Residence Hall Theme Descriptions

Mesa Court Themes

Mesa Court is comprised of 29 halls: 7 general interest halls and 22 theme halls. All the halls in Mesa Court are co-ed and have single-gender suites.

• Academic Excellence Halls (includes Campuswide Honors Hall) - Arroyo, Isla, Nubes, Loma and Barranca
• These halls are committed to providing students with an atmosphere conducive to study and academic excellence. In addition to programming around academics, the students in these halls agree to special community standards in order to support the academic efforts of fellow residents. Loma and Arroyo Halls are reserved for students in the Campuswide Honors Program. Special admission requirements apply to these residents.
• Campus Connection Halls - Brisa, Puente
• These halls are designed to educate residents about campus resources, services and opportunities as well provide a community of support while residents get involved and “find their niche” in college. These halls allow residents to learn about campus resources like career services, student activities, academic support services, study abroad opportunities, student organizations and campus recreation through formal presentations and informal interactions. Residents will have the opportunity to participate in classes that help them understand university resources, services and opportunities while also learning about issues related to college student transition and personal development. There is a discussion group that meets in addition to the weekly class meetings for the Spring Class. Each of these three classes receives between 2 - 4 graded units, depending on the course requirements, and is taught in Mesa Court.
• "Community in a Diverse Society" Class Experience - Sierra
• (Includes a required 4-unit class)  A multicultural hall with over 35 years of tradition, Sierra has provided opportunities for student growth since 1971. All residents are required to participate in a progressive 4-credit in-hall class that provides a unique opportunity that challenges residents to think beyond their current boundaries. Residents will explore a variety of issues in diversity, clarify their values and ethics, and further their understanding and their ability to make an impact in their community.
• Community Service  & Social Justice Hall - Cumbre
• This hall brings together students who have a commitment to community service, civic engagement and social justice. Residents will engage in activities that address community needs within the University and in the surrounding communities. In addition, students will be encouraged to engage in dialogues about social issues, and will explore them through hall programming events, faculty interaction, and community involvement. Students will be exposed to the UCI Center for Service in Action and will be able utilize this resource to develop their own service projects and initiatives. (Optional 1.3 unit class)

• Diversity: Advocacy and Activism Hall - Jardin

• Cultural diversity, social events, and appreciation of differences are highlighted in this hall through a variety of programmatic and educational efforts. This hall (with Aldea) offers opportunities for students to explore such issues as socioeconomic status, LGBT issues, multicultural vs. multiethnic communities, and encourages students to identify the opportunities & challenges that come from being a citizen of a diverse global community. Jardin’s specific focus is Advocacy and Activism. Students and staff will explore various ways to become involved in campus and community issues and will identify the best methods towards a system of positive progression in society.
• Diversity: Global Issues Hall - Aldea

• Cultural diversity, social events, and appreciation of differences are highlighted in this hall through a variety of programmatic and educational efforts. This hall (with Jardin) offers opportunities for students to explore such issues as socioeconomic status, LGBT issues, multicultural vs. multiethnic communities, and encourages students to identify the opportunities & challenges that come from being a citizen of a diverse global community. Aldea’s specific focus is Global Issues. Students and staff will explore important international issues and use particular events and processes to have a better understanding of the world around them.

• Emerging Leaders Hall - Ciudad

• These halls are designed to enhance leadership skills and potential. Students who live in these halls will have the opportunity to learn about her/himself as an emerging leader at UCI and beyond. Throughout the year students will be exposed to a variety of individual and group leadership skills. Topics may include leadership style assessment, communication, intercultural awareness, diversity, volunteerism, leaders in action, values and ethics, and the impact of leadership in a global society. Students may be connected to leadership classes offered at UCI like the Passport to Leadership Program and in Mesa Court, including the Mesa Court Leadership Institute. Residents are encouraged to share their campus involvement and play an integral role in developing leadership within the halls.
• First Year Excellence Program (FYEP) Hall and Academic Class - Ondas and Palo
• (Undecided/Undeclared majors only; apply with an essay) 
  The First Year Excellence Program is designed to support first-year students making the transition to University life, and then help them define their educational and career goals. The FYEP is open to students who (a) do not plan to declare a major until the end of their first year; (b) have a minimum high school GPA of 3.0, and (c) have demonstrated leadership abilities. FYEP participants are required to take a two-unit course fall quarter, “A Freshman Experience,” and a two-unit course winter quarter, “Overview of Majors,” which may be offered in the hall living room.
• Interest in Engineering and Technology Hall - Cascada
• This innovative hall explores the impact of technology on our daily lives. Open to students of all majors, residents will explore how science, technology and engineering empower many fields of study. Students can engage in dialogues related to scientific breakthroughs as well as the many ethical challenges that these discoveries present. This includes concerns in biotechnology and genetic research, the impact of technology on communication and society, and the development of new technologies that might deplete natural resources. Students will also have the opportunity to engage in discussion about how engineering and technology can be utilized to provide solutions for local and global issues.
• Interest in Global Sustainability - Vista
• This hall brings together students who have an interest in environmental issues, sustainability, and eco-friendly living. Residents of this community will explore the impact of personal decision-making on the environment and its natural resources through hall programming events, faculty interaction and community involvement. Residents are encouraged to explore ways to practice and promote conservation and “green” living. Residents will also have opportunities to engage in dialogues about issues such as global environmental change, policy and management of natural resources, sustainable rural and urban environments, and environmental leadership. Residents will also be encouraged to learn more about campus and community organizations and efforts related to topics of sustainability, including Green Campus, Students for Sustainability, Anteaters for Recycling and Conservation, and CALPIRG.
• Interest in Music Hall - Otero

• This hall community is developed for students from diverse academic backgrounds and majors who share an interest in music. Residents in this hall need not major in a musical field; non-music majors are encouraged. Residents will be encouraged to explore the diverse musical presentations and performance opportunities on campus and in the surrounding community and further their own musical interests. We are committed to providing students with an environment in which they can explore their shared passion for music as a community while supporting their individual success in their academic disciplines. Otero is equipped with a piano and a mirrored practice space and is in close proximity to the Claire Trevor School of the Arts.

• Interest in the Performing Arts Hall - Prado
• (Open to all majors)  This hall is designed for students from a wide variety of majors who share an interest in the arts. Residents in this hall need not major in an artistic field; all majors are welcome. Prado focuses on students with an interest in the performing arts. Because of the proximity of this hall to the Claire Trevor School of the Arts, students can explore the rich offerings of the graduate and professional arts community. We are committed to providing students with an environment in which they can explore their shared passion for the arts as a community while supporting their individual success in their academic disciplines. Prado is equipped with a piano and mirrored dance space.

• Interest in Visual Arts Hall - Cielo

• Students from any academic background are invited to join this hall community geared towards the visual arts. Residents will be encouraged to explore different visual media including: photography, drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, and graphic arts. Additionally, residents will be supported in exploring the use of computer technology in the process of creating new art forms. As with the other halls with an interest in the arts, Cielo is in close proximity to the Claire Trevor School of the Arts.
• Mass Media and Communication Hall - Viento

• Students are provided opportunities to explore forms of broadcast media, such as radio and television, forms of print media, and the fields of video and film production through hall programming events, faculty interaction and community dialogues about its usage and influence in society. In addition, students will be encouraged to explore leadership and career opportunities in the world of broadcasting and communication. Living in this community will introduce residents to such campus-wide leadership/broadcasting opportunities, as the KUCI-FM campus radio station, the New University student newspaper, 24-Hour Mad Film Dash, and other UCI programs. 

• Wellness Hall - Bahia & Lago
• Residents in these halls are encouraged to learn more about an array of wellness topics and support a community that allows for growth of personal wellness. In order to facilitate and support the values and goals of the residents in these communities, programs are offered which enhance students’ understanding of various wellness issues, including nutrition, physical fitness, mental health, financial balance, and spiritual wellbeing. Residents in these halls are given priority when registering for wellness courses offered in the hall and complex.
• General Interest Halls - Camino, Cuesta, Estrella, Laguna, Lluvia, Niebla, Selva

• General Interest Halls provide growth opportunities to help residents define their educational goals through outreach opportunities and programs which serve to support and reinforce First Year Initiatives and the Mesa Court Housing values of Academic Excellence, Diversity, Leadership, and Wellness. The environment in these halls addresses developmental issues including, but not limited to, homesickness, interpersonal relationships, time and stress management, getting involved, managing conflict, and self-expression in order to assist students in building a solid foundation for collegiate success.

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Middle Earth Themes

Middle Earth's halls (24) are divided into six cluster theme areas of four halls each. There is an academic class and thematic programming associated with each cluster. Students in the cluster have priority for signing up for the classes, however, all programs are open to Middle Earth residents. While participation in the class and in theme programs is optional, we strongly encourage residents to get involved and make the most of the living and learning experience. Cluster programs and classes provide opportunities to assist students with the transition to residence hall life, as well as educate on issues that will enhance students' academic and personal success. Middle Earth also offers traditional social and educational programming such as talent shows, athletic tournaments, dances, and opportunities to interact with faculty members outside of the classroom.

• Changing the Future Through Education - Misty Mountain
• Use the power of education to make a difference! Residents will collaborate with faculty, staff, and others, whose research and program initiatives are making significant impacts on schooling, educational access, and education policy in the US and worldwide.  Students will develop their teamwork, leadership, and public speaking skills through a variety of on- and off-campus activities. Learn how your interest in education can be applied to many different careers. Students of all majors are encouraged to apply.  Sponsored by the UCI Center for Educational Partnerships and UCI Department of Education.
  
• Exploring Study Abroad - Lorien
• Living in this community, students will discover the world beyond the United States. Residents will have contact with students, faculty, and staff who are living examples of how study abroad can expand one’s knowledge and appreciation of other nations, peoples, and cultures. As a result of living abroad, students become better prepared to enter today’s workforce and become more informed private citizens. Students in this community will discover the importance of going abroad, learn how to prepare for the experience, and learn how to do it while graduating on time. A fellow Anteater studying abroad says: “This is one of those rare milestones that separate the first half of your life...from everything that follows.” For more information on study abroad options, check out the Center for International Education at www.cie.uci.edu
  
• The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) - Hobbiton
• Living in this community will introduce you to the many research and creative opportunities available to you at UCI under the guidance of world-renowned faculty. Conducting a research or creative project has become an integral component of your Undergraduate education at UCI. There are many benefits to participating in the research process that will prepare you for a successful career. You will also be introduced to off-campus opportunities with outside agencies including national laboratories, industrial partners, and other universities. Join this fun environment, discover your interests and passions, and interact closely with faculty, student researchers, and members of the UROP Team. For more information about UROP, please visit: www.urop.uci.edu
  
  
• Intellectual Competence (includes Campuswide Honors Hall) - The Shire, Shadowfax, Gondolin, & Evenstar
  (single-gender and coed suites)
• This cluster focuses on academic success and intellectual skill development. Programs will highlight first year students’ academic transition issues, study and test taking skills, and navigating campus resources.
• Interpersonal Relationships - Lorien, Aldor, Balin, & Valimar
  (single-gender and coed suites)
• This cluster focuses on issues that impact our relationships with friends, family and significant others. Programs will highlight interpersonal skills, gender issues, diversity, dating issues, and factors that influence our relationships.
• Academic & Career Options - Hobbiton, Calmindon, Elrond, & Quenya
  (single-gender and coed suites)
• This cluster focuses on issues related to career development and academic interests. Programs will encourage students to explore various majors, personal interests, job seeking strategies, and access to resources that support development of academic interests.
• Involvement in Civic & Campus Life - Misty Mountain, Crickhollow, Whispering Wood & Snowbourn
  (single-gender and coed suites)
• This cluster focuses on promoting leadership skills through involvement in civic and campus activities. Programs will highlight conflict mediation, communication skills, ethical behavior, how to navigate the university environment and practice skills for living in a community.
• Health & Safety Strategies - Mirkwood, Rohan, Woodhall, & Oakenshield
  (single-gender and coed suites)
• This cluster focuses on issues promoting health and safety among students. Programs will address nutrition, fitness, personal and academic balance, stress management, personal and sexual health and college transition.
• Personal Identity & Philosophy - Isengard, Grey Havens, Rivendell & Harrowdale
  (single-gender and coed suites)
• This cluster focuses on issues affecting individual identity development and how one's personal values shape decision making. Programs explore issues of diversity, self-awareness, personal ethics, personal goals, value clarification, and sexuality.

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