine bottle or beer can may hold sentimental value to you, please leave it at home. We do not allow posters or signs that advertise or promote the use of alcohol or drugs within any area of your rooms that the public can see (windows, doors, or walls within public view). Also, since most of your room will be visible to the public, you are encouraged to avoid posting materials that are in regard to race, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age or physical disability that may be considered offensive to fellow residents or guests.

Q: What appliances are available for residents?

A: Microfridge units, which include a small microwave and refrigerator, are available for students to rent for the academic year. These rentals can be done through the Residence Life Central Office. Common microwaves and kitchenettes are available to residents in most halls. Each residence hall has some additional items available to check out from the hall desk, including vacuum sweeper, iron and pots and pans.

Q: Is Truman State University a dry campus?

A: Truman State University is a dry campus, which prohibits public intoxication and the possession, use and distribution of alcoholic beverages on University premises, regardless of age. Residence halls and all campus apartment complexes are located on University premises; therefore, any alcoholic beverage or container located in any residence hall room is considered to be in violation of the University Student Code of Conduct. Informal surveys of residents indicated that the vast majority of the alcohol from these empty beverage containers was consumed within the residence hall room. Therefore in Fall 2000, the University also began prohibiting the possession or display of empty alcoholic beverage containers within the residence halls.

Any student violating the Student Code of Conduct will be referred to a hearing with the University’s Judicial Officer and held to sanctions deemed appropriate from that hearing.

Violations of this policy include the following:

  • Public intoxication on University premises;
  • Consumption, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages on University premises;
  • Possession of empty alcoholic beverage containers; and
  • Displaying empty containers which once held alcoholic beverages in the residence hall rooms.

Q: What is the weather like in Kirksville, Missouri?

A: One of the great things about beautiful Northeast Missouri is that we get to enjoy all four seasons of the year. Average temperatures during the year can range from 75° in July to 25° in January, with rain, snow, hot sun and cool evenings. Some of the residence halls are not air-conditioned, so you will need a fan in the warmer temperatures. Air conditioners in the residence hall rooms are not allowed unless you have a doctor’s note prescribing the need for an air conditioner, and you have paid an energy use fee of $100.00. Central lounges, dining halls and academic buildings are all air-conditioned. You will need a variety of clothes to be comfortable in all seasons and weather conditions throughout the academic year. Your wardrobe may range from shorts, tank tops and sandals, to long pants, warm sweaters and snow boots, but you may want to bring out-of-season clothing home during break times to save valuable storage space.

Q: What appliances may I bring?

A: Use of appliances for food preparation in your room is not permitted due to health, safety and cleanliness considerations. Residents may use approved appliances, stereos, lights and other electrical devices as listed on the chart below. Because of the fire hazard they represent, all two-prong extension cords, all plug adapters and all halogen lamps are prohibited. Residents using extension cords are required to use grounded three-wire extension cords and/or surge protectors. Residents must also report all electrical problems experienced in their rooms (e.g., tripped circuit breakers) to the Student Advisor or the Hall Office.

Since kitchenettes are available to most residents on campus, you are encouraged to not cook in your room. High heat or open coil appliances are not permitted at any time. When cooking, do not leave appliances unattended, and always use extreme care to not let the hot surface come into contact with anything around it.

Residents are also encouraged to use only appliances that are in good repair and functioning safely. Certain appliances are not permitted.

 

 Approved Electrical Appliances 
 Allowed Only if UL Approved &
 in Good Condition
Not Allowed*
 Alarm Clock/Clock Air Conditioner** (See chart below) 
 Aquarium with Fish Blender 
       (up to 30 gallon maximum) Cappuccino Maker 
 Automatic Iced Tea Maker  Convection Oven
 Bread Machine  Deep Fat Fryer
 Can Opener Electric Crepe/Sandwich Maker 
 CD Burner Electric Fry Pan 
 Coffee Maker Electric Grill 
 Computer Electric Hamburger Cooker 
 Crock-pot/Slow Cooker Electric Mixer 
 Curling Iron or Hot Rolling Curlers Electric Waffle Iron 
 Electric Blanket Electric Wok 
 Fan Fondue Pot 
 Food Hydrator Food Processor 
 Game Machines Grill or Grill Convertible 
 Hair Dryer Halogen Lamps 
 Heating Pad Holiday Lights (Outdoor)  
 Hot Air Popcorn Popper Hot Oil Popcorn Popper 
 Indoor Holiday Lights Hot Pot or Hot Plate 
 Iron with Automatic Shut-Off Indoor Grill or Broiler 
 Lava lamps Microwave*** (See chart below) 
 Non-halogen Lamps Outdoor Grill (charcoal or propane) 
 Radio Space Heater 
 Razor Sun Lamp 
 Small Refrigerator Toaster/Toaster Oven 
       (2’ x 3’ x 2’) Warming Tray 
 Stereo   
 Television Color indicates that appliance is allowed in Campbell and Randolph complexes only.
 VCR/DVD Player
 

 * If your item is not listed, please consult with your Hall Director or the  Residence Life Central Office (660-785-4227).


 

Allowed Only With Permission from Residence Life

Special Circumstances
Needed for Approval

Additional Usage Fee Required

Air Conditioner**
(6,000 BTUs max.)   
Physician’s Certification validating the medical necessity. $100 energy use fee due by Aug. 1
($40 late fee will apply after that date.) 
Microwave*** Only permitted when rented as part of a Microfridge unit. $150 rental fee for the Micro-fridge unit for the academic year.

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