Since you're reading this, it's probably fair to assume that you are interested in being part of Computer Science House, one of the most widely recognized and appraised organizations within the Rochester Institute of Technology. You will have many decisions to make at RIT, but if you fancy yourself a social, active, intelligent, or dedicated person, Computer Science House is the place for you.
A great way for you to meet members and learn about CSH is to take a tour during one of RIT's Open Houses. For dates, visit the RIT Admissions web site. Personalized tours of the floor are given by members on the listed dates. If you are unable to attend an Open House, email the Eval Director to schedule a time that is best for you.
If you are interested in CSH, you can learn more about us by reading below.
What is Computer Science House?
CSH is one of the eight Special Interest Houses. There seems to be a tendency for incoming students to typecast members of Special Interest Houses. So, before delving into all that this establishment is, we will clarify what it is not.
It isn’t a huge LAN party. We are not anti-social students who just sit in dark rooms doing homework or playing video games. While video games are an undeniable part of some members' lives, there is much more to this place.
If you walk around floor, you will find open doors and welcoming people, conversation, and most of all, friends. You will know everyone on the entire floor, and they will know you. It's not all about scripting, coding, networking, and technology. There is always something to do. Someone on floor may be working on a project or participating in one of our many events and activities.
Members
Computer Science House boasts some of the best minds in almost every computer-related field. As a member, you will be meeting people who can help you with your classes, teach you new tricks, and assist you in making the absolute most of your college experience, as well as making friendships that will last you your entire life.
We make an ongoing effort to keep a strong connection with our alumni. Alumni often give back by participating in storytelling nights, conducting educational seminars, working on projects with current members, and donating. They also provide unique networking opportunities between members and industry professionals.
Don’t be daunted, however. People here are not judged according to their technical abilities — and for that matter, they are not judged at all. You don't need to be majoring in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or even anything related. Maybe you’re a business major, or perhaps an art student; all we expect is that you have an interest in computers, a willingness to be active on floor, and a desire to excel in all aspects of your life, from academic to social and technical to creative.
Member Expectations
There are a few things you should know before you apply. CSH expects its members to participate in weekly meetings and events. Each member's participation is evaluated twice annually. All members in good standing can choose to exempt themselves from RIT Housing Operations' housing lottery, thus guaranteeing housing on floor for the next academic year.
Each member must complete a Major Project every year. Many of the projects we feature on this web site are results of this policy. Major Projects, however, are not required to be technically oriented. Operations such as repainting the walls on floor, organizing huge House barbecues, and several popular karaoke nights have all been counted as major projects in the past.
Additionally, members must participate in the Freshman Project, a yearly fundraiser for charity, during their first year of membership. This helps to build strong relationships amongst all of your fellow first-year students, improves the general morale of House, and gives every new member an opportunity to establish him- or herself on floor.
Applications
We hope these words have given you a better taste of what you're in for when you apply to this establishment. If, after reading this, you feel you're the type of person House is after, accepted students should fill out the Special Interest Housing application on the Housing Operations website. If you have any trouble, please contact Housing Operations.
Please feel free to email the Eval Director with any questions concerning membership.
