Mayfield Learning Lodge

Participants agree that the experience provides them with a unique opportunity to live and learn at Vanderbilt:

I appreciated the chance to learn about something I had a genuine interest in without the pressures of earning a particular grade. The Lodge is essentially a mini-dorm, but better in the sense that we chose to live with each other to pursue a common goal. Rob Herndon, World Religions-Interfaith Lodge

We have been able to integrate our learning experiences at Vanderbilt by providing local children with a sense of appreciation and understanding of the performing arts that they would not otherwise receive. We have also encouraged other Vanderbilt students to become active in the arts. Nicole Horrigan, Cultural Enrichment Through Performing Arts for Kids

The Mayfield experience requires dedication and commitment from all of its participants. The 2006-07 Lodges include:

• "Justice for the Next Generation"
• "World Religions Conflict and Coexistence"
• "Education and the Digital Divide"
• "A Palette of Culture: Multiculturalism Through the Arts"
• "HOME: Homelessness Outreach Mayflield Experience"
• "Medieval Mayfield"
• "Biomedical Ethics"
• "Music (W.O. Smith School)"

Requirements that each Lodge must fulfill include monthly reports, weekly meetings, lectures with professors and other staff, regular meetings or dinners with advisors and participation in an educational program for the campus community. Those Lodges which are engaged in community service will receive additional materials detailing the unique impact that student volunteers have in serving their local communities along with ideas on how to effectively enhance those contributions through service learning.

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How to Apply

Applications will be available in early December and may be picked up at the Office of Housing and Residential Education. Applications are due in mid to late January. All proposals will be examined and interviews will begin in early February. The spokesperson for each group will be contacted for an appointment. The application and review process will be announced in November.

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How Participants are Selected

Each spring, a selection committee consisting of deans, faculty members, staff from the Office of the Dean of Students, and student representatives of the InterResidence Hall Association --reviews the application packet submitted by each group and interviews the proposed lodge's spokesperson prior to the housing selection process. Completed application packets include a specific proposal outlining the purpose and year-long activities to be accomplished by the Lodge, and a Statement of Support from the faculty member serving as the advisor to the group. During the interview, the goals and objectives of the proposal will be discussed at length.

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Questions & Assistance

If you have questions please contact Assistant Director Doug Hollis at the Office of Housing and Residential Education (322-4696). Lodges wishing to renew their proposals may pick up their renewal forms from the Housing Office; those seeking renewals may also contact Brian Heuser, Program Coordinator at brian.l.heuser@vanderbilt.edu.