By Sarah Sell, University Communications and Marketing
USF St. Petersburg kicked off another fall semester with all three on-campus residence halls filled to capacity. However, most students who attend the downtown campus commute in.
To further enhance the college experience for these students, new initiatives are being implemented, and the Division of Student Life and Engagement has introduced a new role: coordinator for commuter and off-campus housing.
Over the summer, Kaylee Ayres was hired to fill the position, serving as a dedicated advocate and resource for students who live off campus.
“This position is long overdue,” said Kyonna Henry, director of Student Life & Engagement on the St. Pete campus. “If a student has a 9 a.m. and a 4 p.m. class, what opportunities do they have to get involved with the community? What resources are available to them? We want them to find a sense of belonging while they are here and be part of the USF St. Petersburg experience.”
In her new role, Ayres will focus on developing programs, resources and engagement opportunities from the ground up. The goal is to ensure that off-campus and commuter students feel included in campus life and supported during their academic journey.
Several key initiatives are already underway to amplify the work of this new position:
Commuter lounge: A designated space where students can rest, study, eat and store personal items. The goal is for the lounge - equipped with essentials such as a refrigerator, lockers, a microwave and comfortable seating - to open by the end of the year.
Off-campus housing fairs: Events that connect students with local housing providers and help them make informed decisions, especially when they are signing a lease for the first time. These housing fairs will also help strengthen relationships between the university and nearby housing communities.
Commuter dining plans: Increased promotion of flexible dining options designed specifically for off-campus students who spend time on campus between classes.
Central hub of information: A website and newsletter are in development to share updates, resources and event information tailored to commuter and off-campus students. Student Life and Engagement also recently launched a new Facebook page and Instagram account.
As Ayres settles into her new position, she will have one-on-one conversations with current students to gain a deeper understanding of their challenges and opportunities for engagement.
“I’m really excited about this opportunity,” said Ayres, who came to the St. Petersburg campus from USF Tampa, where she was the program coordinator for the Center for Student Involvement. “I think the biggest thing, especially this first year, is making sure that students are aware that we exist because this is a brand-new position.”
In the months ahead, commuter students can expect to see increased support through campus events, community partnerships and direct outreach.
For more information or to share ideas and feedback about commuter and off-campus housing resources, students are encouraged to contact Kaylee Ayres at kayleeayres@usf.edu.