The GOLD Residential Experience at Oakland University

Our overarching goal: To empower every student living on campus to develop holistic skills and competencies for self-management and success.

The GOLD Residential Experience is designed to support students’ growth through four key learning goals: Career Readiness, Academic Success, Belonging, and Wellness. These goals form the foundation for a holistic college experience, equipping students with the skills and knowledge they need for success.

These actionable goals break down our priority into specific areas of growth:

1. Career Readiness
   Prepare for your future with a clear career path.
   • Explore careers aligned with your skills and values.
   • Gain hands-on experience and build a professional network.
   • Learn essential skills like resume writing, interviewing, and salary negotiation.
     
     From your first year to graduation, we provide the resources and support to help you achieve your professional aspirations.
2. Academic Success
   Achieve your goals with personalized academic strategies.
   • Set clear academic objectives aligned with your aspirations.
   • Utilize university resources like tutoring and advising.
   • Master time management to balance academics and personal commitments.
     
     Our approach empowers students to excel academically throughout their college journey.
3. Belonging
   Find your place and make an impact.
   • Discover your role within our community.
   • Engage in initiatives that promote empathy, diversity, and inclusion.
   • Contribute to the well-being of your campus and broader communities.
     
     We cultivate a sense of belonging that fosters meaningful connections and shared growth.
4. Wellness
   Create a balanced and fulfilling life.
   • Develop a personalized wellness plan using the Eight Dimensions of Wellness.
   • Participate in events and programs to enhance your understanding of wellness.
   • Adopt habits that support emotional, physical, and social well-being.
     
     Our focus on wellness ensures students thrive in all areas of life.

The GOLD Residential Experience is built upon clearly defined Resident Learning Outcomes that help students achieve personal, academic, and professional success. These outcomes focus on four key areas:

1. Career Readiness
   Empowering residents to pursue meaningful careers.
   • Define personal career goals aligned with values and skills.
   • Build essential skills in resume writing, interviewing, and networking.
   • Explore post-graduation opportunities, including salary negotiation and graduate school.
2. Academic Success
   Fostering a foundation for lifelong learning.
   • Set and achieve academic goals tailored to personal interests and career aspirations.
   • Leverage university resources like tutoring and advising to strengthen study techniques.
   • Develop time management skills for sustained academic achievement.
3. Belonging
   Creating a connected, inclusive community.
   • Understand and articulate your role within the residential and broader community.
   • Promote empathy, diversity, and inclusion through active engagement.
   • Contribute to community initiatives and foster a sense of social responsibility.
4. Wellness
   Prioritizing balance and well-being.
   • Develop a personalized wellness plan using the 8 Dimensions of Wellness.
   • Participate in wellness programs to enhance understanding and practice.
   • Adopt habits that support holistic health and a balanced lifestyle.

The Residence Life Association serves as a voice for residential students while offering leadership and engagement opportunities.

• Focus Areas: Advocacy, community involvement, and sustainability.
• Sustainability Initiatives: The former "Sustaining Our Planet Earth" (SOPE) program has been integrated into RLA with dedicated roles to manage recycling and promote eco-friendly programming.

NRHH is a prestigious honorary organization recognizing individuals who advance the residential community.

• Mission: Advocate for residence hall students’ welfare and provide personal growth opportunities.
• Focus: Leadership, development, and acknowledgment of contributions to campus housing.

Special Interest Floors
Focused on specific interest areas, these communities offer:

• Tailored programming and academic enrichment.
• Supportive partnerships between students, faculty, and staff.

Living-Learning Communities
These spaces bring together students with shared passions and goals:

• A hub for collaboration, exploration, and friendship.
• Enhanced support for academic and personal growth.

Gender-Inclusive Housing
Gender-Inclusive housing fosters a welcoming environment for all students, offering the flexibility to live with others regardless of gender identity or expression.