About Residence Life at UP | University of Portland

About Residence Life at UP

At UP, we pride ourselves on being a residential campus with an emphasis on community. Our residential experience facilitates the transition to college life for those new to campus and nurtures the interests of continuing students. Students share the experience of living in communities where their social activities, service opportunities, and coursework are designed to enhance the UP experience and promote a commitment to holistic education. 

4-Year Residential Student Experience

All undergraduate students are required to live on campus during their first and second years at UP. Longstanding research shows that living on campus has a profound impact on students in college. 

Year 1 (First-Year)

Research shows that on campus residents tend to have better grades, increased retention and persistence, and a higher likelihood of graduating in four years. As a first year student at UP, you will be able to:  

  • Experience living away from home for the first time
  • Build relationships with your roommate and new friends
  • Live with others from different backgrounds, cultures, and stories
  • Attend floor “family dinners" and other in-hall programs and events at night and on weekends

Year 2 (Sophomore)

As a sophomore at UP, you will be able to:  

  • Get involved through Hall Council and consider taking on a leadership role
  • Become a Wellness Ambassador or Community Assistant in your hall
  • Help develop and plan your hall’s signature events
  • Consider helping with your hall’s weekly Mass

Year 3 (Junior)

Research also shows that positive academic and personal outcomes are sustained and further enhanced the longer students live on campus. Housing at UP is available during your entire time as a Pilot. As a junior at UP, you will be able to:   

  • Take on higher-level and paid leadership roles in your hall including Community Assistant (CA), Resident Assistant (RA), or Service & Justice Coordinator (SJC)
  • Help mentor and support younger residents in your hall
  • Take on expanded roles in assisting hall staff with meetings, programs, and events for the community

Year 4 (Senior)

  • Continue enjoying life in our traditional halls or consider moving to an on-campus apartment or rental house with UP friends to gain new independence. 
  • Take on higher-level and paid leadership roles in your hall including Community Assistant (CA), Resident Assistant (RA), or Service & Justice Coordinator (SJC)
  • Help mentor and support younger residents in your hall
  • Build a new hall signature event or tradition that will live on once you graduate