Asia House was established in 1967 as both a student residence hall and a center for much of the college's programs and activities associated with non-Western studies. The original proposal grew out of widespread interest in Asian cultures and affairs, as well as a desire to introduce an intellectual and cultural dimension into residence hall life. Asia House has committed itself to enriching and educating the Oberlin community about Asian/Asian-American cultures and political and social issues through a series of programs, including films, slide shows, lectures, concerts, dinners and demonstrations.

Asia House programming is subsidized by East Asian Studies, Residential Education & Dining Services and House Council funds. As a result of the various interests and backgrounds of residents, specific attention may be given to East, South, Southeast Asia and Asian-American issues. However, this is not to say that West, North, or Northeast Asian issues is not encouraged. In general, the direction that Asia House programming takes in any given year is highly dependent on the makeup of the community.

In March 1995 the Asia House charter was revised in order to 1) broaden the focus of the house to include not only issues dealing with Asian culture, but Asian-American interests and affairs; 2) expand the education of Asia House residents; and 3) create a greater sense of awareness of and sensitivity to such issues. The charter was also revised in the hope of a greater unification of interests between Asia House and other Asian/Asian-American organizations at Oberlin.

It is important that the residents take an active part in programming and in the Asia House/Asian/Asian-American communities. Residents are expected to organize and attend a reasonable amount of activities sponsored by Asia House, and are encouraged to take academic courses that will broaden their knowledge of Asia and Asian-American issues.

Residents are selected according to criteria established by an Asia House selection committee, consisting of the professional and in hall student staff. The criteria includes:

1. A demonstrated interest in Asia and Asian-American issues.
2. Active participation in Asia House programming on the part of current residents.
3. A desire to become a part of an active, diverse community, and a willingness to work for its maintenance and growth.

Residents are expected, in a communal effort, to generate and carry out Asia House programs throughout the academic year. Former or current residents of Asia House are not given any priority over new applicants in the selection process for residency in the House. However, current residents who are readmitted are given preference within their class in terms of room selection. Students of Asian heritage or nationality are not given any priority over non-Asian students. Applicants who are not initially offered residency in Asia House will be put on a wait list.

I have read the above information describing Asia House and understand that as a resident I would be expected to participate actively in the planning and execution of Asia House activities, and to make contributions towards the creation of a warm and unified community. I understand that I may be asked to give up my room if I am unable to fulfill this commitment.  

A mansion built during the Civil War, Russian House is the focal point for activities related to the Russian language program. Language proficiency among residents ranges from beginning to advanced. Residents often point to the homey atmosphere of the house as one of their favorite aspects of Allencroft, due in part to the cozy living room, interestingly shaped rooms and the popular front porch gathering spot. House events include weekly Russian movies, Russian tea twice a month, picnics, lectures and holiday celebrations. The house is staffed by a Russian Faculty in Residence.

The goal of the Russian House Program is to foster an environment in which students can explore their interests in Russian language, culture and history. As Russian House is primarily a language program, first priority for residence is given to students of Russian language. Second priority is given to students of Russian culture, history, politics and/or literature, while third priority is given to other interested students. Part of what allows Russian House to become a close-knit community is the cultural programs that are designed by house members. While Russian House is not a quiet house, due to its small size and construction qualities as a home, it requires that residents are particularly respectful of each other’s right to a quiet and peaceful atmosphere conducive to community living and learning.

I have read the above information describing Russian House and understand that as a resident I would be expected to participate actively in the planning and execution of house activities, and to make contributions towards the creation of a warm and unified community. I understand that I may be asked to give up my room if I am unable to fulfill this commitment.  

Bailey House is a small hall on the north campus. Other features of the building include a large lounge and a cozy kitchen. The staff includes two graduate teaching assistants from France and one faculty member-in-residence. Residents include all levels of fluency. On weekdays, they can share meals in a private dining room in Stevenson Hall. French films, social activities, and a French breakfast every other Sunday are regular aspects of house programming.

Un entretien individuel avec l’équipe de La maison francophone est obligatoire pour être admis. Après que vous aurez soumis cette demande, vous serez contacté par courriel pour fixer la date de votre entretien qui aura lieu à La maison francophone.

La maison francophone est une maison à programme. Le succès de ses activités dépend en grande partie de la participation et de l’enthousiasme de ses résidents. Ceux-ci sont choisis en fonction de leur désir d’améliorer leur connaissance de la langue et de la culture francophone. Un certain degré de participation est donc exigé et les résident(e)s doivent adhérer à quelques règles de base :

1. Chaque résident(e) s’engage à parler français dans La maison francophone (le salon et les couloirs) ainsi que lors des activités organisées par les animateurs.
2. Chaque résident(e) doit manger à la table française (Stevenson, salle « Chez nous », du lundi soir au vendredi midi) cinq (5) fois par semaine.
3. Il est obligatoire d’assister à la majorité des activités organisées par La maison. Chaque résident(e) doit contribuer aux activités de La maison en apportant ses idées et en participant activement au sein des comités d’organisation des activités culturelles.
4. Chaque résident(e) s’engage à observer les règles de La maison francophone établies par la direction et les assistants ainsi qu’à prendre soin de La maison (cuisine, salon, bibliothèque, etc).

Je comprends et j’accepte les conditions requises pour habiter La maison francophone. Au cas où je ne pourrais pas participer selon les règles de base ci-dessus, j’accepte de céder ma place à un(e) autre candidat(e).  

Baldwin Cottage is the home of the Women's Collective, a close-knit community that provides women and transgendered with a safe space for discussion, communal living, and personal development. The members of the Collective work to create a safe space for discussion and support of feminist, gender, and women's issues. Built in 1889, Baldwin is one of the loveliest residence halls on campus, with spacious rooms, high ceilings, and large windows. It also has a piano lounge, several large open lounges, and many nooks and corners perfect for reading, studying and conversing. Programming has included the Women and Transgender Biannual Coffeehouse, featuring poetry readings and dance and vocal performances by women; a lecture series on feminist topics; art shows featuring works by women; transgender discussions led by the MRC; and support groups. The Women's Collective is open to women of all races, nationalities, religions, and sexual orientations. The Collective has a committee that reviews applications and selects persons whom they think will contribute most to the program of the house. There will be a lottery to determine room assignments. A waitlist will be generated if there are more accepted applicants than spaces available.

If accepted to Baldwin, I understand that I will be expected to participate actively in the planning and execution of activities, and to make contributions toward the creation of a strong community. I realize that this includes participating in the planning of at least one program per semester, and attending weekly house meetings. I understand that I may be asked to give up my room if I am unable to fulfill this commitment.  

La Casa Hispánica fue creada hace más de 30 años como una residencia para que los estudiantes tuvieran la oportunidad de vivir el idioma español a partir de su exposición y participación en actividades culturales y académicas de las diferentes culturas, tanto iberoamericanas como latinas. Desde entonces, La Casa Hispánica ha sido una de las residencias estudiantiles de referencia dentro de Oberlin College por su cantidad y calidad de actividades culturales en español promovidas durante el año académico. Así, el estudiante que elige ser residente de La Casa tiene la oportunidad de estar en contacto con el idioma español constantemente, gracias a su interacción con el/la director/a, los dos asistentes/as, y con el resto de los residentes de La Casa, coordinados por el/la R.A. y un estudiante-ayudante.

Los estudiantes que residen en La Casa Hispánica tienen tradicionalmente la oportunidad de practicar el idioma español la mayoría del tiempo en sus espacios públicos. Además, el residente de La Casa suele comer en El Rincón Latino, la mesa reservada para el idioma español en el comedor Stevenson. Allí el estudiante se encuentra con otros compañeros y profesores con los que puede conversar con naturalidad a la hora de la comida. Junto a las actividades organizadas por el departamento de Estudios Hispánicos, los residentes de La Casa tendrán la oportunidad de organizar sus propias actividades culturales, para las que contarán con una serie de becas y ayudas.

Se espera además que el residente de La Casa organice al menos una actividad cultural –individual o colectivamente– en la que comparta su experiencia personal sobre la cultura hispánica (viajes, libros, música, etc.) u otra actividad social en la que se mezcle la comunicación en español y el entusiasmo de la persona por esa actividad (cocinar, enseñar a bailar, debates sobre política, etc.).

En los últimos años ha crecido la demanda de residentes que quieren vivir en La Casa, por lo que se dará prioridad a los estudiantes en cuya instancia de solicitud se aprecie mayor interés en vivir cotidianamente las culturas iberoamericanas y latinas, además del compromiso de practicar el idioma español en las diferentes situaciones ofrecidas al residente en su convivencia en La Casa.

Si se me acepta para vivir en La Casa, entiendo que se espera que [yo] participe activamente en el planeamiento, organización y ejecución de actividades, y que contribuya a la creación de una comunidad vibrante y unida. Entiendo que esto incluye organizar por lo menos una actividad cultural- ya sea sola/o o en grupo- en la que compartiré mis experiencias personales sobre la cultura hispana (viajes, libros, música, folclor, etc.) u otra actividad social en la que se mezclen la comunicación en español y mi entusiasmo por esa actividad (cocinar, enseñar a bailar, debates sobre política, etc.). Entiendo que se me pedirá dejar La Casa si no puedo cumplir con estos requisitos.  

La Casa Hispánica was established more than thirty years ago as a residential house in order for students to have the opportunity to live the Spanish language through exposure to and participation in cultural and academic activities of the various Ibero-American and Latino cultures. Since then, La Casa has been one of the most admired residential living units in Oberlin College, for both the quantity and quality of the cultural activities in Spanish promoted during the academic year. Therefore the students who choose to reside in La Casa have the opportunity to be in constant contact with the Spanish language, thanks to their interaction with the Director, the two graduate Assistants, and with the rest of the residents of La Casa, coordinated by two student aides, the R.A., and one elected by vote.

A student who resides in La Casa Hispánica traditionally has the opportunity to practice the Spanish language the majority of the time in its public spaces. Furthermore, the residents of La Casa customarily eat at El Rincón Latino, the table reserved for the Spanish language in Stevenson dining hall. There, students informally meet and talk with fellow students and professors during mealtimes.

Each resident of La Casa is expected to organize at least one cultural activity, individually or as a group with other students, in which to share personal experiences with Hispanic or Latino culture (travel, books, music, etc.), or any other social activity in which communication in Spanish is combined with the student’s enthusiasm for that activity (cooking, dance lessons, political debates, etc.). In addition to the activities organized by the Department of Hispanic Studies, the residents of La Casa will have the opportunity to organize their own cultural activities, with the help of a small fund budgeted for this purpose.

In recent years there has been an increase in the number of students who wish to reside in La Casa, with the result that priority will be given to students whose applications demonstrate the greatest interest in living Ibero-American and Latino culture every day and in practicing Spanish in the different situations offered a resident during his or her communal experience at La Casa.

If accepted to La Casa, I understand that I will be expected to participate actively in the planning and execution of activities, and to make contributions toward the creation of a strong community. I realize that this includes organizing at least one cultural activity, individually or as a group with other students, in which to share personal experiences with Hispanic or Latino culture (travel, books, music, etc.), or any other social activity in which communication in Spanish is combined with my interest in that activity (cooking, dance lessons, political debates, etc.). I understand that I may be asked to give up my room if I am unable to fulfill this commitment.  

The JWST Program House, called Johnson House, is designed to educate its residents about Jewish culture and Middle Eastern politics. This close community provides an environment conducive to exploring Jewish religious, cultural and political issues. Although Hebrew is not often spoken in the House, it is encouraged. Residents are not expected to have any prior knowledge of, or ethnic background of Judaism. Many House programs incorporate introductory-level explanations. The major Jewish holidays are celebrated in the House as are occasional Friday night Onegs (parties for Shabbat). Each resident is required to help plan at least one program per semester and everyone is expected to participate in House activities and contribute in their personal areas of interest. Regardless of ethnicity or religious background, any interested student is welcome to live in Johnson House.

It must be stressed that residence in Johnson House brings with it a measure of responsibility. Participation in House activities is required of all residents. This includes the following:

1. Planning and/or setting up for regular events (e.g., House meetings, Oneg Shabbats) on a rotating basis.
2. Completion of at least one program per semester (e.g., Sukkot, film series, arranging speakers, etc.). This can also include signing up to do a specific job- then doing it! Types of jobs include: 1) organizing the program; 2) menu planning; 3) setting and cleaning up; and 4) publicity, etc.

I hereby apply for residence in Johnson House. If accepted, I commit myself to participating in House activities. I understand that if I fail to meet these requirements, I may be asked to give up residence in the House.  

Max Kade German house is one of the Language Program Houses of Oberlin College. It is co-ed by room and can house 36 residents. Established to offer students the opportunity of enhancing their German studies and to introduce them to the German culture, German House is especially attractive to students who want to improve or maintain their German and to those who wish to learn more about the German way of life. Everyday interaction is supported by the presence of the Graduate Assistant, a native speaker from Germany who spends the year in Oberlin as a part-time student; and a Faculty-in–Residence, another native speaker who coordinates the program house in addition to teaching classes.

Other attractions are the German House Library containing over 1,000 volumes, a big screen TV used to show German House’s large video collection, and the annual Max Kade Writer–in-Residence lecture.

The direction of German House life and programming is dependent upon the chemistry of the residence hall community in a given year. The residents’ initiative and energy are responsible for the spirit and atmosphere of the house. Social programming focuses on facilitating the use of German by creating a friendly and relaxed atmosphere for residents to interact. Study breaks, picnics, brunches and parties are a part of the program as well as musical performances, talent shows, films, guest speakers, Oktoberfest, Fasching, cooking German food, and a variety of programs around German life and culture. A vital part of the German program is the daily lunch and dinner at German Table in Stevenson dining hall. Participation is highly recommended.

Residents are selected according to criteria established by the selection committee (the Faculty-in-Residence, current RA and/or rising RA, and house residents.)

I have read the above information about German House. As a resident I will be expected to:

1. Demonstrate an interest in German House matters.
2. Participate in the program by contributing ideas and time for planning and events and by being an active member.
3. Be willing to speak German at the German Table and other German House programs.
4. Be part of the community and accept responsibility for its maintenance and growth.
5. Enroll in a beginning German class during that year if I do not speak German yet.
6. Be willing to commit the extra time required by living in a small and active program house.

I agree to contribute to the well being of a lively and unified community. I realize that if I am unable to fulfill these commitments I may be asked to give up my room.  

Afrikan Heritage House serves as a resource and safe haven for all students of the African Diaspora. “A-House,” as it is affectionately known, strives to maintain an environment that encourages cultural education and celebration of any and all Black experiences. Exceptional potential residents have demonstrated and will demonstrate their dedication to upholding the House’s mission and willingness to engage in dialogue around issues affecting people of African descent. As a resident of the Afrikan Heritage House you will be required to express an interest and commitment to learning about African Diasporic history and culture (including but not limited to African, African American, and Caribbean cultures), especially through regular participation and assistance in programs held in the Afrikan Heritage House. In addition, enrollment in one African American Studies course per semester is highly suggested.

I have read the above information about Afrikan Heritage House. As a resident I will be expected to:

1. Express an interest and commitment to African, African-American, Caribbean, etc. history and culture through regular participation and assistance in programs held in the Afrikan-Heritage House.
2. Enroll in one African-American studies course per semester.

I agree to contribute to the well-being of a lively and unified community. I realize that if I am unable to fulfill these commitments I may be asked to give up my room.  

Third World House (TWH) is a political and cultural community. It serves as an arena for critical analysis and discussion of liberation, self-determination, and combating oppression in the West through solidarity among marginalized peoples. Residency in TWH is open to any student through an application process, which may include an interview. Residents form a close-knit community in which students help each other academically, politically, and culturally. Price is a two-story, modern brick building, which has a large lounge perfect for house discussions and programs of interest to the entire Oberlin community. Although Third World House is not affiliated with the Co-op of the same name, some residents are members of the Third World Dining Co-op. Other residents may also choose to share meals together in the nearby Lord-Saunders Dining Hall.

I have read the above information describing Third World House and understand that as a resident I would be expected to participate actively in the planning and execution of house activities, and to make contributions towards the creation of a warm and unified community. I understand that I may be asked to give up my room if I am unable to fulfill this commitment.  

Quiet Floor is allocated for those who want quiet living conditions all the time, 24 hours a day.

I agree to abide by the norms of courtesy and quiet living as agreed to by all the residents. If I fail to live up to this commitment, I agree to move at any time to another campus living space.  

Substance Free Housing is for those who want to live in a community free from alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. Students choose substance-free housing for a variety of reasons. Some are committed to a substance-free lifestyle based on personal or family history, while others choose the option based on the environment attained from the absence of alcohol and other drug use.

The standards of the Substance-Free Area include:

• No alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs will be used within the Substance-Free environment.
• Residents who do return to the floor under the influence will not exhibit disruptive behaviors.
• Members will help confront persons violating these standards.
• There will be specific consequences for violating the contract-including removal from hall.

Applications are reviewed by a subcommittee comprised of Residential Education and Student Life Staff. Applicants who are not initially offered residency in the Area will be put on a wait list. I understand that if accepted I will be required to sign a contract agreeing to the standards of the hall.  

Recovery or sober living housing is a living option provided by Oberlin College in recognition of a need for a support community for students in varying stages of recovery from alcohol addiction and other substance abuse issues. Recovery housing goes beyond the current substance free living option. The college will designate a house or houses, the location as yet undisclosed, for students with a demonstrated need for this housing alternative. Students applying for Recovery Housing must provide documentation of successful treatment from a Treatment Provider or Treatment Program.

I understand that if accepted into Recovery Housing I will be asked to sign a contract and confidentiality agreement.  

As residents will be sharing space closely with the Edmonia Lewis Center for Women and Transgender People, it is desired that residents have a certain level of comfort with the issues the ELC addresses. Accordingly, the ELC apartment is a gender neutral housing unit and residents will be living in an intimate setting with people from different social, racial, backgrounds, and/or people of different nationalities, sexualities, gender expression/identities etc.

Ideal residents actively engage diversity and other issues as stated in the ELC information packet and strive to follow the ELC guiding principles.

It must be stressed, due to the close vicinity of residential quarters to the ELC living in the ELC duplex brings with it certain conditions that are different from traditional college housing. In addition to those of Residential Education, ELC residents are required to agree to the terms set forth by the Edmonia Lewis Center for Women and Transgender People; these are:

Noise levels must be kept at a minimum during the day and night whenever there is a class or other event in progress.

Residents are expected to read the ELC mission and guiding principles; fully understand ELC mission and guiding principles; respect ELC mission and guiding principles; and to be respectful of space of the ELC and ELC affiliated programs.

Residents must consult with the Board prior to scheduling large social events (i.e. parties). Residents are responsible for the conduct of their guests. Residential events cannot conflict with, disrupt or otherwise compromise the work of the ELC, ELC programs or affiliated events.

Residents are NOT by virtue of their residency in the house on the ELC Board. Residents must apply separately to be on the Board. By extension, residents are not asked to run or develop programming for the ELC. However, residents are encouraged to attend ELC programs and suggestions are always welcome.

Residents will be held responsible for their behavior in relationship to the work of the ELC. However, the ELC does recognize inherit flaws in the human condition and will deal with issues separately as cases arise. The ELC will not monitor residential behavior; it is not the duty of the ELC to mediate residential conflict not related to the ELC or the work of the ELC. Residents are encouraged to find ways to resolve conflict between themselves or with outside mediation.

Residents will be notified in advance of ELC program schedule. A calendar of events will be kept on ELC door and updated by the Board.

If any resident disrupts or otherwise compromises the work or policies of the ELC, as are defined by the Board, or affiliated programming, the ELC Board reserves the right to ask residents to permanently leave the apartment.

I do hereby affirm that I have read and fully understand the above statement, have read and fully understand the mission and guiding principles of the Edmonia Lewis Center for Women and Transgender People. I promise to abide by these terms and do understand that I will be held responsible for up holding these terms as stated.  

In this application, we’re interested in your commitment to the goals of the house, your ability to function well with house residents, and any diversity you bring to the group. We would love to house a group of students with diverse backgrounds, interests, and academic pursuits. We take a work hard, play hard approach to living in the house: it takes a substantial weekly time commitment, but residents should never feel stressed when returning to their home. Any severe violations of school policy, however, will lead to the theme house’s cancellation, so severe violations are not a good idea. If you are eligible for village housing (all you need is four semesters in residence already), we’d love to have you apply! We are also interested in applicants who will live in the house spring semester only.

I agree to contribute to the well being of a lively and unified community. I realize that if I am unable to fulfill these commitments I may be asked to give up my room.