During my year of being an RA in Thompson Hall, I have been able to learn the grave impact that residence halls on students’ academic and social success. First year students are able to thrive in communities where they are exposed to different resources on campus and encouraged to join different communities within the hall and outside of the hall. They are able to grow as individuals and become connected to Cal Lu in many different ways. Thompson Hall’s central courtyard has an inviting atmosphere for social connections.