JMU Village Dorm Move-In: A Day of Mixed Emotions
James Madison University (JMU), located in Harrisonburg, Virginia, offers a variety of housing options for its students. One of the most popular and well-loved areas is The Village. This guide will give you an in-depth look at what makes The Village a standout choice for freshmen and upperclassmen alike.
“According to a study by the National Center for Education Statistics, about 19.7 million students are projected to attend colleges and universities in the fall of 2024.”
A New Chapter Begins
On August 20, 2022, we embarked on a journey to Harrisonburg, Virginia, for MacKenzie’s JMU Village Dorm Move-In. The morning was calm, the kind of quiet that comes with big changes. As we loaded the van, my heart felt heavy with a mix of pride and sadness. But I knew this was an important step for my daughter.
The Drive to Harrisonburg
The drive was serene. We filled the quiet with Taylor Swift songs and conversations about MacKenzie’s dreams for college. It was a 2-hour and 40-minute drive, and each mile brought us closer to her new adventure.
We made a pit stop for gas, and that’s when the emotions overwhelmed me. Tears streamed down my face, and MacKenzie, always intuitive, gave me a comforting hug. She guided me to a display of Ty Plush toys and pointed out a flamingo and a sloth side by side, saying, “Look, Mommy. It’s you and me.” It was a small moment of reassurance, reminding me that no matter where she goes, our bond remains strong.
Arrival at JMU Village Dorm
Finally, we reached The Village at James Madison University. The campus buzzed with the excitement and anticipation of move-in day.
Location and Layout
The Village is strategically located near the center of JMU’s campus, making it convenient for students to access academic buildings, dining halls, and recreational facilities. The Village is comprised of seven buildings: A, B, C, D, E, F, and G. Each building features suite-style living, which provides a unique balance of community and privacy for students.
MacKenzie checked in, and we were instructed to unload her belongings onto the sidewalk where the FROGS (First Year Orientation Guides) would assist us.
“Moving into a dorm can be a daunting task, but with the help of orientation guides like the FROGS at JMU, the process becomes much smoother.”
Moving In
We began the task of moving her essentials to the third floor of Building C. She had chosen a suite, which included a common room and three dorm rooms, each housing two students. The unpacking process was laborious, taking us about 45 minutes before we saw any FROGS to help.
Suite-Style Living
Room Setup
Each suite in The Village typically consists of:
- Three double-occupancy rooms: Accommodating six students per suite.
- Shared common area: A great place for suitemates to relax, study, or hang out.
- Shared bathroom: Equipped with sinks, toilets, and showers.
This layout fosters a sense of community while still offering students their own private space.
Then she opened the door to her dorm.
Settling In
Once everything was in her room, we started unpacking and organizing. MacKenzie’s roommate arrived a couple of hours later, and we all enjoyed getting to know each other while the girls set up their space. The suite was adorable, a cozy home away from home.
The Village Suites offer three dorm rooms, each with two students. There is a common area for them to hang out.
Amenities
The Village dorms come with several amenities to ensure a comfortable living experience:
- Air conditioning: Each room is equipped with air conditioning to keep students comfortable throughout the year.
- Laundry facilities: Conveniently located within each building.
- Wi-Fi: High-speed internet access is available throughout The Village.
- Study lounges: Dedicated spaces for quiet study sessions or group projects.
- Common kitchens: Available for students who enjoy cooking their own meals.
It turned out adorable.
Embracing the Change
Surprisingly, I didn’t shed a tear once we were on campus. I left with a heart full of hope, knowing MacKenzie was about to embark on a journey filled with new friends, lifelong memories, and countless opportunities. She has worked so hard to reach this point, and seeing her excitement made every effort worth it.
Community and Activities
Living in The Village provides students with numerous opportunities to get involved and build lasting friendships. The Resident Advisors (RAs) organize a variety of events and activities, such as:
- Welcome events: Helping new students get to know each other and the campus.
- Study groups: Organized to help students succeed academically.
- Social gatherings: Including movie nights, game nights, and cultural events.
These activities are designed to foster a strong sense of community and make The Village feel like home.
I left knowing my girl is going to do great things and she is going to meet incredible friends who will someday be lifelong friends, bridesmaids, and baby shower hostesses for each other.
I’m excited for his new chapter.
Dining Options
The Village is conveniently located near several dining options on campus. Some popular spots include:
- D-Hall (Dingledine Hall): A large dining hall offering a variety of food options.
- E-Hall (East Campus Dining Hall): Known for its diverse menu and themed dining nights.
- Festival Food Court: Featuring popular chain restaurants and quick bites.
These dining facilities offer meal plans to accommodate different dietary needs and preferences.
She’ll have a few days to settle in before JMU’s first day of school to explore the campus and meet people.
Proximity to Campus Resources
One of the biggest advantages of living in The Village is its proximity to essential campus resources. Students have easy access to:
- Academic buildings: Short walks to most classrooms and lecture halls.
- Libraries: Carrier Library and Rose Library are nearby for research and study.
- Recreation facilities: Including the University Recreation Center (UREC) for fitness and sports activities.
- Student services: Such as the Health Center, Counseling Center, and Career Services.
Safety and Security
JMU places a high priority on the safety and security of its students. The Village is equipped with:
- 24/7 security: Including key card access to buildings and rooms.
- Emergency call boxes: Strategically placed throughout the area.
- Regular patrols: Conducted by campus police to ensure a safe environment.
Dorm Essentials:
Moving into The Villages at JMU can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience.
Here are some packing tips to ensure a smooth transition:
Essentials to Pack
- Bedding and Linens:
- Twin XL sheets
- Comforter and blankets
- Pillows and pillowcases
- Mattress pad
- Clothing:
- Seasonal clothes (consider Harrisonburg’s climate)
- Comfortable shoes and slippers
- Hangers for the closet
- Personal Care Items:
- Toiletries (soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste)
- Towels and washcloths
- Shower caddy and flip-flops
- Laundry detergent and basket
- Room Décor and Organization:
- Storage bins and organizers
- Desk lamp and lighting
- Posters, photos, and wall decorations
- Command hooks and strips
- Study Supplies:
- Notebooks, binders, and folders
- Pens, pencils, and highlighters
- Desk organizer
- Planner or calendar
- Electronics:
- Laptop and charger
- Power strips and extension cords
- Phone charger
- Small fan
- Kitchen Essentials:
- Microwave and mini-fridge (check dorm rules)
- Reusable water bottle and coffee mug
- Utensils, plates, and bowls
- Non-perishable snacks
- Miscellaneous:
- Important documents (ID, insurance, academic records)
- First-aid kit
- Umbrella and rain gear
- Small toolkit
Packing Tips
- Label Everything:
- Clearly mark boxes and bags with your name, dorm, and room number.
- Use Space Wisely:
- Utilize under-bed storage and vertical space with shelves.
- Coordinate with Roommate:
- Avoid duplicates by discussing with your roommate what each of you is bringing.
- Pack Smart:
- Use vacuum storage bags for bulky items like bedding and clothes.
- Prepare a First-Night Box:
- Pack essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, and bed linens in an easily accessible box for the first night.
- Check Dorm Regulations:
- Review JMU’s list of prohibited items to avoid bringing anything that’s not allowed.
- Bring a Cart or Dolly:
- Make move-in easier by bringing a cart or dolly for transporting heavy items.
Additional Tips
- Arrive Early: Beat the rush by arriving early on move-in day.
- Stay Hydrated: Moving can be physically demanding, so keep water handy.
- Be Patient: Move-in day can be hectic, so stay calm and patient as you navigate the process.
By following these packing tips, you can ensure a smooth and organized move into The Villages at JMU, setting yourself up for a successful and enjoyable college experience.
Final Thoughts
As we drove away, I felt a mix of emotions. It was the end of an era but also the beginning of a wonderful new chapter. MacKenzie has a few days to settle in, explore the campus, and meet new people before JMU’s first day of school. I know she’s going to thrive, and I can’t wait to see all the amazing things she will accomplish.
The Village at JMU offers a unique and enriching residential experience. Its suite-style living, convenient location, and strong sense of community make it a popular choice among students. Whether you’re a freshman just starting your college journey or an upperclassman looking for a vibrant place to live, The Village provides the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and camaraderie.
If you’re preparing for move-in day or considering The Village as your future home, remember to check out my Amazon affiliate link for all the dorm essentials you’ll need: Amazon Dorm Essentials. Feel free to share your own JMU housing experiences or ask any questions in the comments below. Let’s connect and make your college journey unforgettable!