Residence Life

FAQ

Below are some of our frequently asked questions. If yours isn’t answered or you have additional questions about residence life at Southwestern please contact us directly. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Meal Plan Information

    Those students not on the unlimited meal plan are only able to utilize a meal swipe once during each of the following time periods: 

    For up-to-date hours please check CampusDish

    Breakfast
    Monday – Friday | 7:30AM - 9:30AM
    Saturday – Sunday | Closed

    Continental Breakfast
    Monday – Friday | 9:30AM - 11:00AM
    Saturday – Sunday | Closed

    Brunch
    Monday – Friday | Closed
    Saturday – Sunday | 10:30AM - 2:00PM

    Lunch
    Monday – Friday | 11:00AM - 2:30PM
    Saturday – Sunday | Closed

    Afternoon Snack
    Monday – Friday | 2:30PM - 5:00PM
    Saturday – Sunday | Closed

    Dinner
    Monday – Thursday | 5:00PM - 9:00PM
    Friday – Sunday | 5:00PM - 7:30PM

    If you wish to eat more than once during these time blocks (and are not on the unlimited plan), you are able to use one meal plan swipe for one entry into the Commons and then utilize your Pirate Buc$ to gain a second entrance. 
    Linked here are the 2026-2027 meal plans offered and their associated costs: https://www.southwestern.edu/live/files/11996-2026-27-cost-sheet
    (Note: All meal plans include an 8.25% sales tax. First-Year and Second-Year Students are required to have the Unlimited or 15 Meal Plan.)
  • How Do I Do Laundry on Campus?

    Washers and dryers are provided in residence halls on campus. Each load is 1.25 to wash and 1.25 to dry and you pay for laundry services by using the CSC Go mobile application.

     

    All of our machines can now be operated through the CSC Go mobile application.  You can find the link to the application below.  This new app also allows you to see how many machines are currently available in your assigned laundry room. 
    Once you have used the App to determine that the number of washers you need are open by clicking the “Room” tab on the bottom of the screen, you should follow these steps:
    - Add funds into your wallet by navigating to the “Wallet” tab on the App and clicking “Add Funds.”  Please note that you will not be able to use Pirate Bucks.
     
    - Place your clothes/items and detergent in the open machine. 
    - On the CSC Go App, click the “Start” tab on the bottom of the screen and click the “Open Scanner” option in the middle.  You will then scan the QR code on the machine using your phone camera, see.  You can also use the Tap or license plate number entry features. 
    - The App will always say that your settings are Light, Normal, and Cold. 
    - Adjust the settings on the machine to your desired levels.  Press the green “Start” button on the actual machine. 
    - Once you do this, your phone screen, under the “Laundry” tab will show you how many minutes are left until your laundry cycle is completed. 
    - If you elected to receive notifications from the CSC Go App, you will receive a notification 
  • The Ultimate Packing List

    Southwestern provides:

    • Closets
    • Smoke detectors
    • Blinds
    • Wireless internet
    • Overhead ceiling lights
    • Trash can and recycling bin
    • Extra long twin beds
    • Desk and chair
    • Shower curtain rod
    • Air conditioning / heat

    What to bring with you:

    • Linens (twin XL)
    • Pillows
    • Towels
    • Laundry basket
    • Laundry detergent / dryer sheets
    • Hangers
    • TV
    • Headphones
    • Umbrella
    • Posters, decorations, rugs, etc.
    • 3M Command Adhesive Strips
    • Microwave and refrigerator (coordinate with your roommate)
    • Toiletries
    • First Aid/Medication
    • Cleaning Supplies, Toilet Paper, Paper Goods (cooridnate with your roommate)
    • UL listed power strip
    • Electronic device chargers
    • Decor to help your space feel like home!

    What to leave at home:

    • Alcohol, empty alcohol containers or illegal drugs
    • Food preparation appliances (toaster, air fryers, hot plates, or any cooking appliance with an exposed heating element)
    • Pets (except fish / SU approved service animals)
    • Halogen lamps, space heaters or extension cords
    • Candles and incense
    • Refrigerator larger than 4.3 cubic ft.
    • Firearms, weapons, or fireworks
    • Grills, charcoal, or flammable liquids
    • Extra furniture that the University already provides (University owned furniture cannot be removed from room, this includes mattresses)
    • Wireless routers or access points
    • Bed risers
    • LED strip lights
    • Personal shower heads, bidets, and water filtration attachments
  • Am I Required to Live On-Campus?

    There is an on-campus residency requirement at Southwestern for students who have had less than six full-time semesters in college.  Incoming students must be at least 17 years of age at the time of initial occupancy to live in University housing.