A longitudinal study of sense of belonging to a residential college

Since the implementation of the Residential Commons (RC), SMU Residence Life and Student Housing have widely discussed the idea of residents belonging to their Residential Commons. Each Commons has a unique identity, crest, and values which have led to the creation of unique programs, traditions, and experiences for each RC. To this point, SMU RLSH had not identified or measured strategies for increasing belonging, or examined the impact RC belonging has on the overall student experience. This research was focused on identifying factors that create affiliation towards a student’s Residential Commons. The research was conducted in two parts, a pre- and post-test, to examine student self-reported affiliation factors. Students did not need to complete both parts of the survey for research to be completed.

SMU IRB: H20-126-GRAD​

Collaborators: