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Active Living

Active Living residential learning community is about building friendships that last. Experiencing new and exciting outdoor challenges to help you grow and envision a bigger picture of the world around you. Active Living students hike, camp, cycle, swim, kayak, and lift weights. We promote healthy minds and happy bodies by sharing recipes, cooking, and enjoying good nutrition.

We'll have special move-in events like the traditional group hike to the wind turbine on top of campus. The Resident Assistant (RA) on your floor will work with you to explain and administer community standards of behavior. As Active Living students, we set an example for others on campus through our healthy behaviors and active lifestyles!

Part of being in Active Living is getting connected. We'll have exclusive events provided by University Recreation and University Wellness Services. In order to be our best, we serve others. There will be volunteer opportunities throughout each semester.

If you plan to build your leadership skills, Active Living is the place to do it. Some residents apply to remain in the RLC during their sophomore year, serving as mentors to incoming students. Top performers aspire to become RAs. Many of our floor RAs were Active Living students who are now leading the program!

Dr. Thomas Mueller, a professor in the Department of Communication as well as a former ultrarunner and current active cyclist, serves as Faculty-in-Residence and advisor to Active Living. If you have questions related to your active lifestyle, studies, or future career, Dr. Mueller will be there to help.

As part of the Active Living community, you will be required to complete our associated First Year Seminar "Exploring Grandfather Mountain." You will learn about Grandfathers geological and cultural significance, investigate the mountain's history, and take field trips to observe land management and access. The course will be taught by trail conservationist Paul Stahlschmidt.

Members of Active Living will be required to:
  • Successfully complete the "Exploring Grandfather Mountain" Active Living First Year Seminar
  • Actively engage with Faculty-In-Residence Dr. Thomas Mueller (Active Living advisor)
  • Participate in a move-in orientation event
  • Participate in community activities and events
  • Work with the Resident Assistant to develop community standards
  • Participate in selected opportunities provided by University Recreation
  • Model healthy behaviors and set an example for other students
  • Volunteer for RLC community service
Sponsoring Departments
Department of Wellness & Prevention Services

The Department of Wellness & Prevention Services (opens in a new tab) helps students make choices to facilitate a better quality of life by making healthy decisions.

University Recreation

University Recreation (opens in a new tab) provides indoor and outdoor athletic activities for students. Three recreation centers are available on campus for fitness and excercise opportunties.

Counseling & Psychological Services

The Counseling & Psychological Services Center (opens in a new tab) provides support and counseling for students' academic, vocational, emotional, social, and cultural needs.