The Office of Residence Life supports the mission of the University through creating living–learning environments that meet the developmental needs of the students and embrace the religious and intellectual traditions of Catholicism.
Catholic values shape our housing philosophy, programs, and policies that non–Catholic Christians and non– Christians alike can share: humility, respect for life, charity, honesty, compassion, justice, knowledge, freedom of inquiry, responsibility, family, friendship and community. These values prepare our student–residents not only to become good citizens but, more importantly, to become responsible stewards of all creation.
Nothing more clearly demonstrates the University’s commitment to the safety, security, comfort and well–being of its student–residents than the quality and quantity of people selected to oversee the daily operation of its Residence Life program. Every member of the Residence Life staff, from the full–time administrators to the paraprofessional student– staff (Resident Assistants, Office and Desk Workers, and other Student Leaders) has been carefully selected and trained to meet the needs of the student–resident population. The staff diligently works to get to know every resident on a personal basis and build a community living environment where everyone feels welcomed and valued.
Professional and paraprofessional staff reside on campus and are available 24/7 to assist residents when classes are in session. Many other full–time professionals, including a licensed psychologist, professional counselors, and university police officers, are available on–call to assist our Residence Life staff.
Facilities
The University maintains multiple housing options for students, which are conveniently located within a short walking distance of our academic and campus life malls. Students interested in taking advantage of living on campus may apply for housing in Guinan Residence Hall or in one of our upper–class student apartments or townhomes. On–campus residents must purchase one of the residential meal plan offered by the University.
Guinan Residence Hall
Guinan Hall offers fully furnished double and triple occupancy rooms with private bathrooms, individually controlled thermostats, and microwave/refrigerator combination units. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we are offering single and double rooms. Triple rooms will not be offered during the pandemic. All rooms are equipped with wireless internet access and cable. Rooms are designed around beautifully manicured gardens and courtyards, and every room opens onto a balcony or patio. Residents have access to multiple community spaces and services: main lobby with gaming areas, community kitchen, study lounges, computer lounge, meditation room, conference room, media room, and laundry room with treadmills. The safety and security of our residents are our highest priority. Trained paraprofessional personnel monitor the lobby twenty–four hours a day, seven days a week, when classes are in session.
Student Apartments and Townhomes
Student apartments and townhomes are located on the south side of campus and available for upper–class and non– traditional students. Residents can choose from multiple floor plans that include full–service kitchens with a dishwasher, stove and refrigerator. All apartments are furnished, including a dining room table and couch, and are equipped with wireless internet access. A high level of security measures is provided through video monitoring and safety rounds conducted by our Resident Assistants and University police.
Services and Amenities
Residents of campus housing have the advantage of participating in activities designed specifically for them that encourage growth and autonomy. Each week our Residence Life Staff create opportunities for residents to become involved in our community through participation in social, spiritual, human awareness, physical and mental health, and academic programming. In addition, numerous leadership–development opportunities are available for our student–residents. Nothing more clearly demonstrates the University’s commitment to the safety, security, comfort and well–being of its student– residents than the quality and quantity of people selected to oversee the daily operation of its Residence Life program. The staff diligently works to get to know every resident on a personal basis and build a community living environment where everyone feels welcomed and valued. Professional and paraprofessional staff reside on campus and are available 24/7 to assist residents when classes are in session. Many other full–time professionals, including a licensed psychologist, professional counselors, and university police officers, are available on–call to assist our Residence Life staff.
Eligibility
Students become eligible for campus housing once they receive formal notice of admission to the University and pay the enrollment deposit. Resident students must be enrolled full–time and must be pursuing a degree at UST. According to Texas State Law, all residents must be vaccinated for Meningitis at least 10 days prior to moving into the residence halls. Housing Application forms are available online on the Residence Life Webpage. When the Office of Residence Life receives a completed Housing Application and Immunization Records, the student will be sent a Housing Contract. Students must complete this contract and return it to the University with a security deposit. This deposit covers damages that may occur during the contract term, and it serves as a room reservation fee. Upon request, the deposit may be returned to the student at the end of the contract term if the terms and conditions of the housing contract have been fully met.
Assignment
The University seeks to maintain a balance in the number of spaces allocated for occupancy by first–year traditional and upper–class students. Assignment for first–year traditional students is on a first–come, first–served basis with preference given to those with the earliest contract and deposit–receipt date. Students who do not receive a housing assignment may request to have their names placed on the Residence Life Waiting List. The University maintains full and final authority to determine assignment from the Housing Interest List. Among the criteria considered for placement are classification, permanent address, access to transportation, special needs, and/or financial aid/scholarship status
Information
Residence Life housing information is available through the Office of Residence Life, 713–525–3836, residencelife@stthom.edu.