<p>I'm very interested in the Sharpe Scholar Program. I think it's everything I stand for and that it's a great opportunity. My friend who is a freshman just did it and loved it, which only assures me more that I want to do it. But there's only one thing holding me back...</p>
<p>HOUSING. I realize Sharpies typically live in Spotswood and there's a seminar there for all those who participate. I get it. But I REALLY want to live in a large hall, like Dupont or Yates. Is there any way I can still participate in the program and live in a bigger dorm? I don't want something silly like dorm size to hold me back from such an opportunity but as ridiculous as it sounds, it's actually something I care about. Thanks :)</p>
<p>We’d recommend you contact the Office of Community Engagement and Service and ask if there are any exceptions to the housing component for Sharpe. That office governs the Sharpe Scholars so likely that is at their discretion.</p>
<p>One thing to think about, pessimistic as it may seem, if you request a larger residence hall in the roommate questionnaire, there’s no guarantee you’ll get it. Residence Life certainly tries to honor requests but they have more requests than spaces available in Yates and Dupont. So if you request a large dorm but by chance don’t get one, then you may have sacrified Sharpe and still not gotten the larger residence hall you desired. Just something to consider.</p>
<p>Our colleagues in the Office of Community Engagement and Service let us know that you can request housing outside of the Sharpe dorm and they will consider the request but they do not guarantee that they will grant it. They have the program is most beneficial when students are together in the Sharpe living and learning community.</p>
<p>Okay, thanks so much! Do I have to do anything special to make that kind of request or on my housing questionnaire do I just put that I’d prefer a large hall? Or is there some sort of option in the Sharpe application?</p>
<p>Our colleagues in Residence Life said that you should not indicate Sharpe as your preference on the housing form and then email <a href=“mailto:living@wm.edu”>living@wm.edu</a> and explain why you are applying for Sharpe but requesting not to live in it. Residence Life and the Office of Community Engagement and Service will collaborate before housing assignments are released and determine whether or not they will grant you an exemption from living in the Sharpe dorm</p>
<p>Is it possible for non-Sharpe scholars to be roommates with Sharpe scholars IN Spotswood Hall? The website says “Sharpe scholars are required to live together in Spotswood Hall as participants,” but can any exceptions be made to this as well? Would there be any extra room?</p>
<p>Let us check with our colleagues in Residence Life and get back to you</p>